Description
Hush Puppies are a classic Southern treat featuring crispy, golden-fried cornmeal batter studded with chopped onions and green bell peppers. Perfect as a side dish or snack, these savory bites bring a delightful crunch and a touch of sweetness that pairs wonderfully with seafood, barbecue, or comfort meals.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup yellow cornmeal
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup finely chopped green bell pepper
For Frying
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, mix together the yellow cornmeal, all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until evenly combined.
- Prepare Wet Mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk the buttermilk and lightly beaten egg together until smooth and thoroughly incorporated.
- Add Vegetables to Wet Mixture: Stir the finely chopped onion and green bell pepper into the buttermilk and egg mixture, ensuring the vegetables are evenly distributed.
- Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. The batter should remain thick and slightly lumpy; avoid overmixing to keep the hush puppies light.
- Heat Oil: Pour vegetable oil into a deep frying pan or skillet to a depth of about 2 inches. Heat over medium-high heat until the oil reaches 350°F (175°C), suitable for deep frying.
- Fry the Hush Puppies: Carefully drop spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil, working in batches to prevent overcrowding. Fry each batch for approximately 2-3 minutes per side until the hush puppies turn golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Drain Excess Oil: Using a slotted spoon, remove the hush puppies from the oil and let them drain on paper towels to absorb excess grease.
- Serve Warm: Enjoy the hush puppies warm as a savory side dish or a delightful snack.
Notes
- Ensure the oil temperature is steady at 350°F to achieve a perfect crispy exterior without absorbing too much oil.
- Do not overcrowd the frying pan to maintain the oil temperature and even cooking.
- If preferred, finely chopped jalapeños can be added for a spicy kick.
- Hush puppies are best served fresh but can be reheated in an oven to restore crispness.
