Hutchinson's freckle

Hush Puppy is a type of fried dough food that is popular in the Southern United States. It is a small, savory, deep-fried ball made from cornmeal-based batter. Hush puppies are often served as a side dish, usually at fish fries.

History

The origin of the hush puppy is not clear, with several southern states claiming its creation. It is likely that the food originates from the practice of frying leftover batter after making cornbread, but this is not definitively known. The name "hush puppy" dates back to at least 1899.

Preparation

Hush puppies are made from a batter that includes cornmeal, wheat flour, eggs, salt, baking soda, milk or buttermilk, and sometimes onion juice, spring onions, garlic, or whole kernel corn. The batter is mixed until smooth, then dropped by spoonfuls into hot oil and fried until golden brown.

Variations

There are many variations of hush puppies. Some recipes add jalapeños, whole kernel corn, or cheese to the batter. In some areas, hush puppies are served with a dipping sauce, such as honey butter or remoulade.

Cultural Significance

Hush puppies have a significant cultural impact in the Southern United States. They are a staple at many southern fish fries and barbecues. They are also commonly served at seafood restaurants.

See Also

• Cornbread
• Fritter
• Southern United States cuisine