Description
Get ready to experience the crunch and flavor of these Perfect Gluten-Free Hushpuppies—a Southern classic made for modern kitchens. These golden, crispy bites are ideal as a quick snack, easy dinner side, or even a delicious gluten-free appetizer. Packed with onion flavor and fried to perfection, they’re perfect for party trays, breakfast ideas, or a cozy food idea for weeknight meals. Whether you’re following a gluten-free diet or just want a twist on the original, this easy recipe hits all the right notes.
Ingredients
1 cup finely ground yellow cornmeal (gluten-free certified)
1/2 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour blend
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 small yellow onion, finely minced
1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
1 large egg, lightly beaten
3/4 cup buttermilk or dairy-free alternative with 1 tsp lemon juice
1 tablespoon melted butter or oil
Oil for frying (vegetable, canola, or peanut oil)
Instructions
1. In a mixing bowl, combine cornmeal, gluten-free flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
2. Add minced onion and sugar (if using), then mix thoroughly to distribute evenly.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg, buttermilk, and melted butter or oil.
4. Pour wet ingredients into the dry and stir until just combined; batter should be thick and scoopable.
5. Let the batter rest for 5–10 minutes to fully hydrate.
6. Heat 2 inches of oil in a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (175°C).
7. Use a small cookie scoop or spoon to drop batter into the oil in batches.
8. Fry for 2–3 minutes, turning until golden brown and crisp.
9. Remove and drain on paper towels before serving hot with your favorite dip.
Notes
Resting the batter for a few minutes improves texture and shape when frying.
Maintain oil temperature at 350°F for best frying results—use a thermometer.
Add-ins like jalapeños or cheese should be folded in carefully to prevent breakage.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish / Snack
- Method: Deep Frying
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 hushpuppies
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 270mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 25mg