Directions to Follow
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and black pepper.
- Gently fold in the finely chopped onion to the dry ingredients.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, egg, and melted butter until the mixture is smooth.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay!
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C).
- Using a spoon or small ice cream scoop, carefully drop spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil, working in batches to avoid overcrowding.
- Fry the hush puppies for 2-3 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and are cooked through, turning them occasionally for even cooking.
- Once cooked, use a slotted spoon to remove them from the oil and transfer to paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Serve warm for the best flavor!
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Hush puppies are incredibly versatile! Serve them warm alongside crispy fried fish, chicken, or pulled pork for a classic Southern meal. They also make a fantastic snack on their own, perfect for dips like tartar sauce, ranch dressing, or even hot sauce for those who enjoy a spicy kick. For a fun twist, try stuffing them with cheese or herbs before frying!
How to Store & Freeze
To keep your leftover hush puppies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to extend their shelf life, you can freeze them. Place cooked and cooled hush puppies in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to three months. To reheat, bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Helpful Cooking Tips
- Don’t Overmix: To keep your hush puppies light and fluffy, mix until just combined.
- Test the Oil: Drop a small bit of batter into the oil; if it sizzles and bubbles, you’re ready to fry.
- Batch Frying: Fry in small batches to ensure even cooking and prevent the temperature of the oil from dropping too much.
Creative Twists
While the classic recipe is always a hit, consider experimenting with flavors! Try adding crumbled bacon, chopped jalapeños, or even sweet corn for a variation on the traditional flavor. You can also replace the buttermilk with a dairy-free option, such as almond or coconut milk, for a vegan version.
Common Questions
How long does it take to prepare hush puppies?
From start to finish, you can prepare these hush puppies in about 30 minutes, making them a quick option for unexpected guests.
Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?
Absolutely! Regular milk will work fine, but if you have it, try adding a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to a half-cup of milk to mimic buttermilk.
How should I store leftovers?
Store leftover hush puppies in an airtight container at room temperature for 1–2 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a freezer bag, and they’ll keep for about three months.
Enjoy making these delectable homemade hush puppies! They are a delightful addition to your culinary repertoire, sure to please family and friends alike.
