Meet your new favorite side dish: Savory Herb Hush Puppies. These little bites are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with fresh herbs and sweet corn. Perfect for a summer cookout or a cozy night in, they’re a delightful twist on a classic Southern staple.
Cornmeal gives these hush puppies their classic Southern texture and slightly sweet flavor. All-purpose flour helps bind the ingredients together and adds a bit of structure. Baking powder is the secret to their fluffy interior. A pinch of salt balances the flavors while black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder add a savory depth. Fresh herbs — chives, parsley, and dill — bring a burst of freshness. Egg acts as a binder, and buttermilk adds a slight tang and moisture. Finally, corn kernels provide a sweet pop of flavor.
Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl. In it, whisk together your dry ingredients: cornmeal, flour, baking powder, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Give everything a good stir to make sure it’s well combined. Next, add the chopped chives, parsley, and dill, stirring until the herbs are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
In a separate bowl, crack open the egg and beat it lightly. Pour in the buttermilk and mix until you have a smooth, cohesive liquid. Now, it’s time to bring the dry and wet worlds together. Pour the egg and buttermilk mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined; you don’t want to overmix here.
Fold in the corn kernels with a gentle hand. You’re aiming for every bite to have a bit of that sweet, juicy corn. Meanwhile, heat oil in a deep fryer or a large, heavy-bottomed pot to about 350°F (175°C). Once your oil is hot, use a spoon to drop small dollops of batter into the oil, frying them in batches. Fry each hush puppy for 2-3 minutes, or until they’re a lovely golden brown. Transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Serve them warm and enjoy!
These hush puppies make a fantastic companion to fried fish or grilled chicken. Pair them with a tangy coleslaw or a zesty remoulade sauce to complement their savory flavor. They’re also great served alongside a big bowl of chili or a hearty soup.
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