Spiced Hush Puppies
Spiced hush puppies are light, flavorful fried cornmeal balls with a hint of garlic and onion, perfect as a snack or appetizer for gatherings and casual meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Rub the inside of the bowl with crushed garlic.
- Combine cornmeal, flour, baking powder, and salt in the bowl.
- Add beaten eggs and enough milk to form a stiff batter.
- Stir in grated onion until well mixed.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate until the batter becomes spongy.
- Heat shortening to 375°F (190°C).
- Drop batter from a tablespoon into hot shortening and fry for 4 to 5 minutes until golden brown.
- Drain on absorbent paper and serve warm.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier version, consider adding jalapeños or cayenne pepper to the batter. If you don’t have white cornmeal, yellow cornmeal can be used as a substitute. To enhance the flavor, try using garlic powder instead of fresh garlic. Ensure the batter is not too runny; adjust the milk gradually until you achieve the right consistency for frying.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these spiced hush puppies warm as a delightful side dish to fried fish or barbecue. They also pair beautifully with a tangy dipping sauce, such as remoulade or a zesty tartar sauce. For a complete meal, consider serving them alongside a fresh salad or with dishes like No Fat Cornbread for a hearty American meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover hush puppies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through, ensuring they regain their crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as this can make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spiced Hush Puppies contains roughly 143 calories, with 3g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2024mg per serving (88% 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 the batter ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the batter a few hours in advance. Just remember to keep it covered in the refrigerator until you're ready to fry. This allows the flavors to meld, and the batter will become spongy, which is essential for the perfect texture.
What can I do if my hush puppies are not cooking evenly?
If your hush puppies are browning too quickly on the outside but remain raw inside, try lowering the frying temperature slightly. Maintaining an oil temperature of around 375°F (190°C) is crucial for even cooking. Fry in smaller batches to ensure they cook evenly and have enough space in the oil.
Can I freeze the hush puppies?
Yes, you can freeze cooked hush puppies. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. To reheat, bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) until heated through and crispy, about 15-20 minutes.
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).