Homemade Jalapeño Hush Puppies

Tender balls of slightly sweetened cornmeal batter, studded with fresh jalapeño peppers, then deep-fried until perfectly golden brown and crisp on the outside while remaining light and airy inside. This side dish works beautifully with fried seafood, barbecues, or simply as a tasty snack.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• A delightful contrast of textures: a crunchy exterior meets a soft, fluffy interior

• A little heat from jalapeños gives the classic hush puppy an exciting kick

• Easy to make: the batter comes together in one bowl, rests while you heat the oil, then you’re ready to fry

• Versatile: you can tweak the spice, use different cornmeal colors, or serve with a variety of dipping sauces

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 cup self-rising flour

• 1 cup cornmeal (yellow or white)

• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder

• ½ teaspoon kosher salt

• 1 small yellow onion, very finely minced

• 2 fresh jalapeño peppers, seeded and minced

• ¼ cup granulated sugar

• 1 large egg

• 1 cup buttermilk

• Peanut or vegetable oil for frying

Directions

1. Make the batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the self-rising flour, cornmeal, baking powder, salt, onion, jalapeños, and sugar. Add the egg and buttermilk and stir until just combined. Let the batter rest for 20–30 minutes.

2. Prepare to fry: Line a baking sheet with paper towels and place a wire cooling rack on top. Heat 2–3 inches of oil in a heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat until it reaches 375°F.

3. Scoop and fry: Drop tablespoon-sized scoops of batter into the hot oil. Fry for about 1½ minutes per side until golden brown and crisp. Work in batches to avoid overcrowding.

4. Drain and serve: Transfer the fried hush puppies to the prepared rack to drain. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

Servings and timing

• Makes: Approximately 30 hush puppies

• Prep time: 35 minutes (including batter rest time)

• Cook time: 10 minutes

• Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Flour alternative: Use all-purpose flour with 1 tsp baking powder and ¼ tsp salt added

• Cornmeal options: Substitute with white cornmeal if preferred

• Buttermilk substitute: Mix 1 tbsp lemon juice or vinegar with 1 cup of milk and let sit for 10 minutes

• Jalapeño options: Use pickled or canned peppers for a different flavor

• Onion texture: Grate instead of mince for smoother consistency

• Flavor additions: Try adding corn kernels, shredded cheese, or different spices

Storage / Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–5 days

• Reheating: Reheat in a 375°F oven for 10–15 minutes or in an air fryer until hot and crisp

FAQs

What are hush puppies?

They are deep-fried balls made from cornmeal batter, commonly served as a side with fried foods.

Why are they called “hush puppies”?

Legend says cooks tossed them to dogs to “hush” them during cookouts or fish fries.

Can I make these in an air fryer?

The batter is too loose for air frying initially, but leftovers reheat well in an air fryer.

What oil is best for frying?

Peanut or vegetable oil is ideal due to high smoke points and neutral flavor.

How do I test if the oil is hot enough?

Drop a small bit of batter in; it should sizzle and float. A thermometer reading 375°F is best.

Can I freeze hush puppies?

Yes, freeze after frying. Reheat in an oven or air fryer for best texture.

How spicy are they?

They have a mild heat. Adjust jalapeño amount or remove seeds for less spice.

Can I omit the sugar?

Yes, but it helps balance flavors. Reduce or omit according to preference.

What goes well with hush puppies?

Fried fish, shrimp, barbecue, or dipping sauces like aioli, remoulade, or tartar.

Can I bake them instead?

They don’t bake well traditionally, but you could try using a mini muffin tin.

Conclusion

These jalapeño hush puppies are everything you want in a comforting side dish—crunchy, fluffy, savory, and with a hint of spice. They’re easy to whip up, customizable, and pair wonderfully with a wide range of meals. Whether you’re planning a seafood feast or just craving something fried and delicious, this recipe is a must-try.