Jalapeño Cheddar Hushpuppies – Page 2

Instructions

1. Prepare the Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine the dry ingredients: cornmeal, flour, baking powder, salt, garlic powder, smoked paprika (if using), and sugar. Whisk to mix evenly.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients: eggs and buttermilk.
Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the batter dense.
Fold in the cheddar cheese, jalapeños, and green onions, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

2. Heat the Oil

In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer, heat the vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to maintain the temperature, as consistent heat is key for evenly cooked hushpuppies.

3. Fry the Hushpuppies

Using a spoon or small cookie scoop, carefully drop spoonfuls of batter into the hot oil. Work in batches to avoid overcrowding the pot.
Fry for 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally, until the hushpuppies are golden brown and crispy.
Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked hushpuppies to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

4. Serve and Enjoy

Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce, such as spicy aioli, ranch dressing, or honey butter.

Tips for Perfect Hushpuppies

Adjust the Heat: If you prefer a milder flavor, remove the seeds from the jalapeños before chopping. For extra heat, leave the seeds in or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the batter.
Cheese Choices: Sharp cheddar works best for its bold flavor, but you can experiment with pepper jack, gouda, or your favorite melty cheese.
Consistency Matters: The batter should be thick but spoonable. If it’s too thick, add a splash of buttermilk. If too thin, add a bit more cornmeal.
Test First: Fry a small test batch to ensure the oil temperature is correct and the batter holds together.

Why You’ll Love These Hushpuppies

Bold Flavors: The cheddar and jalapeño combination adds depth and excitement to the classic hushpuppy.
Versatile: Perfect as a snack, side dish, or party appetizer, these hushpuppies fit any occasion.
Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and minimal prep, you can whip up these hushpuppies in under 30 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

Pair Jalapeño Cheddar Hushpuppies with:

Seafood dishes like fried catfish or shrimp.
Barbecue classics such as pulled pork or smoked brisket.
A fresh, crisp green salad for balance.
A cold, refreshing beer or lemonade to cool off the spicy kick.

Conclusion

Jalapeño Cheddar Hushpuppies are a crowd-pleasing recipe that combines the comforting taste of traditional Southern cooking with bold, modern flavors. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, preparing a family meal, or simply indulging your snack cravings, these hushpuppies are sure to be a hit.

So gather your ingredients, heat up your oil, and get ready to enjoy a crispy, cheesy, and slightly spicy treat that’ll have everyone reaching for seconds!

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