Hush Puppies

Growing up in the South, Hush Puppies were a staple at every family gathering and backyard barbecue. The golden, crispy exterior gave way to a soft, fluffy interior, bursting with flavor. I remember the tantalizing aroma wafting through the air as my grandmother would fry them up in her cast iron skillet, occasionally sneaking one off the plate before they were even served. These little cornmeal balls brought everyone together, and there’s something about their warmth that feels like home. Each bite is a reminder of summer days spent with family, laughter echoing around the picnic table. Whether served alongside fried fish or as a snack on their own, Hush Puppies never fail to bring joy and satisfaction. I challenge you to make these at home and experience the magic for yourself!

Main Ingredients for Hush Puppies

The ingredients for Hush Puppies are incredibly simple yet essential for achieving that signature flavor and texture. You’ll find that each component plays a vital role in creating a mouthwatering bite. The combination of cornmeal and flour ensures that the batter has the right consistency, while the buttermilk adds a subtle tang that complements the sweetness of sugar.

• Cornmeal: The star ingredient, providing the classic base and texture that makes Hush Puppies so beloved.
• All-purpose flour: Helps bind the mixture and gives a lightness to the finished product.
• Sugar: A touch of sweetness balances the flavors and enhances the overall taste.
• Baking powder: Acts as a leavening agent, ensuring that the Hush Puppies are fluffy and light.
• Baking soda: Works with the acidic ingredients like buttermilk to create a perfect rise.
• Salt: Essential for enhancing the flavors of all the ingredients.
• Egg: Adds richness and helps bind the batter together.
• Buttermilk: Contributes to a tender texture and slight tang; you can even substitute sour milk if needed.
• Onion: Finely chopped for a burst of flavor that elevates the whole dish.
• Vegetable oil: For frying, critical for achieving that crispy exterior.

Making Hush Puppies

Making Hush Puppies is easier than you might think, and the end result is well worth it! Follow these steps for a delicious treat that will have everyone asking for your secret recipe.

1. In a medium bowl, stir together the first six ingredients: cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Make a well in the center of the mixture, creating space for the wet ingredients.
2. In a small bowl, combine the next three ingredients: egg, buttermilk, and onion. Beat together until fully incorporated.
3. Add the egg mixture all at once to the flour mixture. Stir just until moistened; be careful not to overmix. The batter should be lumpy, which is the perfect consistency for Hush Puppies.
4. In a 3-quart saucepan or deep fryer, heat about 2 inches (5 cm) of vegetable oil to 375°F (190°C). It’s essential to get the oil hot enough for proper frying; otherwise, your Hush Puppies might absorb too much oil and become greasy.
5. Using a slightly rounded tablespoon, drop the batter into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry three or four at a time to maintain the oil temperature.
6. Fry the Hush Puppies for about 3 minutes or until golden brown, turning them once for even cooking. You’ll know they’re done when they look beautifully golden and rise to the surface of the oil.
7. Once golden, carefully remove them from the oil using a slotted spoon. Drain them on paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
8. Serve warm. Enjoy them fresh out of the fryer for the best texture and flavor!

Tips for Success

When making Hush Puppies, keep these tips in mind for the best results!

• Storage: Store leftover Hush Puppies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For the best texture, reheat them in the oven instead of the microwave.
• Freezing: Yes, you can freeze Hush Puppies! Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can last up to 2 months.
• Pairing: These are fantastic alongside fried fish or as part of a Southern-style spread. Try them with a side of spicy remoulade for an extra kick!
• Serving Size: Aim for about 2 to 3 Hush Puppies per person, depending on what you’re serving them with.
• Adjusting Flavor: Don’t hesitate to tweak the seasonings to match your taste. Adding herbs or spices can elevate the flavor profile.
• Fresh Ingredients: For the best taste, use fresh ingredients, especially the onion and buttermilk.

How to Enjoy Hush Puppies

There are countless ways to enjoy Hush Puppies, making them a versatile addition to any meal.

• Perfect Side Dish: Serve them alongside fried fish, shrimp, or chicken for a classic Southern meal.
• Snack Time: Enjoy them as a tasty snack with your favorite dipping sauce, such as tartar sauce or remoulade.
• Appetizers: These are excellent as appetizers at parties. Just place them on a platter with some condiments for guests to enjoy.
• Casual Dinners: They work wonderfully for casual weeknight dinners or family gatherings, adding a fun and flavorful touch.
• Seasonal Celebrations: Hush Puppies can elevate any festive gathering, from summer cookouts to holiday feasts, bringing everyone together.
• Leftover Creativity: Use any leftovers in a breakfast hash with eggs or as a side for brunch with a salad.

FAQ

Conclusion

In conclusion, Hush Puppies are a beloved comfort food that brings warmth to any gathering. Their crispy exterior and fluffy interior make them irresistible, and their versatility allows them to shine at any meal. I encourage you to try making them for your next family gathering or casual dinner. You won’t regret it, and I promise they’ll become a favorite in your home!

Hush Puppies

The ultimate comfort food, Hush Puppies are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. These delightful cornmeal balls are perfect for parties, barbecues, or a cozy snack at home. With their easy preparation and delicious flavor, you’ll want to whip up a batch tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 3 minutes mins

Total Time 18 minutes mins

Servings: 14 balls

Course: Side Dishes

Cuisine: American

Calories: 90

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 cup Cornmeal
• 1/4 cup All-purpose flour
• 2 tsp Sugar
• 1/4 tsp Baking powder
• 1/4 tsp Baking soda
• 1/2 tsp Salt
• 1 large Egg
• 1/2 cup Buttermilk
• 1 small Onion
• as needed Vegetable oil for frying

Equipment

• Skillet
• Frying Pan
• Wooden Spoon
• Chef's Knife
• Mixing Bowl

Method

 

1. In a medium bowl, stir together the first six ingredients: Cornmeal, All-purpose flour, Sugar, Baking powder, Baking soda, and Salt. Make a well in the center of the mixture.
2. In a small bowl, combine the next three ingredients: Egg, Buttermilk, and Onion. Beat together until fully incorporated.
3. Add the egg mixture all at once to the flour mixture. Stir just until moistened; the batter should be lumpy.
4. In a 3-quart saucepan or deep fryer, heat about 2 inches (5 cm) of Vegetable oil to 375°F (190°C).
5. Using a slightly rounded tablespoon, drop the batter into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
6. Fry the Hush Puppies for about 3 minutes or until golden brown, turning them once for even cooking.
7. Carefully remove them from the oil using a slotted spoon. Drain on paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
8. Serve warm. Enjoy them fresh out of the fryer!

Notes

• Tip 1: Store leftover Hush Puppies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Tip 2: You can freeze Hush Puppies! Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer them to a freezer bag.
• Tip 3: These are fantastic alongside fried fish or as part of a Southern-style spread.
• Tip 4: Aim for about 2 to 3 Hush Puppies per person, depending on what you’re serving them with.
• Tip 5: Feel free to tweak the seasonings to match your taste.

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Meet Margot Vance

Founding Savor Feasts was my way of celebrating the art of generous cooking. I believe that food should be abundant, flavorful, and memorable. I personally cook, test, and photograph our recipes to ensure they bring a sense of occasion to your table, whether it is a simple dinner or a grand holiday celebration.