Tarheel Hush Puppies
Crispy, golden hush puppies with a savory cornmeal flavor, perfect as a side or appetizer for Southern-inspired meals and gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all dry ingredients; add buttermilk.
- Stir and add water to achieve a stiff consistency.
- Heat oil to 375°F and fry spoonfuls until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, consider adding a bit of baking powder along with the pinch of soda. If you don't have buttermilk, you can substitute it with regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Make sure to keep the oil at the right temperature for frying; too low will make them greasy, while too high can cause burning. These hush puppies are a great accompaniment to dishes like Scampi Oreganato.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Tarheel Hush Puppies hot, ideally alongside fried fish or barbecue for a truly Southern experience. They also pair beautifully with a side of coleslaw or pickles to add a refreshing contrast. For a fun twist, try them with a dipping sauce like spicy remoulade or honey mustard.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover hush puppies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tarheel Hush Puppies contains roughly 141 calories, with 5g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is a good source of calcium (13% of the Daily Value) and protein (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1914mg per serving (83% 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 cover it and store it in the refrigerator. However, for the best results, it's ideal to fry them fresh to maintain their texture and flavor.
What type of oil is best for frying?
Peanut oil is highly recommended for frying hush puppies due to its high smoke point and neutral flavor. However, you can also use vegetable oil or canola oil if preferred. Just ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the batter.
Can I add other ingredients to the hush puppies?
Absolutely! You can mix in diced jalapeños for a spicy kick, or add shredded cheese for extra flavor. Just be mindful of the moisture content, as too many wet ingredients can affect the 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).