Hush Puppies Recipe With Corn Muffin Mix
When it comes to the heart of Southern cuisine, corn is always a staple ingredient. Whether it's boiled, fried, or baked, the versatility of corn in the kitchen is unmatched. One such recipe that has been loved by many Southerners for generations is the hush puppy. This is a dish that is often paired with seafood and is made from a combination of cornmeal, flour, and spices. However, for those short on time, using corn muffin mix for hush puppies can save time and still produce a delicious result.
Ingredients
- 1 cup of yellow cornmeal
- 1 cup of all-purpose flour
- 1 package of corn muffin mix
- 1 tablespoon of baking powder
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 cup of buttermilk
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup of diced onions
- 2 cloves of garlic (minced)
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
1. In a large bowl, mix together the cornmeal, flour, corn muffin mix, baking powder, salt, baking soda, onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using).
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and egg until combined. Then, add in the diced onions and minced garlic.
3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
4. Heat vegetable oil in a large pot or fryer over medium-high heat. The oil should be at least 2 inches deep.
5. Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop the batter into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown, flipping occasionally.
6. Once cooked, remove the hush puppies with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.
Serving Suggestions
Hush puppies are the perfect accompaniment to any seafood dish, particularly fried catfish or shrimp. However, they can also be served as a snack or side dish with barbeque, burgers, or hot dogs. They are best served warm with a side of tartar or cocktail sauce.
Tips and Tricks
1. For a sweeter twist, swap out the yellow cornmeal for sweet cornmeal.
2. To make the hush puppies more savory, add in chopped bacon or jalapeños to the batter.
3. Don't overmix the batter, as this will result in tough hush puppies.
4. Use a thermometer to check the temperature of the oil. The ideal frying temperature is around 350°F.
5. If you're short on time, use a pre-made dipping sauce instead of making your own.
Conclusion
There you have it, a simple and delicious recipe for hush puppies using corn muffin mix. Whether you're hosting a seafood boil or simply craving a Southern classic, this recipe is sure to hit the spot. Experiment with different variations of the recipe and find your perfect version. Enjoy!