Hushpuppies are a deep-fried, cornmeal-based food that originated in the southern portion of the United States. These delectable treats bear a similarity to fritters or dumplings and are deep-fried in lard or vegetable oil. Hushpuppies can be found at many fast-food restaurants, roadside eateries and food stands across the country where they are commonly served as is or as a side dish to complement fried catfish. Since they are easy to cook and a popular comfort food, many people also make their own hushpuppies at home for family dinners, parties, gatherings and social occasions.
The History of Hushpuppies
The history of hushpuppies is believed to extend back to the Civil War. Confederate soldiers as well as fisherman and hunters ate them and also fed them to their dogs to "hush" them when they barked or howled, hence the nickname. The hushpuppies they made were tasty, filling and easy to make from readily available ingredients with minimal cooking supplies. The fact that they were inexpensive and portable has made them an attractive snacking prospect up to the present day.
Where to Find Them
In the southern United States, hushpuppies can be found on many restaurant menus. They are also popular across the country at soul food eateries as well as at some fast-food establishments and diners. Sometimes you may be able to find them on the menu at buffets and delis.
How They're Served
Hushpuppies can be served by themselves as an appetizer, snack or meal. They are also commonly an accompaniment to fried catfish or fried chicken. At some eateries in the South, complimentary hushpuppies are served in place of bread to customers waiting for their meals to arrive.
What Hushpuppies Look Like
Hushpuppies are typically round or oblong and no larger than a golf ball or short pencil. They are golden brown in appearance, though the actual color may vary slightly depending on everything from the temperature of the cooking oil to the spices that are added. If they are served promptly after being removed from the deep fryer they will appear crispy. Hushpuppies that are allowed to sit for an extended period of time will begin to take on a greasy, semisoft sheen and they will lose their crunch.
Making Your Own at Home
It is not difficult to make hushpuppies at home. With a few basic ingredients, including cornmeal or cornmeal mix, flour, milk or buttermilk, eggs and the seasoning of your choice, it's possible to make a batch to deep-fry on your stove top or in a home deep fryer. Websites such as Whatscookingamerica.net and Foodnetwork.com have simple recipes to follow that allow you to make homemade hushpuppies from the comfort of your own kitchen.
Recipe Variations
There are countless ways to amend or personalize hushpuppies to suit your personal taste. Some of the most popular additions include items such as green onions, Cajun seasonings, hot peppers, garlic, corn kernels and breadcrumbs. Some people even add sugar to create a sweet, dessert-like variation of a hushpuppy.
Making a Healthier Hushpuppy
To make a healthier, less fattening version of the hushpuppy, many people have taken to oven baking rather than deep-frying them in oil or lard. An example of a baked hushpuppy recipe can be found on the Cooks.com website. While this is not the traditional means of making them, it is considerably healthier and can afford those who are dieting or watching what they eat the ability to consume one of their favorite foods in a more heart healthy form.
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