Tar Heel Hush Puppies
Crispy, golden hush puppies with a savory corn flavor, perfect as a snack or appetizer for gatherings and comfort food lovers alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Stir the cornmeal, egg, salt, sugar, and buttermilk together, adding water until the mixture reaches a thick consistency.
- Drop spoonfuls of the batter into hot oil, preferably Duke's peanut oil, heated to 375°F.
- Deep fry until golden brown and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes per batch.
- Remove from oil and drain on paper towels before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, ensure the oil is at the correct temperature to prevent soggy hush puppies. If you don't have buttermilk, you can substitute with regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. For a twist, consider adding chopped jalapeños or corn kernels to the batter for extra flavor. This recipe also pairs beautifully with Apple Griddle Cakes for a delightful brunch spread.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these delicious hush puppies alongside fried fish or shrimp for a classic Southern meal. They also make a great appetizer when paired with a spicy dipping sauce. For a complete spread, consider serving them with Garlic Bundt Bread or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any 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 for about 10 minutes to restore their crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as they can become soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tar Heel Hush Puppies contains roughly 131 calories, with 4g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (18% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1100mg per serving (48% 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 in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. However, for the best texture, it's recommended to fry them fresh right before serving.
What type of oil is best for frying hush puppies?
Duke's peanut oil is preferred for its high smoke point and flavor, but you can also use canola or vegetable oil if needed. Just ensure the oil is hot enough (375°F) before frying to achieve that perfect golden crust.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, to make gluten-free hush puppies, substitute the fine corn meal with a gluten-free cornmeal blend. Ensure that all other ingredients, especially the baking powder or soda, are also gluten-free for a safe and tasty dish.
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).