
Hushpuppies are savory, deep-fried balls or fritters made from a cornmeal-based batter, often mixed with onions, garlic, and other seasonings. They are a classic side dish in the Southern United States, particularly associated with coastal and soul food cuisines, where they are traditionally served alongside fried fish or barbecue.
Hushpuppies are high in carbohydrates and fat due to their cornmeal base and deep-frying method, with a moderate amount of protein. A typical serving of 3-4 hushpuppies provides around 200-300 calories, offering key nutrients like iron and B vitamins from the cornmeal.
| Calories | 420 kcal |
| Protein | 6 g |
| Carbs | 52 g |
| Fat | 22 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 5 g |
| Sodium | 680 mg |
| Iron | 3.2 mg |
| Calcium | 80 mg |
| Potassium | 210 mg |
| Magnesium | 25 mg |
| Phosphorus | 120 mg |
| Vitamin B1 (Thiamin) | 0.3 mg |
| Vitamin B3 (Niacin) | 2.5 mg |
| Folate | 45 mcg |
Per 1 cup (150 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
Culturally, hushpuppies have a whimsical name with folk tales suggesting they were originally thrown to quiet barking dogs during outdoor fish fries. Nutritionally, their use of cornmeal makes them a source of whole grains, though the deep-frying process adds significant fat content.