Hush Puppy Recipe: Can You Use Cornbread Mix To Make Hush Puppies?

Hush puppies, those delectable golden-brown balls of fried cornbread, are a staple of Southern cuisine. While traditionally made from scratch, many home cooks wonder if they can skip the hassle and use cornbread mix instead. The answer is a resounding yes! Cornbread mix provides a convenient and flavorful shortcut to creating these irresistible treats.

What is Cornbread Mix?

Cornbread mix is a pre-packaged blend of cornmeal, flour, salt, and baking powder. It is designed to make cornbread with minimal effort, simply by adding water or milk. The resulting batter is typically thick and slightly sweet, with a characteristic cornmeal texture.

Benefits of Using Cornbread Mix for Hush Puppies

Using cornbread mix to make hush puppies offers several advantages:

• Convenience: Cornbread mix eliminates the need for measuring and mixing individual ingredients, saving time and effort.
• Consistent results: The pre-measured ingredients ensure consistent texture and flavor in every batch of hush puppies.
• Flavor: Cornbread mix typically contains sweeteners and spices, which add depth of flavor to the hush puppies.
• Versatility: You can customize the hush puppies by adding additional ingredients such as chopped onions, jalapenos, or cheese.

Recipe for Hush Puppies Using Cornbread Mix

Ingredients:

• 1 package (8.5 ounces) cornbread mix
• 1 egg
• 1 cup milk
• Optional: 1/4 cup chopped onions, 1/4 cup chopped jalapenos, 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the cornbread mix, egg, and milk. Stir until just combined.
2. Fold in any optional ingredients, if desired.
3. Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large skillet to 375°F (190°C).
4. Drop spoonfuls of batter into the hot oil.
5. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.

Tips for Making Perfect Hush Puppies

• Use cold milk to keep the batter from thinning out.
• Drop the batter into the oil using a spoon or small cookie scoop for consistent size.
• Do not overcrowd the fryer or skillet.
• If the hush puppies are browning too quickly, reduce the heat slightly.
• Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.

Variations on Hush Puppies

• Sweet Hush Puppies: Add a tablespoon of sugar to the batter for a sweeter treat.
• Spicy Hush Puppies: Stir in a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapenos for a fiery kick.
• Cheesy Hush Puppies: Fold in 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese for a gooey and flavorful twist.
• Seafood Hush Puppies: Add 1/2 cup of cooked shrimp or crab to the batter for a savory seafood delight.

What to Serve with Hush Puppies

Hush puppies are the perfect side dish for a variety of Southern dishes, including:

• Fried chicken: The crispy exterior and fluffy interior of hush puppies make them an ideal accompaniment to fried chicken.
• Barbecue: The sweetness of hush puppies balances the smoky flavor of barbecue.
• Seafood: Hush puppies are a delicious addition to any seafood platter, especially with shrimp or fish.
• Soups and stews: Hush puppies can be served as a hearty and flavorful side to soups and stews.

Alternatives to Cornbread Mix

If you do not have cornbread mix on hand, you can make your own hush puppy batter from scratch using the following ingredients:

• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 egg
• 1 cup milk

Final Thoughts: Elevate Your Southern Cuisine with Cornbread Mix Hush Puppies

Whether you are a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, using cornbread mix to make hush puppies is an effortless and delicious way to elevate your Southern cuisine. With their crispy exterior, fluffy interior, and customizable flavors, these bite-sized treats are sure to become a favorite among family and friends. So grab a bag of cornbread mix and get ready to enjoy the irresistible charm of homemade hush puppies!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use any type of cornbread mix to make hush puppies?
A: Yes, you can use any brand or type of cornbread mix. However, some mixes may contain additional ingredients such as sugar or spices, which can affect the flavor of the hush puppies.

Q: How long can I store hush puppies?
A: Hush puppies are best served fresh. However, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the hush puppies on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.

Q: Can I freeze hush puppies?
A: Yes, you can freeze hush puppies for up to 2 months. Place the cooled hush puppies in a freezer-safe bag or container. To reheat, thaw the hush puppies overnight in the refrigerator and then warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes.