Hush puppies, in the American south, are an integral part of a meal, especially in a restaurant. They are frequently put on the table upon arrival as an appetizer, much as nachos and salsa are in a Mexican restaurant.

HUSH PUPPIES

These delectable little balls of fried seasoned cornbread are incredibly addictive. Be careful; it's easy to fill up on these!

2 cups yellow corn meal
2 tablespoons flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 tablespoon sugar
2 teaspoons salt
1/4 cup finely chopped onions
Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Boiling water
1 egg, beaten
1/4 cup milk
Oil for frying
Heat oil in deep skillet or fryer to 375°F.

Mix all dry ingredients except the baking powder. Pour in enough hot water to make a thick mush, making sure all ingredients are moistened. Add milk, egg and baking powder and mix thoroughly.

Drop by spoonfuls (or use a small ice cream scoop) into oil, and fry until golden brown.

Marvelous with fish or shellfish. Fried catfish and hush puppies are a particularly classic combination.

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