These Mama’s Cornmeal Hush Puppies are the perfect balance of crispy exterior and soft, fluffy interior, offering a burst of flavor with every bite. The combination of cornmeal and seasonings gives them a distinct Southern flair, making them the ideal accompaniment to fried fish or as a tasty appetizer at your next gathering.
Whether you enjoy them with a drizzle of honey, a dash of hot sauce, or as they are, these hush puppies bring the warmth of Southern cooking to your kitchen. Serve them alongside a refreshing drink or your favorite dipping sauce, and you’ve got a treat that’s sure to delight.
Full Recipe:
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1 1/2 cups cornmeal
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1/2 cup all-purpose flour
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1 tablespoon baking powder
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1 teaspoon salt
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1 tablespoon sugar
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1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
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1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
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1/2 cup chopped onion
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1 cup buttermilk
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1 large egg
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Vegetable oil, for frying
Directions:
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In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, salt, sugar, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper.
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In a separate bowl, combine the chopped onion, buttermilk, and egg.
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Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. The batter should be thick and slightly lumpy.
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Heat about 3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C).
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Drop spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan.
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Fry the hush puppies for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown, turning them as needed to ensure even cooking.
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Remove from the oil and drain on paper towels.
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Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce or alongside seafood.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes
Kcal: 150 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
History and Origin
Hush puppies are a true Southern classic, with a history that dates back to the early days of American colonial cooking. The name “hush puppy” is believed to have originated from the practice of feeding fried cornmeal balls to hungry dogs to keep them quiet—hence the term “hush.” According to Southern folklore, fishermen would fry up these cornmeal balls and toss them to their dogs while cooking their catch, to keep the dogs from barking.
The recipe has evolved over time, but its roots in Southern cooking remain strong. Cornmeal, a staple in Southern kitchens, is the key ingredient in hush puppies. Early versions were often simple combinations of cornmeal and water, but over the years, ingredients like buttermilk, onions, garlic, and even seafood have been added to enhance the flavor.
While hush puppies are now enjoyed across the United States, particularly in the South, their association with Southern comfort food, particularly with fried fish or seafood, has made them a regional favorite.
Variations and Adaptations
Though the traditional hush puppy recipe is quite simple, there are countless variations across different regions and households. One of the most common twists involves the addition of seafood, such as shrimp or crab, which gives the hush puppies a flavorful boost. In some regions, they might also incorporate bell peppers, jalapeños, or fresh herbs like parsley or thyme to add a bit of zest.
Another popular variation involves the use of different types of cornmeal, such as fine, medium, or coarse-ground, which can affect the texture of the final product. Some cooks even experiment with adding cheese or hot sauce for extra flavor, or they may serve the hush puppies with a dipping sauce like ranch dressing, hot honey, or a spicy remoulade.
While Trisha Yearwood’s Mama’s Cornmeal Hush Puppies stick to the classic recipe, there’s no limit to how you can customize these golden delights to suit your taste. Whether you prefer them extra crispy or infused with a touch of heat, these hush puppies are endlessly adaptable.
Nutritional Information
Cornmeal hush puppies are undeniably delicious, but like many fried foods, they are best enjoyed in moderation. A typical serving of hush puppies contains about 150 calories per piece, but this can vary based on the size of the hush puppies and how much oil is absorbed during frying. They are mostly composed of carbohydrates from the cornmeal, with a moderate amount of fat due to frying.
Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information per serving (1 hush puppy):
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Calories: 150 kcal
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Carbohydrates: 25g
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Protein: 2g
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Fat: 6g
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Fiber: 2g
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Sugar: 2g
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Sodium: 300mg
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Cholesterol: 20mg
While hush puppies are a source of quick energy due to their carbohydrate content, they do not offer significant protein or micronutrients. However, cornmeal is rich in essential minerals such as magnesium, phosphorus, and potassium, which support bone health, muscle function, and hydration. Additionally, the buttermilk used in this recipe offers a small amount of calcium and vitamin D, both essential for bone health.
If you’re looking to make these hush puppies a bit lighter, you can experiment with baking them instead of deep frying, or you could try air frying to cut down on the oil. Substituting some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour could also add some extra fiber to the dish.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Hush puppies are typically served as a side dish, often accompanying fried fish, shrimp, or other Southern favorites like fried chicken. They’re perfect for dipping into sauces, making them a versatile snack or appetizer.
To complement the golden crispness of the hush puppies, try pairing them with a tangy dipping sauce like spicy ketchup, tartar sauce, or a creamy remoulade. A drizzle of honey can add a touch of sweetness that balances the savory flavors, while hot sauce offers an extra kick for those who like it spicy.
For a complete meal, serve these hush puppies alongside a fresh, zesty coleslaw, buttery cornbread, and perhaps a glass of iced tea. They’re also great at backyard barbecues or family gatherings, making them a crowd-pleaser for any casual occasion.
If you want to turn them into a full meal, pair them with some seafood gumbo or a hearty bowl of chowder. The hush puppies’ texture and flavor work wonderfully with soups and stews, offering a satisfying contrast to the rich broth.
Tips and Tricks for Success
To make sure your hush puppies come out perfectly crispy and golden every time, there are a few key tips to follow:
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Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mix the ingredients just until combined. Overworking the batter can lead to tough hush puppies, so be gentle and stop once you see a thick, slightly lumpy mixture.
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Maintain the Right Oil Temperature: The oil should be at a steady 350°F (175°C) for optimal frying. If the oil is too hot, the hush puppies will burn on the outside before cooking through. If it’s too cool, they will absorb too much oil and become greasy.
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Use a Spoon or Scoop: To ensure uniform size, use a spoon or ice cream scoop to drop the batter into the oil. This will help you fry evenly-sized hush puppies that cook at the same rate.
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Don’t Overcrowd the Fryer: Fry the hush puppies in batches to avoid crowding the pot. Overcrowding lowers the oil temperature, which can result in soggy hush puppies.
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Drain on Paper Towels: After frying, let the hush puppies drain on paper towels to remove any excess oil. This will help them stay crispier for longer.
Potential Health Benefits
While hush puppies are not typically considered a health food, they do contain ingredients that offer some nutritional benefits. Cornmeal, the base of the recipe, is a whole grain and can provide fiber and essential minerals like iron and magnesium. Buttermilk, often used in the recipe, offers calcium and vitamin D, which are important for bone health. Additionally, the onions provide a small dose of vitamin C and antioxidants.
That said, because hush puppies are fried, they should be enjoyed in moderation, especially for those watching their fat or calorie intake. Opting for a baked or air-fried version can make this classic dish a bit healthier without sacrificing the crispy texture.
Conclusion
Mama’s Cornmeal Hush Puppies bring the perfect balance of crunch and flavor, making them an irresistible addition to any Southern-inspired meal. Whether served alongside fried fish, enjoyed as an appetizer, or paired with a warm dipping sauce, these hush puppies are a timeless favorite that never fails to impress. So, why not give them a try next time you’re craving comfort food? They’re sure to bring a little bit of Southern hospitality to your table.