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Crispy Cajun Bacon Fat Hush Puppies

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Bacon Fat Hush Puppies Recipe

Overview:

This delightful recipe for Bacon Fat Hush Puppies hails from Paul Prudhomme’s Louisiana Kitchen, a treasure trove of Cajun and Creole cuisine. These hush puppies are not just any fried cornmeal treats – they’re infused with the rich flavors of bacon drippings and chicken fat, making them irresistibly savory and deeply flavorful. Perfect for gatherings or as a side dish to complement your favorite seafood dishes!

Recipe Details:

  • Prep Time: 1 hour
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
  • Yield: Approximately 30 hush puppies

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup cornmeal
  • 1/2 cup unbleached flour
  • 1/2 cup cornflour
  • 1 cup masa harina
  • 3/4 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano leaves
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons finely chopped green onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 cup milk
  • 2 tablespoons chicken fat (lard or other fat can be substituted)
  • Bacon drippings (reserved from cooking bacon)
  • Canola oil (for frying)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare Dry Ingredients:

    • In a large bowl, combine the cornmeal, unbleached flour, cornflour, masa harina, baking powder, cayenne pepper, salt, black pepper, thyme, white pepper, and oregano. Mix well, breaking up any lumps.
  2. Add Aromatic Ingredients:

    • Stir in the chopped green onions and minced garlic, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dry mixture.
  3. Prepare Wet Mixture:

    • In a small saucepan, bring the milk and chicken fat (or preferred fat) to a boil over medium heat. Once boiled, remove from heat.
  4. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures:

    • Gradually add the hot milk mixture to the dry ingredients, pouring half at a time. Stir thoroughly after each addition to incorporate the liquids evenly into the dry mixture. This step helps create a smooth batter.
  5. Chill the Batter:

    • Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the batter for at least 1 hour. Chilling allows the flavors to meld and helps the batter firm up for easier handling during frying.
  6. Heat Oil for Frying:

    • In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat the canola oil to 350°F (175°C). Use enough oil to submerge the hush puppies entirely for even frying.
  7. Fry the Hush Puppies:

    • Using a tablespoon, carefully drop spoonfuls of the chilled batter into the hot oil. Avoid overcrowding the skillet to ensure even cooking.
  8. Fry Until Golden Brown:

    • Fry the hush puppies until they turn a deep golden brown color, about 1 minute per side. Use a slotted spoon or spider strainer to gently turn them for even cooking.
  9. Drain and Serve:

    • Once cooked, transfer the hush puppies to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. This step helps keep them crisp and removes any residual oil.
  10. Serve Warm:

    • Serve the Bacon Fat Hush Puppies immediately while still warm. They are perfect on their own or alongside your favorite seafood dishes like fried fish or shrimp.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

  • Calories: 100.6
  • Total Fat: 7.5g
    • Saturated Fat: 3.6g
  • Cholesterol: 20.8mg
  • Sodium: 85.5mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 6.9g
    • Dietary Fiber: 0.6g
    • Sugar: 0.1g
  • Protein: 1.4g

Tips for Success:

  • Flavor Variation: For a smokier flavor, consider using smoked bacon drippings instead of regular bacon drippings.
  • Handling the Batter: If the batter feels too sticky, lightly dust your hands with cornmeal or flour before shaping the hush puppies.
  • Oil Temperature: Maintain the oil temperature around 350°F (175°C) throughout frying to achieve crispy exteriors and fully cooked interiors.
  • Batch Cooking: Fry the hush puppies in batches, allowing enough space between them to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

Conclusion:

These Bacon Fat Hush Puppies are a testament to the rich culinary heritage of Louisiana, blending traditional ingredients with a touch of innovation. Whether you’re hosting a seafood feast or simply craving a taste of Southern comfort, this recipe promises to deliver crispy, golden-brown hush puppies that are sure to please any crowd. Enjoy the flavors, savor the moments, and indulge in the deliciousness of homemade goodness with every bite!

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