Southern Fried Hush Puppies
Golden, crispy hush puppies with a savory cornmeal flavor, perfect as a side dish or snack for Southern comfort food lovers seeking a crunchy bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sift cornmeal, flour, baking powder, garlic salt, and salt together in a bowl.
- Add beaten egg and milk to the dry ingredients.
- Stir until well mixed and set aside for 5 minutes.
- Add more milk if needed to reach desired consistency.
- Drop small spoonfuls of batter into hot oil in a skillet.
- Fry until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best texture, use a mix of fine and coarse cornmeal. If you don't have garlic salt, you can substitute with regular salt and add minced garlic to the batter. Make sure the oil is hot enough (around 350°F) before frying to achieve a crispy exterior. For a twist, consider adding chopped green onions or jalapeños for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these hush puppies warm alongside fried catfish or shrimp for a classic Southern meal. They also pair beautifully with coleslaw or a spicy dipping sauce. For a complete spread, consider including sides like the Best Ever Rum Cake for dessert or a fresh salad to balance the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover hush puppies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in an oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Southern Fried Hush Puppies contains roughly 944 calories, with 10g protein, 82g carbohydrates, and 65g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 776mg per serving (34% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make hush puppies ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the batter ahead of time and refrigerate it for a few hours. However, it's best to fry them just before serving for the freshest taste and texture. If you do fry them in advance, reheat them in the oven for optimal crispness.
What type of oil is best for frying hush puppies?
Vegetable oil or peanut oil are great choices for frying hush puppies due to their high smoke points. Avoid using olive oil, as it has a lower smoke point and can affect the flavor and texture of the hush puppies.
Can I add other ingredients to the batter?
Absolutely! You can customize your hush puppies by adding ingredients like shredded cheese, diced bell peppers, or even corn for a touch of sweetness. Just be mindful of the moisture content to maintain the right batter consistency.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).