Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 210kcal
Picture this: a warm summer evening, the grill sizzling with your favorite BBQ. The taste of smoky ribs lingers in the air, making your mouth water. What could complete this scene? You guessed it—hush puppies!
These crispy, golden balls are the perfect sidekick to any Southern feast. The best part? They’re super quick to whip up and will have your guests diving in for seconds. So, let’s set the stage for your next gathering with my go-to hush puppy recipe that has everyone raving.
Hush puppies are a beloved staple of Southern cuisine, often served alongside fried fish or grilled meats. These savory little bites are made from cornmeal and other simple ingredients, delivering a delightful crunch with every bite.
Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply craving comfort food, hush puppies are an excellent choice. Trust me when I say that once you try this recipe, you’ll want to make them regularly.
The best hush puppy recipe combines the rich, hearty taste of cornmeal with just the right blend of spices and a hint of sweetness. Traditionally, they are deep-fried until golden brown and have a soft, dense interior that makes them satisfying and perfect for dipping. This recipe stands out because it balances flavor and texture impeccably, giving you that crispy exterior while staying moist inside.
One reason you’ll adore this hush puppy recipe is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create something truly special without feeling overwhelmed. Aside from being charmingly easy, these hush puppies are incredibly versatile. You can serve them with various dishes, or simply enjoy them on their own. They make a wonderful appetizer and can be prepped ahead of time for your gatherings. Plus, everyone will love how they pack a flavor punch without needing a ton of ingredients!
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these delicious hush puppies:
- 1 cup cornmeal (trust me, this is the foundation of great texture)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (to balance the cornmeal)
- 1 tablespoon sugar (to add a hint of sweetness)
- ½ teaspoon baking soda (for that glorious rise)
- ½ teaspoon baking powder (yep, more lift!)
- ¼ teaspoon Cajun seasoning (or Creole for an extra kick)
- ¼ teaspoon salt (always a must)
- ⅛ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (adds depth)
- ½ cup milk (room temperature to mix well)
- ½ tablespoon white vinegar (this adds lightness)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for the wet mixture)
- 1 large egg (room temperature)
- 3 tablespoons finely grated onion (for flavor)
- Oil for frying (canola, vegetable, or peanut work wonders)
- Optional: 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives (adds a pop of flavor and color)
Ingredients From : smalltownwoman.com
Making hush puppies can look tricky, but I promise, it's easier than you think. Follow these steps, and you’ll have golden goodies in no time.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cornmeal, all-purpose flour, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Whisk these dry ingredients together until well blended. This step ensures that the flavors are evenly distributed.
In a separate medium-sized bowl, add the milk and vinegar. Let this sit for about 5 minutes. This helps to create a lovely, tangy flavor. Next, whisk in the vegetable oil, along with the egg, and the grated onion until everything is nicely combined.
Now, pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Mix gently, just until everything is combined. Don't overmix! You want to keep all that fluffiness in your batter.
In a Dutch oven or a heavy skillet, heat about 1½ inches of oil until it reaches 365 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature is key to achieving a beautifully crisp exterior.
Using two small spoons, scoop a rounded portion of the batter onto one spoon and gently push it off with the second spoon into the hot oil. Fry the hush puppies for 3 to 5 minutes, turning them occasionally until they are golden brown and floating up to the surface.
Once you’ve reached that glorious golden color, carefully remove the hush puppies from the oil with a slotted spoon. Drain them on paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Serve them hot for the best experience!
- Oil Temperature: Make sure your oil is hot enough. If it’s not, the hush puppies can absorb too much oil and become greasy.
- Flavor Additions: Consider adding minced garlic or diced jalapeños for an additional flavor boost.
- Serving Size: Adjust the size of the hush puppies based on your preference. Smaller ones make for great appetizers.
- Cooling: Try not to overcrowd the pot. This keeps the temperature consistent and helps achieve that crisp finish.
- Resting: If you have leftovers, let them cool before storing to keep them at their best.
Let the hush puppies cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. You can store them in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through. Microwaving is an option, but the texture won’t be as nice.
Here are some delicious dishes to pair your hush puppies with:
1. Fried Catfish: The crispy hush puppies balance perfectly with the tender and flaky fish.
2. Barbecue Ribs: A side of hush puppies adds a nice texture to your BBQ spread.
3. Southern Coleslaw: The creaminess of coleslaw complements the crunch of the hush puppies beautifully.
4. Shrimp or Fish Tacos: Crumbled hush puppies make for a fun garnish.
5. Chili: Who can resist that delightful contrast?
1. Corn Flour Instead of Cornmeal: If you want a finer texture, corn flour can work, but check the moisture content.
2. Whole Wheat Flour for All-Purpose: A healthier twist can be using whole wheat flour, although the texture will differ slightly.
3. Greek Yogurt for Milk: For a protein boost, substituting Greek yogurt thinned with a bit of water can add a tangy flavor.
4. Honey instead of Sugar: Using honey may give a unique sweetness, but be mindful of consistency.
5. Zucchini or Bell Pepper: Finely grated zucchini or peppers can add moisture and subtle flavor.
So there you have it! The best hush puppy recipe that brings joy to every meal. These easy bites are crisp on the outside and tender on the inside, stuffed with flavor and warmth. Perfect for any gathering or just a cozy dinner at home.
Let me know how yours turn out! Remember, there’s nothing quite like enjoying homemade hush puppies straight from the pot, so gather your ingredients and get cooking. You’re going to love them!
Hush puppies are a beloved staple of Southern cuisine, often served alongside fried fish or grilled meats. These savory little bites are made from cornmeal and other simple ingredients, delivering a delightful crunch with every bite.
Servings 4
- Oil Temperature: Make sure your oil is hot enough. If it’s not, the hush puppies can absorb too much oil and become greasy.
- Flavor Additions: Consider adding minced garlic or diced jalapeños for an additional flavor boost.
- Serving Size: Adjust the size of the hush puppies based on your preference. Smaller ones make for great appetizers.
- Cooling: Try not to overcrowd the pot. This keeps the temperature consistent and helps achieve that crisp finish.
- Resting: If you have leftovers, let them cool before storing to keep them at their best.
I’m Irene Adkins, a registered dietitian and creator of Delicious Meal Ideas. Growing up in Syracuse, NY, I developed a passion for simple, flavorful cooking in my grandmother’s kitchen. Through my blog, I share easy, healthy recipes that bring joy to everyday meals, making home cooking fun and accessible for everyone.