Before we dive into the delicious details of homemade jalapeño hush puppies, it’s worth considering what to pair with this dish. When you make these golden bites of goodness, think about serving them alongside:
- Crispy Fried Chicken: The crunch and heat contrast beautifully. Each bite of chicken complements the hush puppies, making for an unforgettable meal.
- Tangy Coleslaw: The creaminess and crunch of coleslaw provide a refreshing counterpoint to the spice. It balances flavors wonderfully and adds a vibrant color to your plate.
- Grilled Shrimp: The smoky, charred flavor of grilled shrimp adds depth and pairs seamlessly with the hush puppies. It’s a duo that’s hard to resist.
- Spicy Dipping Sauce: A creamy dip, perhaps ranch with a kick or a zesty salsa, enhances those spicy flavors while offering a delightful cooling effect.
Now, let’s dive into the delicacies of jalapeño hush puppies!
As someone who has always loved a good southern-inspired dish, homemade jalapeño hush puppies have a special place in my heart. They remind me of warm summer evenings spent by the grill, laughing with friends and family. There’s something magical about mixing simple ingredients to create a flavor explosion that dances on your tongue. The comfort of cornbread meets the lively kick of jalapeños—what’s not to love?
In this article, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make these mouthwatering bites at home. You’ll learn about their unique taste, why this recipe is a winner, and how to ensure your hush puppies are the star of the show.
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What Are Homemade Jalapeño Hush Puppies?
Homemade jalapeño hush puppies are deep-fried balls of dough made from a deliciously seasoned cornmeal batter, featuring chopped jalapeños for an added kick. They are crispy on the outside and soft inside, bringing a delightful texture to every bite. These little gems are often served as a side dish or appetizer but can easily stand alone as a snack.
What Do Homemade Jalapeño Hush Puppies Taste Like?
A well-made jalapeño hush puppy boasts a fascinating symphony of flavors and textures. The sweetness of the cornmeal pairs beautifully with the spicy heat from the jalapeños. You can enjoy a crispy exterior that gives way to a moist and tender interior. The savory notes from the onion and a hint of smoke from the paprika round out the taste, making these hush puppies a party for your palate.
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe works wonderfully, and here’s why:
1. Balanced Ingredients: The combination of cornmeal and flour creates a light yet substantial base. It ensures the hush puppies have a perfect crunch while maintaining a fluffy interior.
2. Quality Seasoning: By incorporating smoked paprika and onion, the flavors become deeper and more complex. This rich seasoning profile makes each bite a memorable experience.
3. Fresh Vegetables: Using fresh jalapeños and chives not only adds flavor but also provides a delightful freshness. The zing from the peppers elevates the dish beyond the average hush puppy.
4. Ease of Preparation: This recipe requires minimal effort and uses readily available ingredients. You don’t need to be a gourmet chef to whip up these delightful bites!
Ingredients for Homemade Jalapeño Hush Puppies
Before you get cooking, gather the following ingredients:
- Peanut or vegetable oil (for frying until golden)
- 1 cup self-rising flour, lightly sifted
- 1 cup yellow or white cornmeal, finely ground
- 1 ½ teaspoons aluminum-free baking powder
- ¼ cup organic cane sugar
- ½ teaspoon flaky kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 large farm-fresh egg, lightly beaten
- 1 cup tangy buttermilk
- 1 small sweet yellow onion, extra finely minced
- 2 fresh jalapeño peppers, seeded and finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
Step-by-Step Instructions
Let’s get cooking. Follow these steps to create your very own homemade jalapeño hush puppies.
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients. Measure them carefully so that you can follow the recipe with ease. Sift the self-rising flour, and ensure the cornmeal is finely ground for the best texture.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, add the self-rising flour, cornmeal, baking powder, sugar, salt, and smoked paprika. Whisk these dry ingredients together until they are well combined. This will ensure a uniform taste throughout your hush puppies.
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, mix the beaten egg and buttermilk together until they’re well blended. Pour this mixture into the bowl of dry ingredients. Stir everything gently until just combined. Do not overmix—small lumps are perfectly acceptable.
Step 4: Fold in the Vegetables
Carefully fold in the finely minced onion, jalapeños, and chives. This is where the flavors come together. Be gentle to maintain the lightness of the batter.
Step 5: Heat the Oil
In a large pot or deep skillet, heat the peanut or vegetable oil over medium-high heat. The oil needs to be hot enough for frying but be cautious not to overheat it or let it smoke. If you want to check the temperature, drop a small spoonful of batter into the oil—if it sizzles and bubbles, you’re good to go!
Step 6: Fry the Hush Puppies
Using a spoon or a small cookie scoop, carefully drop tablespoon-sized portions of the batter into the hot oil. Fry them in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook until they are golden brown, about 3-4 minutes, turning them halfway through for even browning.
Step 7: Drain and Serve
Once golden brown, use a slotted spoon to remove the hush puppies from the oil. Place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
- Fry in Batches: Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure each hush puppy fries evenly.
- Adjusting Spice Level: If you prefer less heat, remove the seeds from the jalapeños or use milder peppers.
- Serve Immediately: These hush puppies are best served fresh while they are still hot. The texture is unbeatable right from the fryer!
- Measuring Flour: Spoon and level the flour when measuring to prevent dense hush puppies.
- Experimentation: Feel free to add different ingredients such as shredded cheese or corn kernels for added flavor and texture.
Nutrition Information
Nutritional values can vary based on how much oil is absorbed during frying and portion sizes. Typical nutrition for one hush puppy (approximately 50g) might look like:
- Calories: 130
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Fat: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 150mg
How to Store the Leftovers?
If you happen to have any leftovers (which I doubt, but let’s pretend!), allow the hush puppies to cool completely. Place them in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. Reheat them in an oven or air fryer for that crispy texture. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make them soggy.
Sides for Homemade Jalapeño Hush Puppies
Looking to complete your meal? Here are some delicious sides that pair beautifully with your jalapeño hush puppies:
1. Southern Style Collard Greens: Hearty, succulent greens cooked with spices and a touch of vinegar can cut through the richness of the hush puppies.
2. Red Beans and Rice: This classic dish is filling and flavorful. The creamy beans complement the crispy texture of the hush puppies.
3. Fried Catfish: Seasoned and battered catfish has a flaky texture that matches well with the crispy hush puppies.
4. Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy, cheesy goodness rounds out your dish. The comforting flavors of mac and cheese enhance the meal, making it even more satisfying.
Alternative Choices for Ingredients
Sometimes, you may not have everything on hand. Here are some alternative choices for the ingredients:
1. Cornmeal: If you don’t have cornmeal, you can substitute half the quantity with polenta. This can add a unique texture.
2. Buttermilk: If buttermilk is unavailable, mix regular milk with a splash of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5 minutes before using.
3. Fresh Jalapeños: For a milder flavor, opt for banana peppers or even roasted red peppers. They’ll change the profile but still keep it interesting.
4. Onion: If you don’t have a sweet onion, shallots or green onions can serve as great alternatives, adding their own unique tastes.
Conclusion
Homemade jalapeño hush puppies are the kind of comfort food that not only fills your belly but warms your heart. Utilizing simple ingredients, they become a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
Whether you serve them as an appetizer or as a side, they’ll undoubtedly steal the spotlight on your table. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and enjoy creating this scrumptious dish that leads to smiles all around. Happy cooking!
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Homemade Jalapeño Hush Puppies – Easy Comfort Food Recipes
Description
As someone who has always loved a good southern-inspired dish, homemade jalapeño hush puppies have a special place in my heart. They remind me of warm summer evenings spent by the grill, laughing with friends and family. There's something magical about mixing simple ingredients to create a flavor explosion that dances on your tongue. The comfort of cornbread meets the lively kick of jalapeños—what’s not to love?
In this article, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make these mouthwatering bites at home. You’ll learn about their unique taste, why this recipe is a winner, and how to ensure your hush puppies are the star of the show.
Ingredients
Instructions
-
Let’s get cooking. Follow these steps to create your very own homemade jalapeño hush puppies.
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
-
Start by gathering all your ingredients. Measure them carefully so that you can follow the recipe with ease. Sift the self-rising flour, and ensure the cornmeal is finely ground for the best texture.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
-
In a large mixing bowl, add the self-rising flour, cornmeal, baking powder, sugar, salt, and smoked paprika. Whisk these dry ingredients together until they are well combined. This will ensure a uniform taste throughout your hush puppies.
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
-
In another bowl, mix the beaten egg and buttermilk together until they’re well blended. Pour this mixture into the bowl of dry ingredients. Stir everything gently until just combined. Do not overmix—small lumps are perfectly acceptable.
Step 4: Fold in the Vegetables
-
Carefully fold in the finely minced onion, jalapeños, and chives. This is where the flavors come together. Be gentle to maintain the lightness of the batter.
Step 5: Heat the Oil
-
In a large pot or deep skillet, heat the peanut or vegetable oil over medium-high heat. The oil needs to be hot enough for frying but be cautious not to overheat it or let it smoke. If you want to check the temperature, drop a small spoonful of batter into the oil—if it sizzles and bubbles, you’re good to go!
Step 6: Fry the Hush Puppies
-
Using a spoon or a small cookie scoop, carefully drop tablespoon-sized portions of the batter into the hot oil. Fry them in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook until they are golden brown, about 3-4 minutes, turning them halfway through for even browning.
Step 7: Drain and Serve
-
Once golden brown, use a slotted spoon to remove the hush puppies from the oil. Place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 30
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 130kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 5g8%
- Sodium 150mg7%
- Total Carbohydrate 19g7%
- Dietary Fiber 1g4%
- Sugars 1g
- Protein 3g6%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Fry in Batches: Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure each hush puppy fries evenly.
- Adjusting Spice Level: If you prefer less heat, remove the seeds from the jalapeños or use milder peppers.
- Serve Immediately: These hush puppies are best served fresh while they are still hot. The texture is unbeatable right from the fryer!
- Measuring Flour: Spoon and level the flour when measuring to prevent dense hush puppies.
Experimentation: Feel free to add different ingredients such as shredded cheese or corn kernels for added flavor and texture.
