Southern Panfish & Hush Puppies
Panfish is a term used to describe a group of freshwater fish that are typically small in size and have a flat body shape. Some common types of panfish include bluegill, crappie, and perch. These fish are popular among anglers due to their abundance in many bodies of water and their willingness to bite on a variety of baits.
When it comes to cooking panfish, there are many different methods that can be used. Some people prefer to fry them whole, while others fillet them before cooking. Panfish can be seasoned with a variety of herbs and spices to add flavor. They are often served with sides such as coleslaw, fries, or hush puppies.
Hush puppies are small, deep-fried balls made from cornmeal-based batter. They are a popular side dish in the Southern United States and are often served with seafood dishes like fried catfish or shrimp. Hush puppies get their name from their original use as a way to "hush the puppies" or quiet the dogs who were begging for scraps during meals.
The exact origin of hush puppies is unclear, but they are believed to have originated in the Southern United States in the early 19th century. Today, hush puppies are enjoyed all over the world and can be found on the menu at many seafood restaurants.
BONUS: Favorite Panfish and Hush Puppy Recipe’s
Panfish Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 pound of panfish fillets
- 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup of yellow cornmeal
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper
- 1/2 cup of milk
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, mix together the flour, cornmeal, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
2. Pour the milk into another bowl.
3. Dip each fillet into the milk and then dredge it in the flour mixture until fully coated.
4. Heat about an inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the fillets in the skillet and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
6. Remove the fillets from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Hush Puppy Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of yellow cornmeal
- 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 egg, beaten
- 3/4 cup of milk
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, mix together the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, salt, onion powder, and garlic powder.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg and milk.
3. Pour the egg mixture into the cornmeal mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Heat about an inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Once the oil is hot, drop spoonfuls of the batter into the skillet and cook for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
6. Remove the hush puppies from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Happy fishing and even happier eating!! ENJOY!!
