Tomato Hush Puppies
Tomato hush puppies are crispy, savory bites featuring tangy stewed tomatoes and onions, perfect as a side for seafood lovers seeking a flavorful Southern appetizer.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the mashed stewed tomatoes, minced onion, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Gradually add self-rising flour until a stiff batter is formed.
- Drop spoonfuls of batter into hot fat and fry until golden brown.
- Drain on paper towels before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider adding herbs like oregano or basil to enhance the flavor profile. If you're out of self-rising flour, you can make your own by combining all-purpose flour with baking powder and salt. Ensure your oil is hot enough before frying to achieve a crispy exterior. Serve these hush puppies with a dipping sauce for an extra kick.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your tomato hush puppies warm as an appetizer or snack, paired with a zesty dipping sauce or alongside a fresh salad. They complement dishes like Garden Soup beautifully, making for a comforting meal. You can also serve them with a side of candied peanuts for a sweet contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store 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 (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as it may make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tomato Hush Puppies contains roughly 819 calories, with 23g protein, 164g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (56% of the Daily Value), protein (46% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (22% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 6g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes, but you'll need to cook them down and puree them to match the consistency of stewed tomatoes. About 4-5 medium fresh tomatoes should suffice. This adjustment may alter the flavor slightly, so adjust your seasonings accordingly.
How can I make these hush puppies spicier?
To add some heat, incorporate diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper into the batter. You can also serve them with a spicy dipping sauce, giving you the option to control the spice level based on your preference.
What can I serve these hush puppies with?
These hush puppies pair excellently with a variety of dishes. Try them with a refreshing Potato-Fiddlehead Salad or as a side to grilled meats. They also make a great snack alongside a beer or a homemade dipping sauce for a casual gathering.
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).