Tasty Hush Puppies

Prep: 10 min Cook: 10 min Cuisine: American

Crispy, golden hush puppies with a savory cornmeal flavor, perfect as a snack or side dish. Ideal for gatherings, they are quick to make and universally loved.

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Ingredients

  • 1 c. cornmeal
  • 3 tsp. baking powder
  • onion to taste
  • milk enough to moisten
  • 1/2 c. flour
  • 1 tsp. sugar
  • 1 or 2 eggs

Instructions

  1. Mix all ingredients together in a bowl until you achieve a fairly thick consistency.
  2. Drop by tablespoons into boiling shortening (Crisco) and deep fry until golden brown and crispy.
  3. Serve immediately.

Tips & Substitutions

For added flavor, consider finely chopping herbs like chives or parsley and mixing them into the batter. If you don't have milk, water or a plant-based milk can be used as substitutes. Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to achieve that perfect crispy texture. For a variation, try adding corn kernels or diced jalapeños for a spicy kick. These hush puppies are a delightful addition to any Southern meal.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these tasty hush puppies as a side dish with fried fish or shrimp for a classic Southern meal. They pair beautifully with a bowl of spicy gumbo or a fresh salad. For a fun twist, try them alongside a sweet dipping sauce like honey or maple syrup. They also make a great snack at gatherings, perfect for dipping into your favorite sauces.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover hush puppies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to restore their crispiness. Alternatively, you can reheat them in an air fryer for a few minutes for an extra crunchy finish. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Tasty Hush Puppies contains roughly 207 calories, with 3g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 672mg per serving (29% of the Daily Value).

207 kcal 10% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 3.3g 7% DV
Total Fat 7.2g 9% DV
Carbs 33.2g 12% DV
Fiber 1.1g 4% DV
Sugar 13.1g 26% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 671.7mg 29% DV
Potassium 123.6mg 3% DV
Cholesterol 4.7mg 2% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 47.8mcg 5% DV
Vitamin C 5.7mg 6% DV
Vitamin D 0.4mcg 2% DV
Calcium 380.2mg 29% DV
Iron 2.5mg 14% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal
Contains Milk Egg Wheat/Gluten

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 without eggs?

Yes, you can make hush puppies without eggs by using a flaxseed meal or chia seed mixture as a binding agent. Mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal or chia seeds with 2.5 tablespoons of water and let it sit until it thickens. This substitute will help maintain the texture of the hush puppies.

How do I know when the hush puppies are done frying?

Hush puppies are done frying when they are golden brown and float to the top of the oil. This usually takes about 3-4 minutes per batch. If you’re unsure, you can cut one open to check if it’s cooked through – the inside should be moist but fully set.

Can I freeze hush puppies?

Yes, you can freeze hush puppies. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake from frozen in the oven until heated through.

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).

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