Hushpuppy

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For other uses, see Hush puppies.

A pile of Hushpuppies

Hushpuppies or Hush puppies is an American term for small cornmeal breads that are deep fried in a spherical or oblong shape. The usual ingredients include cornmeal, flour, eggs, salt, baking soda, milk, and water, and can include onions and pepper. Sometimes, pancake batter is also used. The batter is mixed well, adjusting ingredients until it is suitably thick. Then the batter is dropped into hot oil (such as vegetable oil). The cook is able to tell that the oil is hot enough when the hushpuppy floats to the surface. The hush puppy is typically fried until golden brown, and then set on a paper towel to absorb some of the oil before it is consumed. They are often eaten with catfish, seafood, or barbecue. They are usually made at home or served in restaurants that advertise "Home Cookin'" as opposed to fine dining establishments. Captain D's, Long John Silver's, Arthur Treacher's, and Skipper's are well-known franchises that serve hush puppies. They are a hearty heavy food that can easily be eaten outside of the home.

A popular anecdote explains, "If you've got a little gold, and you want a little money, just make yourself some hush puppies with fish!"

Hushpuppies are a distinctly Southern food, associated with cajun dishes and soul food, though they are now commonly served across America at fried fish fast food restaurants. One story dates them back to 1727, claiming they were created by Ursuline Nuns who came to New Orleans from France. The Nuns named them croquettes de maïs (morsels of maise). An older, far less common term for them is 'dough boys'. The name hushpuppy is explained by various stories involving the central theme of throwing this cornmeal goodie to a dog (puppy) with the command 'quiet!' or 'hush!'.

Outside of North America, these terms are not known. For example in England the word 'hush puppies' refers to the popular and well known brand of suede shoes, Hush Puppies, whose name was inspired by the food.