Southern Style Hush Puppies
On October 02, 2024
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A crispy, golden, fried batter with a light, fully interior popping with sweet corn flavor, you have to try my Southern Style Hush Puppies.
Southern Style Hush Puppies
A perfectly crisp sphere of golden-fried goodness with a light, fluffy interior bursting with sweet corn flavor, these Southern Style Hush Puppies are a knockout side. These savory bites combine the earthy richness of cornmeal with the subtle sweetness of corn kernels and a mild bite of scallions. Fried to perfection, they’re an irresistible addition to any BBQ spread, hearty chili, or fish fry. Whether you’re hosting a backyard cookout or looking for a crowd-pleasing side dish, these hush puppies are sure to become a staple on your menu. If you’re ready to experience a true taste of Southern comfort that’ll have your guests coming back for seconds, then let’s get started.
What are hush puppies?
Hush puppies are a popular Southern staple in America. Made from a seasoned, cornmeal batter, these savory fritters are deep-fried to golden perfection. While their exact origin remains unclear, one theory suggests they got their name during the Civil War, because cooks would try to quiet the dogs by tossing them these fried nuggets.
What makes hush puppies so apart from other corn-based dishes is their unique texture. The crispy exterior gives way to a tender, almost cake-like interior, creating an incredible contrast with each bite. Unlike a bake cornbread, we’re frying these hush puppies, so you get that signature golden crust and round shape.
Batter for Hush Puppies
One of the best parts of this hush puppy recipe is how simple the ingredients are. You’ll likely find most of these ingredients already stocked in your pantry, making these bad boys a great last-minute side. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 cup corn kernels
- ¼ cup scallion whites (chopped)
- ½ cup cornmeal
- ¾ cup flour
- 2 teaspoons Hey Grill Hey Beef Rub
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- 1 egg
- ½ cup milk
- 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
- 6 cups vegetable oil (for frying)
The Best Corn for Hush Puppies
When it comes to the star ingredient, you’ve got some options. While I absolutely love using fresh corn kernels cut straight from the cob for that burst of sweet, juicy flavor, I understand it’s not always possible. Don’t worry, canned or frozen corn work great too. If using frozen or canned, just make sure to thaw and dry them thoroughly before mixing into the batter. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect texture you’re after.
How to Make Hush Puppies
Alright, if you’re ready to create some irresistible Southern Hush Puppies, then you’re just a few simple steps away. Follow these easy instructions and you’ll be serving crispy, golden balls of joy to your guests in no time:
- Preheat. Get your cooking oil hot on your grill or stovetop in a 12-inch cast iron skillet. I use vegetable oil, but you can use any cooking oil you like. The important part is to get your oil around 350 degrees F. This temperature allows you to achieve that golden-brown exterior while cooking the inside to fluffy perfection.
- Mix dry ingredients. Grab yourself a large bowl, and add in all your dried ingredients. As you whisk together the cornmeal, flour, and seasonings, you’re creating the foundation for that perfect crispy-meets-fluffy texture.
- Mix wet ingredients. In a separate bowl, combine the egg, milk, and apple cider vinegar. This mix will bring moisture and a subtle tang to your hush puppies.
- Combine wet and dry. Here’s where it all comes together. Pour the wet into the dry, then stir together gently with a spoon until everything is incorporated. You want a slightly lumpy batter with plenty of corn and scallions.
- Fry hush puppies. Now for the fun part. Carefully drop spoonfuls of batter into the hot oil and watch as they transform into golden orbs of deliciousness. You can use an ice cream scooper, or drop them with two spoons for a more rustic finish.
- Cool, serve, and enjoy. Transfer your puppies to a cooling rack for a moment, then serve these crispy, corn-filled bites alongside your favorite dipping sauce. Get ready for some serious Southern comfort.
Recipe Variations and Substitutions
One of the best parts of cooking is customizing a recipe to your preferences, and these hush puppies are no exception. Feel free to get creative and tailor them to your taste. Here are a few ideas to kickstart your creativity:
- Spice things up. If you want to heat things up, then you can add some diced jalapeños, with or without the seeds.
- Get herby. Add to or swap our your scallions with different herbs like cilantro or parsley for a next profile.
- Oh tang. If you want a little extra zip, then try swapping the milk for buttermilk.
- Lighten up. You can adjust the density and texture of your hush puppies with the level of cornmeal. I love mine light and fluffy, but you can add a little extra if you want a more dense, gritty option.
More Southern Side Recipes
If you love these hush puppies, then you’re in for a treat. I’ve got hundreds of BBQ and Southern-inspired recipes in the Hey Grill Hey App, so you can expand your sides menu. From classic sides to innovative twists on traditional favorites, there’s something for everyone. Here are few of my favorites to serve up at your next cookout:
Easy Hush Puppy Recipe
Now that you’ve got the inside scoop on making perfect hush puppies, it’s time to fire up that skillet and get cooking. Don’t forget to give this recipe a 5-star rating, then leave a comment on how you loaded up your hush puppies. And of course, snap a couple pictures of your golden creations and share them on Facebook and Instagram. Make sure to tag @heygrillhey so you can inspire our Hey Grill Hey community.
Remember, great BBQ is all about sharing, so share some good food with the people you love. Whether you’re a seasoned pitmaster or just starting out, you’ve got what it takes to be a backyard BBQ hero. So gather your ingredients, invite some friends over, and let’s make some memories around the grill.
Southern Style Hush Puppies
Ingredients
- 1 cup corn kernels
- ¼ cup scallion whites chopped
- ½ cup cornmeal
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons Hey Grill Hey Beef Rub
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- 1 egg
- ½ cup milk
- 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
- 6 cups vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- Preheat. In a 12-inch cast iron skillet, preheat your cooking oil to around 350 degrees F.6 cups vegetable oil
- Mix dry ingredients. In a large bowl, combine all dry ingredients, then whisk together until incorporated. Ensure your corn and scallions are coated in cornmeal and flour. This allows them to stabilize in the oil and not clump together.1 cup corn kernels, ¼ cup scallion whites, ½ cup cornmeal, ¾ cup all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons Hey Grill Hey Beef Rub, 1 teaspoon baking soda, ½ teaspoon baking powder
- Mix wet ingredients. In a separate, medium-sized bowl, combine all the wet ingredients. Whisk together until everything is blended.1 egg, ½ cup milk, 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
- Combine wet and dry. Pour the wet mix over the dry mix, then stir everything together with a rubber spatula. You’re looking for a slightly lumpy batter, and for the corn and scallions to be evenly spread.
- Fry hush puppies. Scoop balls of around 1 ½ Tablespoons, and place in fryer. Fry 5-7 minutes until crispy and golden brown.
- Cool, serve, and enjoy. Remove your hush puppies to a wire rack to cool for a few moments. Serve as a side at your cookout with your favorite dipping sauce, and enjoy!
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
