What are Hushpuppies?
Hushpuppies are a popular southern side dish or appetizer made from cornmeal, wheat flour, eggs, and buttermilk or milk. They are small savory fried buns or fritters that have a crispy golden exterior and a soft, fluffy interior. Hushpuppies are a staple of Southern U.S. cuisine and are often served alongside fried fish, fried chicken, barbecue, or other foods.
The exact origins of hushpuppies are unclear, but most food historians agree they originated somewhere in the southern United States in the mid-19th century. Some theories suggest hushpuppies originated as a way to use up leftover cornmeal and scraps of fried batter, while others trace their roots to Native American fried breads. The name “hushpuppy” may have come from hunters frying up scraps of dough to “hush the puppies” or ward off barking dogs. Or the name may have derived from the practice of serving hushpuppies to children to keep them quiet at the dinner table.
What is Gluten?
Gluten is a group of proteins found in cereal grains like wheat, barley, and rye. When flour from these grains is mixed with water, the gluten proteins form elastic strands that give breads and other baked goods their chewy texture. People with celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity cannot tolerate gluten and experience gastrointestinal distress when they eat it.
For a food to be considered gluten-free, it must contain less than 20 parts per million of gluten. Anything over this threshold is not safe for people with celiac disease or gluten intolerance to consume. Many grains and starches, such as corn, rice, buckwheat, and potatoes are naturally gluten-free and safe for gluten-free diets.
Do Classic Hushpuppies Contain Gluten?
The classic recipe for hushpuppies calls for a basic batter of cornmeal, flour, buttermilk, eggs, baking soda, and salt. So do classic hushpuppies contain gluten?
The answer is yes. Traditional hushpuppies are not gluten-free because they are made with wheat flour, which contains the gluten protein. Specifically, the gluten comes from the wheat flour included in the batter.
Wheat flour is one of the core ingredients in basic hushpuppy recipes and provides structure and binding to the batter. Without the wheat flour, the texture of classic hushpuppies would not be light and fluffy on the inside while crispy on the outside. So traditional hushpuppies cooked according to classic Southern recipes are not safe for gluten-free diets.
Can Hushpuppies Be Made Gluten-Free?
The good news is that there are recipes for gluten-free hushpuppies, so people avoiding gluten do not have to miss out on this tasty appetizer! It is possible to prepare gluten-free hushpuppies a few different ways:
Use gluten-free flour blends
There are many all-purpose gluten-free flour blends on the market that can be substituted for wheat flour in hushpuppies. These blends are made from ingredients like rice flour, tapioca flour, sorghum flour, and potato starch. Popular brands include Bob’s Red Mill 1-to-1 Gluten-Free Flour, King Arthur Gluten-Free All-Purpose Flour, and Betty Crocker All-Purpose Gluten Free Rice Flour. Substituting about 1 cup of an all-purpose gluten-free flour blend for the 1 cup of wheat flour is a simple way to make classic hushpuppies gluten-free.
Use cornmeal and starch
Another option is to replace the wheat flour with more cornmeal, combined with a starch like potato starch or tapioca starch to provide binding and structure. The ratio can be around 1 1⁄4 cups cornmeal to 1⁄4 cup potato or tapioca starch. Xanthan gum, a common gluten-free baking ingredient, can also be added to help mimic the properties of gluten and hold the batter together.
Try almond flour or coconut flour
For a nutty twist, almond flour is an alternative that can substitute for wheat flour in hushpuppies. Coconut flour is another gluten-free option, though more eggs may be needed to account for its absorbent qualities. When using these non-traditional flours, some experimenting may be needed to get the right consistency.
Use corn flour
Corn flour makes an excellent substitution for wheat flour in hushpuppies and adds sweet corn flavor. Look for corn flour made from finely ground whole cornmeal, not to be confused with cornstarch. Replace the 1 cup wheat flour with 1 cup corn flour for gluten-free hushpuppies with classic corn flavor.
Tips for Making Gluten-Free Hushpuppies
Here are some helpful tips for getting the best results when preparing gluten-free hushpuppies:
– Choose high-quality gluten-free flours and starches, as results can vary widely between brands. Avoid flours that are gritty or textureless.
– Allow the gluten-free batter to rest for 10-15 minutes before frying to allow the starches to absorb liquid and plump up for a fluffier interior.
– Add an extra egg or egg white to help with binding and structure.
– Refrigerate the batter for 30 minutes or overnight to firm it up; this helps the hushpuppies hold their shape better during frying.
– Use a light hand when mixing the batter to avoid over-mixing, which can make the hushpuppies tough. The batter should be lump-free but still soft.
– Fry the hushpuppies in fresh, hot oil at 350-375°F to achieve a crispy exterior before the interior overcooks.
– Drain the cooked hushpuppies on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess grease. Eat while still warm for maximum flavor and texture.
Recipes for Gluten-Free Hushpuppies
Here are a couple delicious recipes for gluten-free hushpuppies to try at home:
Classic Gluten-Free Hushpuppies
| Ingredients | Amount |
|---|---|
| Cornmeal | 1 1⁄4 cups |
| Potato starch | 1⁄4 cup |
| Baking powder | 1 1⁄2 teaspoons |
| Salt | 1⁄2 teaspoon |
| Sugar | 1 Tablespoon |
| Milk | 1 cup |
| Egg | 1 |
| Canola oil | 3 Tablespoons |
Instructions:
- In a bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, potato starch, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
- In a separate bowl, beat together the milk, egg, and oil.
- Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients. Pour in the wet ingredients and stir just until combined. Do not overmix.
- Let the batter rest for 10-15 minutes.
- Drop tablespoon-sized scoops of batter into hot oil at 350-375°F. Fry for 2-3 minutes until golden brown, flipping once.
- Drain on paper towels and serve warm.
Crunchy Cornmeal Hushpuppies
| Ingredients | Amount |
|---|---|
| Fine cornmeal | 1 cup |
| Corn flour | 1⁄2 cup |
| Baking powder | 2 teaspoons |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Sugar | 1 Tablespoon |
| Milk | 1 cup |
| Egg | 1 |
| Vegetable oil | 3 Tablespoons |
Instructions:
- In a bowl, combine the cornmeal, corn flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, and vegetable oil.
- Stir the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just moistened.
- Drop tablespoon-sized globs of batter into hot oil at 375°F. Fry about 2 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Drain on paper towels and serve immediately.
Are Hushpuppies Gluten-Free at Restaurants?
Those with celiac disease or gluten intolerance need to be cautious when ordering hushpuppies at restaurants, as the batter recipe can vary drastically between locations. Some restaurants may prepare gluten-free hushpuppy recipes. However, it is impossible to know for sure if restaurant hushpuppies are gluten-free without asking directly.
When eating out, your safest bet is to check with your server or the restaurant manager about how their hushpuppies are prepared. Inquire about the ingredients and whether there is potential for cross-contamination from fried foods sharing the same oil. Be aware that even restaurants advertising gluten-free menus may have limited knowledge about gluten, so don’t hesitate to ask questions. If the restaurant staff is unsure about gluten content, it is best to avoid the hushpuppies to prevent illness.
Tips for Ordering Gluten-Free Hushpuppies at Restaurants
Here are some tips for ordering hushpuppies if you are gluten-free:
– Mention you have a gluten allergy when being seated, so the kitchen is aware and can take precautions.
– Ask your server detailed questions about gluten-free preparation methods and ingredients. Don’t just rely on menu labels.
– Request that your hushpuppies are cooked in a dedicated fryer that only fries gluten-free foods.
– If the restaurant fries gluten-containing and gluten-free items in the same oil, avoid hushpuppies due to risk of cross-contamination.
– Check that utensils and preparation surfaces are thoroughly cleaned before cooking your gluten-free order.
– Ask for any dipping sauces or condiments served with the hushpuppies to be gluten-free as well.
Should You Make Your Own Gluten-Free Hushpuppies?
When dining out with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, making your own hushpuppies is the safest option to control for cross-contamination. Preparing them at home lets you use gluten-free ingredients and cooking tools exclusively. You can customize recipes to suit your dietary needs. Making gluten-free hushpuppies also lets you replicate the classic flavors you may be missing. With some trial and error, you can fine-tune a fried hushpuppy that meets your cravings.
However, for those who rarely cook at home, don’t enjoy frying foods, or simply want the convenience of eating out, ordering gluten-free hushpuppies at restaurants is definitely possible. Just be sure to thoroughly question the staff to evaluate the risk factors at that particular establishment. At restaurants with dedicated gluten-free cooking areas and well-trained staff knowledgeable about celiac disease, eating gluten-free hushpuppies away from home can be safe.
The Bottom Line
In their traditional Southern recipe, hushpuppies are not gluten-free because they contain wheat flour. However, there are several ways to modify hushpuppies to make them gluten-free by using substitute flours like cornmeal, corn flour, or gluten-free flour blends. With some tweaking and experimentation, you can create gluten-free hushpuppy recipes with a crisp exterior and fluffy interior just like the classic version. Those with celiac disease or gluten intolerance can still enjoy hushpuppies, as long as care is taken to avoid cross-contamination by preparing them at home or ordering them at accommodating restaurants. With the right precautions, hushpuppies can still be on the menu for gluten-free diets.
