How do I make hush puppies? If you’re looking to add a classic Southern snack to your repertoire, hush puppies are a must-try. These golden-brown fritters are made from cornmeal and fried to perfection, often served with tartar sauce or mustard. Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering or simply want to satisfy your craving for something crunchy and delicious, here’s a step-by-step guide to making hush puppies at home.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cornmeal
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika.
- Mix in the beaten eggs and buttermilk until the batter is smooth and thick.
- Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Use a candy thermometer to monitor the oil temperature, which should be around 375°F (190°C).
- Drop tablespoons of the batter into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. The hush puppies should be about the size of a golf ball.
- Fry for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the hush puppies from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Repeat the process with the remaining batter, adding more oil to the pan as needed.
- Serve the hush puppies warm, with tartar sauce or mustard on the side.
Pro Tips:
- For extra flavor, add a chopped green onion or diced jalapeño to the batter.
- Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to suit your taste.
- Keep an eye on the oil temperature, as it can easily become too hot and burn the hush puppies.
Enjoy your homemade hush puppies with friends and family, or simply as a delightful snack on a lazy Sunday afternoon. Happy frying!
