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USA · Food

Southern Hushpuppies

15 min
450 kcal
4 servings

By eatmundo · July 5, 2026

Southern Hushpuppies🇺🇸AI-generated image

These savory, deep-fried cornmeal fritters are a Southern staple, known for their crispy exterior and soft, flavorful interior. Often served as a side dish with seafood, their slightly sweet and oniony taste makes them irresistibly delicious.

Ingredients

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Adapt this recipe:
4 servings

How to Make It

  • 1

    In a large bowl, combine 1.5 cups cornmeal, 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, 1 tbsp sugar, 2 tsp baking powder, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper.

  • 2

    In another bowl, whisk together 1 large egg, 1 cup buttermilk (or milk + 1 tbsp vinegar), and 1/4 cup finely chopped onion (or scallions).

  • 3

    Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.

  • 4

    Heat 3-4 inches of vegetable oil in a heavy-bottomed pot to 360°F (182°C).

  • 5

    Carefully drop spoonfuls of batter into the hot oil and fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are hushpuppies?

Hushpuppies are small, savory deep-fried balls of cornmeal batter originating from the Southern United States. They are typically made from a mixture of cornmeal, flour, buttermilk, egg, sugar, and onion, and are commonly served as a side dish with fried fish or barbecue.

What type of cornmeal is best for authentic Southern Hushpuppies?

For a traditional Southern texture, use a medium-ground yellow cornmeal. While fine-ground works, medium-ground provides a slightly coarser, more characteristic bite.

What's the ideal oil temperature for frying hushpuppies, and how can I tell if they're properly cooked?

Maintain your oil at 350-375°F (175-190°C). Hushpuppies are done when they float to the surface and are evenly golden brown, usually taking 2-4 minutes per batch.

How can I prevent my hushpuppies from becoming greasy or soggy?

Ensure your oil is at the correct temperature and avoid overcrowding the fryer, which drops the oil temperature. Fry in small batches and drain immediately on a wire rack over paper towels.

Should I use a specific type of onion for hushpuppies, and how finely should it be chopped?

A sweet onion or yellow onion works well for its mild flavor. It's crucial to mince the onion very finely, almost to a paste, so it cooks evenly and doesn't create raw bits in the finished hushpuppy.

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