Description
Classic Southern hush puppies are crispy, golden-fried cornmeal balls made with buttermilk and a touch of onion and spices. Perfect as a side dish or appetizer, these savory treats are easy to prepare and delicious served warm with honey butter or alongside fried fish.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup yellow cornmeal
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp sugar
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
Wet Ingredients
- ¾ cup buttermilk
- 1 large egg
Additional Flavorings
- ½ small onion, finely minced (about ¼ cup)
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh chives or green onions (optional)
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, sugar, and cayenne pepper if using to create the base for the batter.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk the buttermilk and egg until smooth and well combined.
- Make the Batter: Stir the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients just until moistened—avoid overmixing to keep the hush puppies tender.
- Add Onions and Chives: Fold in the finely minced onion and chopped chives or green onions if using, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.
- Rest the Batter: Let the batter rest for 10 minutes to let the cornmeal absorb moisture and flavors meld while you heat the oil.
- Heat Oil: In a deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C), ensuring it is sufficiently hot before frying.
- Fry the Hush Puppies: Carefully drop heaping tablespoons of batter into the hot oil, a few at a time, being careful not to overcrowd the pan to maintain oil temperature. Fry for 2 to 3 minutes per side until golden brown and crisp.
- Drain and Serve: Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried hush puppies onto a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve warm with honey butter or alongside fried fish for a classic Southern experience.
Notes
- For extra flavor, sauté the onions briefly before adding them to the batter.
- Hush puppies are best served fresh, but can be reheated in an oven to regain crispiness.
- Perfect accompaniment to fried fish or served with honey butter for a sweet-savory combo.
