Bread is the key to any good meal. Some people like the hush puppies as much as they like the fish. Joe Fowler is the king of hush puppies in our circle.
1½ cups self-rising cornmeal
½ cup self-rising flour
½ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon sugar
½ cup finely chopped onion
2 tablespoons finely chopped jalapeño pepper (2 medium-size peppers)
1 cup buttermilk
1 large egg, beaten
Vegetable oil for frying
In a large bowl whisk the cornmeal, flour, salt, black pepper, and sugar. In a separate bowl combine the onion, jalapeño, buttermilk, and egg. Stir into the cornmeal mixture, mixing well. Let the batter sit for 15 minutes or until the Fried Catfish (page 17) has been fried.
Preheat the oil to 350 degrees in a large skillet. Drop the batter by tablespoonful into the hot oil. This can be done by using two spoons or a small ice-cream dipper. Fry 3 to 4 minutes or until golden brown. Drain on paper towel and serve hot.
Makes 20 pieces.
Note: Be careful not to crowd the skillet or the temperature of the oil will drop.