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Southern Hush Puppies: A Crispy, Golden Bite of Southern Comfort
If you’ve ever visited the South or indulged in Southern cuisine, you’ve probably come across hush puppies—those crispy, golden-fried balls of cornmeal perfection that are the epitome of Southern comfort food. While they may be humble in appearance, these savory treats are packed with flavor and a true staple of Southern cooking.
Whether served alongside a plate of fried fish, crispy fried chicken, or just as a snack on their own, Southern hush puppies never fail to deliver that irresistible crunch and soft, slightly sweet interior. Here’s everything you need to know about these delightful morsels and how to make them at home!
What Are Hush Puppies?
Hush puppies are deep-fried cornmeal fritters, typically seasoned with a mix of onions, garlic, and sometimes even a hint of cayenne pepper for a mild kick. They get their name from an old Southern tradition—hunters and fishermen would fry up the dough and toss it to their dogs to “hush” them during mealtime. Hence, the name “hush puppies.”
The beauty of hush puppies lies in their crispy outer shell and soft, moist center, which makes for the perfect balance of texture. The cornmeal gives them a light, slightly sweet flavor, while the seasonings elevate their taste to something special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 cup cornmeal (preferably stone-ground for a more authentic texture)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a bit of heat)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 egg
- 1 cup buttermilk (for richness and tang)
- 2 tablespoons milk (you can adjust as needed)
- Vegetable oil, for frying (canola or peanut oil works well)
How to Make Southern Hush Puppies
Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until evenly mixed.
Step 2: Add the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, milk, and egg until well combined. Gradually pour this wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring until you have a thick, slightly lumpy batter.
Step 3: Add the Onion
Fold in the finely chopped onion. This adds an extra layer of flavor and a little texture to the hush puppies, making them even more irresistible.
Step 4: Heat the Oil
In a large pot or deep fryer, heat about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. The oil should reach about 350°F (175°C). To test if the oil is hot enough, drop a small spoonful of batter into the oil—if it sizzles and rises to the surface, it’s rFor Complete Cooking STEPS Please Head On Over To Next Page Or Open button (>) and don’t forget to SHARE with your Facebook friendseady.
For Complete Cooking STEPS Please Head On Over To Next Page Or Open button (>) and don’t forget to SHARE with your Facebook friends
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