Hush Puppies Recipe

Name: Hush Puppies Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 cup cornmeal; ½ cup all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper; 1 cup buttermilk; 1 large egg; ½ cup finely chopped onions; ¼ cup chopped green onions; Oil for frying

Hush puppies are a classic Southern dish that makes for a perfect side or appetizer. These golden-brown, crispy morsels are made from a mixture of cornmeal, flour, and spices, then deep-fried to perfection. They’re wonderfully versatile and pair well with a variety of meals, making them a must-try for anyone looking to add a bit of Southern charm to their dining table.

Ingredients

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe yields about 4 servings. Preparation time is 15 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 20 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (about 3 hush puppies) contains approximately 200 calories, 10g fat, 25g carbohydrates, 2g protein, and 1g fiber. This is for one person.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

1. In a large bowl, combine 1 cup of cornmeal and ½ cup of all-purpose flour. 2. Stir in 1 tablespoon of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of salt, and ¼ teaspoon of cayenne pepper. 3. In another bowl, whisk together 1 cup of buttermilk and 1 large egg. 4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. 5. Fold in ½ cup of finely chopped onions and ¼ cup of chopped green onions. 6. Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 375°F (190°C). 7. Use a spoon to drop heaping tablespoons of batter into the hot oil. 8. Fry in batches until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. 9. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. 10. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.

Alternative Ingredients

If you prefer a healthier version, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour and use Greek yogurt mixed with a bit of milk instead of buttermilk. You can also add spices like garlic powder or chopped jalapeños for extra flavor.

Serving and Pairings

Hush puppies are delightful served with fried fish, barbecue, or as a standalone snack. Pair them with tartar sauce, remoulade, or a spicy aioli for a delicious dip.

Storage and 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 until heated through. They can be frozen, but it’s best to reheat them directly from the freezer.

Cooking Mistakes

Overmixing the batter can lead to tough hush puppies.
Not heating the oil enough can result in soggy puppies.
Frying too many at once can lower the oil temperature.
Using stale ingredients may affect flavor and texture.
Not draining excess oil after frying can make them greasy.

Helpful Tips

Always use cold buttermilk for better texture.
Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize flavor.
Try substituting cornmeal with polenta for a unique twist.
Ensure the oil is at the right temperature before frying.

FAQs

What are hush puppies made of?

Hush puppies are primarily made from cornmeal, flour, baking powder, salt, and spices. They often include chopped onions or green onions for added flavor.

Can hush puppies be baked instead of fried?

While traditionally fried, hush puppies can be baked at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, but the texture will differ from fried versions.

How do you know when hush puppies are done frying?

Hush puppies are done when they turn a golden brown color and float to the surface of the oil. Typically, this takes about 3-4 minutes.

Can I make hush puppies ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the batter ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. However, it’s best to fry them fresh for the best texture.

What can I serve with hush puppies?

Hush puppies are great with fried fish, shrimp, or barbecue dishes. They also pair well with dipping sauces like tartar or remoulade.

Conclusion

In conclusion, hush puppies are a delightful and easy dish to make, perfect for any gathering or meal. With their crispy exterior and soft, flavorful interior, they are sure to be a hit. Whether served as a side or a snack, they bring a taste of Southern comfort to your table.