The Best Homemade Hush Puppies Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
These homemade hush puppies are a crowd-pleaser, combining simplicity with irresistible flavor. They’re golden, crispy on the outside, and tender on the inside, making them perfect for any occasion.
- Quick and easy to make, with ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.
- Perfectly seasoned with a hint of sweetness, ideal for pairing with your favorite dips or meals.
- A great way to bring a touch of Southern comfort to your table without much effort.
Recipe
Hush puppies are a classic Southern side dish, perfect for pairing with fried fish or barbecue. These golden, crispy bites are easy to make at home and require just a few simple ingredients.
Ingredients:
1 cup yellow cornmeal
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
1 large egg, beaten
3/4 cup buttermilk
1/2 cup finely chopped onion
Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, salt, black pepper, and onion powder (if using).
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the beaten egg and buttermilk.
- Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Fold in the chopped onion.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or Dutch oven to 365°F (185°C).
- Drop spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding.
- Fry for 2-3 minutes per side or until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Notes:
For extra flavor, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or finely chopped jalapeños to the batter.
Equipment:
Large mixing bowl, whisk, deep skillet or Dutch oven, slotted spoon, paper towels.
Time:
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Cuisine:
Southern American
Serving:
Serves 4-6 as a side dish.
Nutrition
Hush puppies are a delicious Southern treat, but they are not the healthiest option. Here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving:
| Nutrition | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150 |
| Total Fat | 8g |
| Saturated Fat | 1g |
| Cholesterol | 15mg |
| Sodium | 200mg |
| Total Carbohydrate | 18g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1g |
| Sugars | 2g |
| Protein | 3g |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my hush puppies with classic Southern sides, like coleslaw or baked beans, for a meal that feels extra special. A tangy dipping sauce, such as remoulade or spicy mayo, adds a fun twist that keeps me reaching for more. Let’s talk about the best combos to make your hush puppies shine!
Side Dishes
When I’m whipping up a batch of homemade hush puppies, I always think about what’ll pair perfectly with them. For me, nothing beats golden-fried chicken—its crispy exterior and juicy meat complement the soft, savory hush puppies so well. I also love adding a side of cornbread muffins, warm and buttery, to round out the meal. They’re simple to make and add that extra touch of Southern comfort. Sometimes, I’ll throw in a fresh coleslaw or a bowl of creamy potato salad to balance the richness. These sides together create a satisfying, homestyle feast that’s always a hit.
Dipping Sauces
Though hush puppies are delicious on their own, dipping sauces can take them to the next level. I love pairing them with sweet condiments like honey butter or spicy maple syrup—they add a perfect balance. For something tangy, try a zesty remoulade or a creamy dill sauce. Savory spreads like pimento cheese or garlic aioli are my go-to when I’m craving bold flavors. Don’t forget classic tartar sauce or mustard for a simple, satisfying option. Experimenting with dips is half the fun, so don’t be afraid to mix and match until you find your favorite combo!
