Delight in this delectable Southern classic that’s crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside.
Next month, I’ll be moving to South Carolina, where many deep-fried delicacies are passed around like candy. I won’t lie—I’m a little nervous because my body is simply not accustomed to fried food in general. But there are some treats, like these precious little hush puppies, that are too good to pass up. I mean, how can you resist the sweet and savory goodness of these tender little nuggets?
My future housemate loves fried food because he grew up in the South, and hush puppies have a special place in his heart. He says there’s something so nostalgic about them with a side of honey for dipping or with some BBQ chicken to make a full meal. I couldn’t agree more. After trying this recipe, you better believe we’ll be making it again and again. And once you give it a whirl yourself, you’ll understand why.
Where did the name come from?
Wondering where the name “hush puppies” originated? You’re not alone because there’s no single agreed-upon answer. One popular story claims that fishermen or hunters would toss bits of fried cornmeal to their dogs to keep them from barking and distracting their prey. They also fed them to their hungry dogs as treats while cooking their own dinner. Another tale says that when Confederate soldiers heard Union soldiers approaching, they would give their dogs pieces of fried cornmeal, while calling out “hush, puppy” and hoping to keep them quiet. While there’s no way to know if these legends are true or not, hush puppies are clearly here to stay. No fish fry or barbecue in the South would be complete without them!
How do I store leftovers?
Let your hush puppies cool to room temperature, and then transfer them to an airtight container. Refrigerate them for 2-3 days. For longer storage, put them in a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 2 months. Once thawed, you can reheat them in the oven or air fryer at 350°F for 5-10 minutes, until they’re crisp and sizzling again.
Similar recipes to try
If you’re craving similar flavors but without having to deep-fry, try some freshly baked Keto Buttermilk Cornbread or Maple-Bacon Cornbread Muffins. But if these dishes don’t tickle your fancy, and you want some Southern comfort food that can be a whole meal, try Southern Chicken And Dumplings.
Hush Puppies Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup yellow cornmeal
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 pinch black pepper
- 1/2 cup buttermilk at room temperature
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 large egg at room temperature
- 1/4 cup grated onion
- Vegetable oil for frying, enough to fill your pan about 1 1/2 inches deep
- Green onions chopped (for optional garnish)
- Preferred dipping sauce such as remoulade (optional)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and black pepper.
- In another bowl, combine the buttermilk, vegetable oil, egg, and grated onion.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a heavy skillet or Dutch oven to 370°F. Using two small spoons, gently drop rounded spoonfuls of batter into the hot oil.
- Fry for 2-4 minutes, until golden brown on all sides, turning as needed. Then, remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Garnish with green onions and serve with your favorite dipping sauce if desired.
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