If you have a soft spot for classic Southern comfort food, then this Southern Hush Puppies Recipe is about to become your new go-to. These golden, crispy-on-the-outside, tender-on-the-inside cornmeal fritters bring that perfect blend of savory, slightly sweet, and lightly spiced flavors that make hush puppies such a beloved treat across the South. Whether you’re pairing them alongside fried fish or enjoying them straight from the fryer, these hush puppies are pure magic on your taste buds and so simple to make at home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with this Southern Hush Puppies Recipe is a breeze, thanks to its simple but essential ingredients. Each plays a key role, from the yellow cornmeal that delivers the signature texture and color, to the buttermilk which adds a tangy richness to the batter.
- Yellow cornmeal: The heart of the hush puppies, providing that irresistible grainy texture and vibrant golden color.
- All-purpose flour: Balances the cornmeal and helps bind the batter for the perfect crumb.
- Granulated sugar: Adds a subtle hint of sweetness that complements the savory spices.
- Baking powder and baking soda: These leavening agents lighten the hush puppies to keep them tender yet crisp.
- Salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (optional): Seasonings that bring an inviting depth of flavor with a subtle kick.
- Finely diced yellow onion: Adds moisture and a sweet, aromatic punch in every bite.
- Buttermilk: Imparts a creamy tanginess and helps the batter stay moist.
- Large egg: Binds all ingredients together and contributes to a delicate texture.
- Vegetable oil: Essential for deep frying to achieve those crispy golden crusts.
How to Make Southern Hush Puppies Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients
Start by whisking together the yellow cornmeal, all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if you’re using it. This blend sets the savory-sweet-spicy foundation that makes hush puppies so addictive. Stir in the finely diced yellow onion, which adds wonderful texture and bursts of flavor throughout.
Step 2: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk the buttermilk together with the egg until smooth and frothy. The buttermilk’s tanginess boosts the overall flavor while the egg will help hold everything together once fried. Pour this liquid mixture into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined—the batter should be thick and hearty, not runny.
Step 3: Heat the Oil and Fry
Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or Dutch oven to 350°F. Carefully drop rounded tablespoons of batter into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the hush puppies for 2 to 3 minutes per side, turning occasionally to get that signature golden-brown crust. Once cooked through, scoop them out with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
Step 4: Keep Warm and Serve
If you’re making multiple batches, keep the hush puppies warm in a low oven so they stay delightfully crispy until it’s time to serve. These beauties are best enjoyed fresh and warm, so dive in soon after frying for the ultimate Southern comfort experience.
How to Serve Southern Hush Puppies Recipe
Garnishes
The beauty of this Southern Hush Puppies Recipe is that it pairs well with simple garnishes that enhance without overpowering. Consider a sprinkle of flaky sea salt immediately after frying or a dusting of finely chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a little fresh brightness and color contrast.
Side Dishes
Hush puppies are famously the perfect sidekick to classic Southern dishes like fried catfish, shrimp, or barbecue. Serve them alongside coleslaw, collard greens, or baked beans for a full Southern feast that bursts with flavor and comfort. Even a crisp green salad balances the richness wonderfully.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to get creative? Turn these hush puppies into bite-sized sliders by slicing them in half and adding a dollop of remoulade or tartar sauce with a crisp lettuce leaf. You can also serve them on a platter with a trio of dipping sauces like spicy aioli, honey mustard, and ranch for a crowd-pleasing appetizer spread.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers from your Southern Hush Puppies Recipe, no worries—store them in an airtight container once they have cooled completely. They’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 2 days and maintain that delicious flavor and texture.
Freezing
To freeze, lay cooked hush puppies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid to prevent sticking. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 1 month. This way you can enjoy your Southern Hush Puppies Recipe anytime without starting from scratch.
Reheating
For reheating, the oven is your best friend. Place the hush puppies on a baking sheet and warm at 350°F for about 10 minutes to regain that crispy exterior. Avoid the microwave so they don’t turn soggy and lose their charm.
FAQs
Can I make hush puppies without buttermilk?
Absolutely! If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by mixing ¾ cup milk with 1 tablespoon lemon juice or white vinegar. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using. This keeps the tangy flavor and texture similar.
What type of oil is best for frying hush puppies?
Vegetable oil is preferred for its neutral flavor and high smoke point, but peanut oil or canola oil also work beautifully. Avoid olive oil as it has a lower smoke point and a stronger taste that might overpower the hush puppies.
Can I add other vegetables or spices to the batter?
Yes! Feel free to customize your Southern Hush Puppies Recipe. Adding finely chopped jalapeños adds heat, minced garlic powder boosts savory notes, and even corn kernels or bell peppers bring extra sweetness and texture.
Why are my hush puppies dense?
Dense hush puppies usually mean the batter was over-mixed or the leavening agents weren’t fresh. Stir just until combined and check your baking powder and baking soda dates to keep these crispy and light.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this Southern Hush Puppies Recipe is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat or animal broth. Just keep in mind the cooking method is frying in vegetable oil for that perfect crust.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting about biting into a warm, crispy Southern hush puppy that reminds you of home and good company. This Southern Hush Puppies Recipe is straightforward, flavorful, and perfect for sharing with friends and family. Grab your ingredients, heat up that oil, and trust me—you’ll be hooked from the very first golden bite. Enjoy the simple joy of Southern cooking that’s both humble and utterly delicious.
Print
Southern Hush Puppies Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Southern
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Southern Hush Puppies are a classic Southern side dish featuring crispy, golden-fried cornmeal balls with a hint of sweetness and spice. These fried hush puppies are perfect alongside seafood, barbecue, or any comfort food meal, delivering a crunchy exterior with a tender, flavorful interior.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup yellow cornmeal
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Add-ins
- ½ cup finely diced yellow onion
Wet Ingredients
- ¾ cup buttermilk
- 1 large egg
For Frying
- Vegetable oil (about 2 inches for frying)
Instructions
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, black pepper, and optional cayenne pepper. Then, stir in the finely diced yellow onion evenly into the dry mix.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and the large egg until smooth and well combined.
- Make the Batter: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. The batter should be thick but moist—avoid overmixing to keep the hush puppies light.
- Heat the Oil: Pour vegetable oil into a deep skillet or Dutch oven to a depth of about 2 inches. Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C), using a thermometer for accuracy to ensure proper frying temperature.
- Fry the Hush Puppies: Carefully drop rounded tablespoons of batter into the hot oil, working in small batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side, turning occasionally, until the hush puppies are golden brown and cooked through.
- Drain and Serve: Remove the hush puppies with a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil. Keep them warm in a low oven if frying multiple batches. Serve warm alongside your favorite dishes.
Notes
- For extra flavor, consider adding 1 tablespoon of finely chopped jalapeño or a pinch of garlic powder to the batter.
- Keep the hush puppies warm by placing them in a low oven while frying the remaining batches.
- Ensure the oil temperature stays consistent at 350°F for even cooking and to prevent greasy hush puppies.
- Do not overcrowd the pan during frying to maintain oil temperature and crispiness.
