Southern Hush Puppies are a delightful Southern specialty that brings a burst of flavor to any meal. Made primarily from cornmeal, buttermilk, and onion, these crispy and fluffy bites are the perfect accompaniment to fried fish, barbecue, or even a hearty chili. They are a staple at cookouts and family gatherings, embodying the essence of Southern comfort food. In just 20 minutes, you can whip up a batch of these golden treats that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Why You’ll Love This Southern Hush Puppies
There are countless reasons to adore these Southern Cornmeal Fritters. First, they are incredibly easy to make, requiring just a handful of ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. Second, they offer a crispy exterior with a soft, fluffy interior, making each bite a delight. Third, they are versatile and can be served alongside various dishes, from Southern Fried Cornbread Balls to grilled meats. Fourth, they’re perfect for any meal, whether a backyard cookout or a cozy dinner at home. Fifth, they can easily be customized with ingredients like jalapeños or cheese for added flavor. Lastly, they are vegetarian-friendly, making them a great option for everyone!
Ingredients for Southern Hush Puppies
Gather these items:
- 1 cup yellow cornmeal
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup buttermilk
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup finely chopped onion
- Oil for frying
How to Make Southern Hush Puppies Step-by-Step
- Step 1: In a large bowl, mix together the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt until well combined.
- Step 2: Add in the buttermilk and egg, stirring until just mixed. Fold in the chopped onion last.
- Step 3: Heat 2 inches of oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350°F.
- Step 4: Drop tablespoon-sized scoops of batter into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan.
- Step 5: Fry for 2–3 minutes per side, turning as needed for even browning.
- Step 6: Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate and let cool slightly before serving.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Southern Hush Puppies
Keep these in mind:
- Ensure the oil is at the right temperature for frying to achieve that golden crisp.
- Don’t overmix the batter; a few lumps are perfectly fine and will add to the texture.
- For a fun twist, try adding chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick.
- Use a thermometer to maintain consistent oil temperatures during frying.
Best Ways to Serve Southern Hush Puppies
These delicious bites can be enjoyed in various ways. Serve them hot alongside a platter of fried fish for a classic Southern meal. They also pair wonderfully with barbecue, offering a delightful contrast to smoky meats. For a fun appetizer, serve Southern Hush Puppies with Onion and a tangy dipping sauce, such as ranch or spicy mayo. They also make a great snack for game day!
How to Store and Reheat Southern Hush Puppies
To store any leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy again, reheat them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to regain their crispy texture. This recipe is quick to prepare, making it ideal for meal prep or last-minute gatherings!
Frequently Asked Questions About Southern Hush Puppies
What’s the secret to perfect Southern Hush Puppies?
The secret lies in ensuring your oil is hot enough to fry them properly. This helps achieve that desirable crispy exterior while keeping the inside fluffy and light. Using the right ratio of cornmeal and flour also contributes to the overall texture.
Can I make Southern Hush Puppies ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the batter ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for a few hours. However, it’s best to fry them just before serving to maintain their crispiness.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Southern Hush Puppies?
Avoid overmixing the batter and make sure you don’t overcrowd the frying pan. Both can lead to uneven cooking and affect the texture. Also, be cautious with the oil temperature; too low can result in greasy hush puppies.
Variations of Southern Hush Puppies You Can Try
There are many delicious variations to explore! You can make Vegetarian Southern Hush Puppies by simply sticking to the basic recipe. For a twist, try adding jalapeños for a spicy version or cheese for a creamy texture. Air Fryer Southern Hush Puppies is another great option for a healthier cooking method that still delivers fantastic flavor.
For more delicious recipes, check out last recipes or explore Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage for a delightful pairing!
To learn more about the history and cultural significance of hush puppies, visit Southern Living.
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Crispy Southern Hush Puppies: 7 Easy Steps to Perfection
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Southern Hush Puppies are a crispy and fluffy Southern side dish made from cornmeal, buttermilk, and onion. This easy recipe brings authentic flavor and pairs perfectly with fried fish, barbecue, or chili.
Ingredients
- 1 cup yellow cornmeal
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup buttermilk
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup finely chopped onion
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix together the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt until well combined.
- Add in the buttermilk and egg, stirring until just mixed. Fold in the chopped onion last.
- Heat 2 inches of oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350°F.
- Drop tablespoon-sized scoops of batter into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan.
- Fry for 2–3 minutes per side, turning as needed for even browning.
- Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate and let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 hush puppy
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: Southern Hush Puppies, Cornmeal, Fried Side Dish
