Texas Hush Puppies
Crispy and savory Texas hush puppies featuring sweet corn flavor, perfect as an appetizer or side dish for gatherings or casual family meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pour boiling water over the cornmeal and stir well.
- Chill the mixture for 1 hour.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of shortening in a heavy skillet.
Tips & Substitutions
For a crispy texture, ensure the oil is hot enough before frying the hush puppies; test by dropping a small amount of batter into the oil. If you prefer a healthier twist, consider replacing half of the shortening with unsweetened applesauce. If you don't have cream, milk can be used as a substitute, though it may alter the flavor slightly. This recipe is a great companion to American recipes like Country Ham Biscuits.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Texas hush puppies warm, ideally as a side dish to fried fish or shrimp for a classic Southern meal. They also pair wonderfully with a spicy dipping sauce or honey for a sweet contrast. For a complete meal, consider serving them alongside Salsa Potato Skins or other hearty appetizers.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover hush puppies can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until they are warmed through and regain some crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as this can make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Texas Hush Puppies contains roughly 260 calories, with 2g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (26% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2307mg per serving (100% 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 freeze hush puppies?
Yes, you can freeze hush puppies! After frying, let them cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from the freezer in the oven for best results.
What oil is best for frying hush puppies?
Peanut oil is ideal for frying hush puppies because of its high smoke point and ability to impart a subtle flavor. However, vegetable oil or canola oil can also be used as they are neutral and work well for frying. Just ensure the oil is heated to around 350°F (175°C) before adding the batter.
Can I make hush puppies without eggs?
Absolutely! You can substitute the egg with a flaxseed meal or chia seed mixture (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal or chia seeds mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg) to bind the ingredients. This makes the recipe suitable for those following vegetarian recipes or with egg allergies.
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).