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Southern Hush Puppies

Southern Hush Puppies

Southern hush puppies are delightful, deep-fried cornmeal fritters that are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. They're a classic Southern dish, often served as a side with fried fish or alongside a hearty meal. These bite-sized treats are perfect for gatherings and impress everyone with their flavor.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Appetizer
Cuisine Southern
Servings 4 People
Calories 180 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 mixing bowl
  • 1 whisk or spoon
  • 1 deep fryer or large heavy pot
  • 1 slotted spoon
  • 1 measuring cups
  • 1 measuring spoons
  • 1 baking sheet lined with paper towels

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup cornmeal
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper Optional for heat.
  • ½ cup buttermilk
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • enough for frying Oil Oil for frying Enough for about 2 inches deep in the pot.

Instructions
 

  • In a mixing bowl, combine the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, salt, sugar, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir well to blend all the dry ingredients.
  • In another bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and egg until well combined.
  • Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
  • Fold in the chopped onion gently until evenly distributed in the batter.
  • Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot over medium heat. The oil should be hot enough that a small drop of batter sizzles when added (around 365°F or 185°C).
  • Using a spoon or small ice cream scoop, drop spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pot.
  • Fry the hush puppies for about 3-4 minutes or until they are golden brown on all sides. Turn occasionally for even cooking.
  • Use a slotted spoon to remove the hush puppies from the oil and transfer them to a baking sheet lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
  • Serve warm as a side dish or appetizer.

Notes

For added flavor, you can mix in chopped jalapeños or herbs like chives or parsley.
Ensure the oil temperature is correct; too hot can burn the hush puppies, while too cool can result in greasy ones.
Hush puppies are best enjoyed freshly made but can be reheated in an oven to maintain their crispiness.