Squash Hush Puppies
Crispy, golden squash hush puppies with a savory onion flavor, perfect as a side or snack for gatherings, offering a delightful Southern-inspired treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Stew the chopped squash with the chopped onion until tender.
- Drain the squash and onion mixture well.
- In a bowl, combine the drained squash and onion, then add the egg, margarine, salt, and pepper, stirring to mix.
- Add the Mexican corn bread mix to the squash mixture and stir until well combined.
- Drop spoonfuls of the batter into hot oil and fry until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider incorporating spices like cumin or chili powder into the mixture. If yellow squash isn't available, zucchini can be a great substitute. To achieve a lighter texture, you might use a mix of all-purpose flour and cornmeal instead of the corn bread mix. Make sure the oil is hot enough to prevent the hush puppies from absorbing too much oil while frying.
Serving Suggestions
These squash hush puppies make a delightful appetizer or snack and pair beautifully with dipping sauces like ranch or spicy aioli. For a complete meal, serve alongside grilled meats or a fresh salad. They also complement dishes like Buffet Asparagus Casserole or can be enjoyed on their own as part of a vegetarian spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as this can make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Squash Hush Puppies contains roughly 549 calories, with 9g protein, 107g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (26% of the Daily Value) and calcium (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2156mg per serving (94% 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 these hush puppies ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the batter in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. However, it's best to fry them just before serving to maintain their crispy texture. If you have leftovers, follow storage tips to keep them fresh.
What type of oil is best for frying?
For frying hush puppies, use an oil with a high smoke point such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil. These oils will help achieve that perfect golden brown color and crispiness while minimizing the risk of burning.
Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes, you can bake the hush puppies for a healthier alternative. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), drop spoonfuls of batter onto a greased baking sheet, and bake for about 15-20 minutes or until golden brown. They may not be as crispy as fried versions but will still be delicious.
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).