Description
Hush Puppies are a classic Southern treat—crispy, golden fried cornmeal balls with a tender, fluffy inside and flavorful bites of onion and green bell pepper. Perfect as a side dish or a tasty snack, these savory morsels are quick to prepare and absolutely delicious.
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
Vegetables
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup finely chopped green bell pepper
For Frying
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt, ensuring they are evenly mixed.
- Combine wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and lightly beaten egg until smooth and well blended.
- Add vegetables: Stir the finely chopped onion and green bell pepper into the wet mixture to distribute flavors evenly.
- Combine wet and dry mixtures: Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing; the batter should remain thick and slightly lumpy.
- Heat the oil: Pour vegetable oil into a deep frying pan or skillet and heat over medium-high until it reaches 350°F (175°C), suitable for frying.
- Fry hush puppies: Using a spoon, carefully drop spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil. Fry in batches to prevent overcrowding, cooking each side for about 2-3 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
- Drain excess oil: Remove the hush puppies from oil with a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels to drain any excess oil.
- Serve warm: Enjoy the hush puppies warm as a delightful side dish or a savory snack.
Notes
- Be careful not to overcrowd the pan when frying to maintain oil temperature and crispiness.
- Use a thermometer to maintain the oil temperature at 350°F for perfect frying results.
- For a spicier twist, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños to the batter.
- These hush puppies are best enjoyed fresh but can be reheated in an oven to retain crispiness.
