Mom's Cajun Hush Puppies

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup cornmeal
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Directions

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, and black pepper.
2. Add the cornmeal and stir until combined.
3. In a separate bowl, beat together the egg, buttermilk, and vegetable oil until smooth.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add enough oil to coat the bottom of the pan.
6. Drop spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
7. Remove from the oil and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
8. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.

Interesting Facts

• Hush puppies are a classic Southern dish, usually served as a side to seafood dishes like fried fish or shrimp.
• The original recipe for hush puppies didn't include any spices, but over time they have become more flavorful with the addition of spices like garlic powder and cayenne pepper.
• Hush puppies are traditionally made with cornmeal, but other grains like barley or oats can also be used.