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Get ready to indulge in the irresistible flavors and textures of Baked Hush Puppies. These crispy and golden bites are a beloved Southern classic that are traditionally deep-fried. However, this recipe puts a healthier spin on the traditional version by baking them to perfection. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the step-by-step process of making these delectable treats. Prepare to savor the crispy exterior, tender interior, and savory flavors of these homemade Baked Hush Puppies!
Hush puppies, those golden, crispy, bite-sized morsels, have a storied history deeply rooted in Southern cuisine in the United States. These delightful little balls of fried cornmeal batter are the perfect side dish for fried fish, seafood boils, or any Southern comfort food feast.
The origins of hush puppies can be traced back to the American South, particularly to the early 19th century. The name “hush puppy” has an interesting legend associated with it. It’s said that these fried balls were initially used by Southern cooks to “hush” barking dogs, hence the name. When fish or game was being fried, cooks would toss some of the cornmeal batter to the dogs to keep them quiet, and thus, hush puppies were born.
Over time, hush puppies became a beloved and essential accompaniment to Southern meals. Today, you can find them not only in the South but also in various parts of the United States and even around the world, often with unique regional twists.
Baked Hush Puppies
Baked Hush Puppies are cornmeal-based fritters that are typically served as a side dish or appetizer. They feature a crispy exterior and a soft, flavorful interior that is sure to satisfy your cravings. This baked version offers all the deliciousness of traditional hush puppies with less oil and a lighter texture. With the perfect balance of savory and slightly sweet flavors, these hush puppies are an excellent accompaniment to seafood, barbecues, or any Southern-inspired meal. Get ready to experience the comforting taste of the South in every bite!
Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl: Buy On Amazon
- Whisk or fork: Buy On Amazon / Buy On Amazon
- Baking sheet: Buy On Amazon
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat: Buy On Amazon / Buy On Amazon
- Cookie scoop or tablespoon: Buy On Amazon / Buy On Amazon
- Cooling rack: Buy On Amazon
Ingredients
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Lightly grease the parchment paper or baking mat with cooking spray.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cornmeal, all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Whisk together until well combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, finely chopped onion, finely chopped bell pepper, canned corn kernels, egg, and melted butter.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded portions of the batter onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
Lightly flatten the tops of the batter mounds with the back of a spoon or your fingertips.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the hush puppies are golden brown and crispy.
Remove from the oven and transfer the hush puppies to a cooling rack to cool slightly before serving.
Servings 24
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 52.16kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 1.47g3%
- Saturated Fat 0.76g4%
- Cholesterol 10.76mg4%
- Sodium 97.53mg5%
- Potassium 32.33mg1%
- Total Carbohydrate 8.4g3%
- Dietary Fiber 0.47g2%
- Sugars 0.58g
- Protein 1.28g3%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs. Please note that the nutritional values provided are approximate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used. It's always best to double-check with your specific ingredients and measurements for accurate nutritional information.
Note
Tips and Variations:
- For a spicier version, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a dash of hot sauce to the batter.
- Customize the flavor by adding additional ingredients such as cooked bacon, shredded cheese, or finely chopped jalapeños.
- If you don't have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by combining 1/2 cup of milk with 1/2 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for a few minutes before using.
- Serve the hush puppies with dipping sauces such as remoulade, honey mustard, or comeback sauce for added flavor.
- Make sure to preheat your oven properly to ensure the hush puppies bake evenly and develop a crispy exterior.
- Feel free to adjust the size of the hush puppies to your preference. Smaller portions will result in a greater number of servings.
- If you prefer a smoother texture, you can blend a portion of the batter in a food processor before mixing it back into the remaining batter.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve Baked Hush Puppies as a side dish with fried seafood, barbecue ribs, or grilled meats for a Southern-inspired feast.
- Include them in a seafood boil or fish fry as a tasty alternative to traditional hush puppies.
- Enjoy them as an appetizer at parties, picnics, or potlucks. Serve them alongside other finger foods or dips for a delightful snack spread.
- Pair them with coleslaw, pickles, or tartar sauce for a complete seafood meal experience.
- Serve them at brunch with other Southern favorites like fried chickenand biscuits for a delicious twist on a classic brunch menu.
Allergen Information:
Here's some allergen information for Baked Hush Puppies:
Wheat: The primary ingredient in hush puppies is cornmeal, which usually contains wheat. People with wheat allergies or celiac disease should choose gluten-free cornmeal and flour substitutes.
Dairy: Most traditional hush puppy recipes include dairy, such as milk or buttermilk. If you're lactose intolerant or have a dairy allergy, you can use dairy-free alternatives like almond milk or soy milk.
Egg: Eggs are used as a binding agent in hush puppy batter. If you have an egg allergy, you can try egg replacers or a mixture of water, oil, and baking powder.
Wine or Drink Pairing:
Pairing beverages with hush puppies depends on the context of your meal. Here are some suggestions:
Iced Tea: Classic Southern iced tea, sweetened or unsweetened, complements the savory, fried nature of hush puppies.
Beer: Crisp lagers or light ales work well, especially if you're enjoying hush puppies with fried fish or seafood.
Lemonade: A refreshing glass of lemonade can cut through the richness of fried hush puppies.
Storage and Leftovers:
Here's how to store baked hush puppies and deal with leftovers:
Refrigeration: Allow any leftover hush puppies to cool to room temperature, then place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. They should stay fresh for 2-3 days.
Reheating: To reheat, place the hush puppies on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until they're heated through and crispy again.
Freezing: You can freeze hush puppies by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freezing until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper. Reheat from frozen in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes.
