Hush puppies, those little golden nuggets of fried cornbread, are a staple of Southern cuisine. Their crispy exterior gives way to a soft, savory interior that’s simply irresistible.
This recipe will guide you through every step of making perfect hush puppies at home, from choosing the right cornmeal to achieving that perfect golden-brown crust. Whether you’re a seasoned fryer or a kitchen novice, you’ll find this recipe easy to follow and the results absolutely delicious.
Get ready to impress your family and friends with a taste of Southern comfort food!
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 cup yellow cornmeal
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Optional Ingredients for Extra Flavor
- 1 tablespoon sugar (for a touch of sweetness)
- 1/4 cup chopped jalapeno pepper (for a spicy kick)
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for cheesy goodness)
Tools You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Slotted spoon or spider strainer
- Paper towels
- Large skillet or Dutch oven
- Candy thermometer (optional, but recommended)
Let’s Get Cooking: Step-by-Step Guide
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Combine dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and pepper.
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Whisk in wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, milk, and egg until well combined.
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Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, whisking until just combined. Do not overmix.
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Add flavor enhancers: Stir in the chopped onion. If you’re using any of the optional ingredients, add them now.
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Let the batter rest: Cover the bowl and let the batter rest for at least 15 minutes. This allows the cornmeal to absorb the liquids and create a lighter texture.
