Hush Puppies – Nutritional Breakdown & Ingredients
Hush puppies are a beloved Southern classic, often served as a side dish with fried seafood or barbecue. This dish, with its crunchy exterior and soft interior, offers a satisfying bite with a delightful flavor profile. Here’s a closer look at the nutritional values and health-related details associated with hush puppies.
Nutritional Information
Energy (kcal): 337.0
Protein (g): 7.7
Fat (g): 13.5
- Saturated Fats (g): 2.108
Carbohydrates (g): 46.0 - Fiber (g): 2.8
- Sugar (g): 2.03
Minerals: - Calcium (mg): 278.0
- Iron (mg): 3.04
- Magnesium (mg): 24
- Phosphorus (mg): 189.0
- Potassium (mg): 144.0
- Sodium (mg): 668.0
- Zinc (mg): 0.66
- Copper (mcg): 66.0
- Manganese (mg): 0.22
- Selenium (mcg): 15.8
Vitamins:
- Vitamin C (mg): 0.2
- Thiamine (mg): 0.352
- Riboflavin (mg): 0.332
- Niacin (mg): 2.782
- Vitamin B6 (mg): 0.102
- Folate (mcg): 20.0
- Vitamin B12 (mcg): 0.19
- Vitamin A (mcg): 41.0
- Vitamin E (mg): 1.26
- Vitamin D2 (mcg): 0.0
Ingredients
Hush puppies are made using simple ingredients that blend together to create their signature flavor and texture. Here is a list of typical ingredients used in making hush puppies:
- Cornmeal
- Flour
- Baking powder
- Sugar
- Salt
- Eggs
- Milk or buttermilk
- Onions (optional)
- Oil for frying
Allergen Information
Hush puppies contain several ingredients that may trigger common food allergies. These include:
- Gluten: From the flour used in the batter.
- Eggs: Commonly included in the recipe to bind the ingredients.
- Dairy: If milk or buttermilk is used in the batter.
- Corn: The primary ingredient being cornmeal.
Those with allergies to gluten, eggs, dairy, or corn should consider suitable substitutions or avoid this dish.
Dietary Preferences
Hush puppies, as traditionally prepared, are not suitable for individuals following certain dietary restrictions. However, with a few modifications, it is possible to adapt this dish:
- Vegetarian: Hush puppies are naturally vegetarian-friendly, though non-dairy and egg-free versions can be made for vegans.
- Gluten-Free: A gluten-free flour blend can be substituted to make this dish safe for those with gluten sensitivity.
- Low-Sodium: If you are watching your sodium intake, reduce the amount of salt or opt for a lower-sodium version of the ingredients.
Tips for Preparation
- To achieve the perfect texture, be sure to fry the hush puppies until golden brown and crispy on the outside, but soft and tender on the inside.
- If you’d like a bit more flavor, finely chop some green onions or garlic and add them to the batter for an extra boost.
- Hush puppies are best served fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container and reheated in the oven to maintain their crispiness.
Conclusion
Hush puppies offer a delightful balance of crispy, savory goodness and are an iconic part of Southern cuisine. While they are a treat on their own, they can also serve as an accompaniment to fried fish or other hearty dishes. Whether you’re preparing them for a family meal or a festive gathering, this dish can easily be modified to suit various dietary needs, ensuring everyone can enjoy a flavorful bite.
