Hushpuppies from Cook Out feature golden, crispy deep-fried cornmeal batter mixed with diced onions and seasonings, delivering a warm, crunchy exterior and soft, flavorful interior.
Equipments
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Deep fryer (or deep, heavy-bottomed pot)
- Slotted spoon
- Paper towels
- Plate or tray
Ingredients
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1/4 cup finely diced onion
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
When preparing hushpuppies, using finely diced onions ensures even flavor distribution and a tender texture inside the golden cornmeal batter. Make sure to measure cornmeal and all-purpose flour accurately to achieve the perfect ratio for a crispy exterior and soft center. Fresh baking powder and baking soda provide the necessary rise and lightness, so check their freshness before mixing. Buttermilk adds a subtle tang and moisture, enhancing the overall taste and tenderness of your hushpuppies. Your homemade hushpuppies can closely replicate the warm, crunchy experience of those from Cook Out's copycat menu when these ingredient details are carefully followed.
Instructions
- Preheat oil in deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, black pepper, and paprika.
- In a separate bowl, whisk egg and buttermilk until combined.
- Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients; stir just until combined.
- Fold in finely diced onion.
- Let the batter rest for 5 minutes.
- Using a spoon or small scoop, drop tablespoon-sized portions of batter into hot oil.
- Fry in batches, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy, about 2–3 minutes per batch.
- Remove hushpuppies with slotted spoon; drain on paper towels.
- Serve warm.
Substitution
Hushpuppies from Cook Out feature a golden, crispy deep-fried cornmeal batter enriched with diced onions and a blend of seasonings, creating a crunchy exterior and tender interior. If buttermilk is unavailable, you can substitute it by mixing 1/2 cup of milk with 1/2 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar and letting it sit for 5 minutes to curdle. When deep frying, maintain the oil temperature around 350degF to ensure an even, golden crust without absorbing excess oil. Use a slotted spoon to transfer cooked hushpuppies onto paper towels for draining, which keeps them crisp and prevents sogginess. Your use of fresh diced onion is key to authentic flavor, but finely grated onion or onion powder can be used in a pinch.
Tips
Ensure the oil temperature remains steady at 350degF (175degC) for even cooking and crispiness. You should avoid overmixing the batter after adding wet ingredients to maintain a light texture and prevent toughness. Resting the batter for 5 minutes allows the dry ingredients to hydrate properly, improving flavor and consistency. When frying, do not overcrowd the pot to keep the oil temperature from dropping drastically, which can result in greasy hushpuppies.
Nutritions
Hushpuppies from Cook Out provide a source of carbohydrates from cornmeal and all-purpose flour, supplying energy to fuel your day. The buttermilk and egg contribute protein and essential nutrients like calcium and vitamins, promoting muscle repair and bone health. Seasonings such as paprika and black pepper add minimal calories while enhancing flavor without sodium overload. Enjoying these crispy hushpuppies can satisfy your craving for a warm, crunchy snack while delivering moderate macronutrients.
Storage
Store leftover hushpuppies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain their crispy exterior. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a resealable freezer bag, preserving texture and flavor for up to 1 month. Reheat in an oven or air fryer to restore crispiness before enjoying your snack.
Variation or Alternatives
Replace diced onions with finely chopped green onions or jalapenos to add a spicy kick and fresh flavor. Swap buttermilk for plain yogurt or sour cream for a tangier batter that still yields a moist interior. Use a cast iron skillet for frying if you don't have a deep fryer, ensuring the oil maintains an even temperature to achieve the perfect crispy texture. Your hushpuppies can be enhanced by mixing in shredded cheddar cheese for a rich, savory twist.
Allergies
Hushpuppies contain common allergens such as eggs and buttermilk, which may trigger reactions in individuals with egg or dairy allergies. The all-purpose flour includes gluten, posing a risk for those with gluten intolerance or celiac disease. If you have food allergies, it's important to verify all ingredients and consult with your healthcare provider before consuming.
Why this recipe?
Hushpuppies from Cook Out restaurant are praised for their crispy golden exterior and moist, flavorful interior, making them a perfect side dish or snack. The combination of cornmeal, onions, and seasonings creates a savory taste that complements a variety of main dishes. You will appreciate the authentic Southern flavor and satisfying texture that are hard to replicate with store-bought options. Trying the copycat recipe allows you to enjoy this iconic comfort food fresh and customized to your taste preferences.