Sweet Crab Hush Puppies

These Sweet Crab Hush Puppies are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. Crispy on the outside and tender within, they’re made with fresh lump crab meat and Jiffy corn muffin mix, producing a flavor that will impress your guests. Ideal as an appetizer or a side dish, these hush puppies bring a unique twist to traditional recipes, making them a must-try.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 10 minutes, making it perfect for busy weekdays or last-minute gatherings.
• Flavorful Delight: The combination of lump crab meat and Old Bay seasoning creates an irresistible taste that seafood lovers will adore.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve these hush puppies warm with lemon, remoulade sauce, or tartar sauce for an added kick.
• Crowd-Pleasing Appetizer: With 15 servings per batch, they are great for parties, game days, or family dinners.
• Kid-Friendly Treat: The soft center and crispy exterior make them appealing to kids and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools to ensure a smooth experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Box grater
• Rubber spatula
• Deep frying pan or deep fryer
• Cooking thermometer

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients without spilling, making the preparation easier.
• Box grater: Helps to grate the onion efficiently, ensuring even distribution in the batter.
• Cooking thermometer: Ensures oil is at the right temperature for frying, preventing burnt outsides and raw insides.

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Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious sweet crab hush puppies:

For the Batter

• 8.5 oz Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix (original flavor)
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• ⅓ cup buttermilk
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
• ¼ teaspoon Kosher salt

For the Add-ins

• 1 small onion (grated)
• ½ cup corn kernels (canned, fresh, or frozen)
• ½ cup lump crab meat

For Frying

• Oil (vegetable or canola oil)

How to Make Sweet Crab Hush Puppies

Step 1: Prepare the Oil

Heat the oil in your deep frying pan to 350 degrees F. While it’s heating, grate half of an onion using a box grater until you have about 2-3 tablespoons.

Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the buttermilk, egg, and grated onion. Mix until everything is well combined.

Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients

Add the Jiffy corn muffin mix, all-purpose flour, salt, and Old Bay seasoning to the wet mixture. Stir until combined.

Step 4: Fold in Add-ins

Gently fold in the corn kernels and lump crab meat using a rubber spatula until evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 5: Fry the Hush Puppies

Drop tablespoon-sized amounts of batter into the hot oil. Fry over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Avoid frying at high heat as this may burn the outside while leaving the inside undercooked.

Step 6: Serve Warm

Once cooked, remove from oil and let drain on paper towels. Serve warm with lemon wedges or your favorite dipping sauce like remoulade or tartar sauce for an enjoyable treat!

How to Serve Sweet Crab Hush Puppies

Sweet crab hush puppies are a delightful appetizer or side dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

With Dipping Sauces

• Lemon Wedges – Fresh lemon wedges add a zesty kick that complements the sweetness of the hush puppies.
• Remoulade Sauce – This tangy sauce pairs wonderfully, providing a creamy contrast to the crispy texture.
• Tartar Sauce – A classic choice that adds a smooth and savory element to your hush puppies.

As Part of a Seafood Platter

• Shrimp Cocktail – Serve your hush puppies alongside chilled shrimp for a refreshing seafood spread.
• Crab Cakes – Pair with smaller crab cakes for a cohesive seafood theme that’s sure to impress.
• Oysters on the Half Shell – The briny taste of oysters balances out the sweetness of the hush puppies perfectly.

In a Salad

• Mixed Green Salad – Toss your hush puppies into a bed of mixed greens for added texture and flavor.
• Coleslaw – Serve alongside creamy coleslaw for a crunchy and satisfying meal.

How to Perfect Sweet Crab Hush Puppies

To make sure your sweet crab hush puppies turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Always opt for fresh lump crab meat and vegetables for the best flavor.
• Monitor Oil Temperature – Ensure your oil is at 350 degrees F; too hot can burn them, while too cool can lead to sogginess.
• Do Not Overmix – Gently fold in ingredients; overmixing can lead to dense hush puppies instead of light and fluffy bites.
• Fry in Batches – Frying too many at once can lower oil temperature. Cook in small batches for even cooking.
• Serve Immediately – Enjoy them hot out of the fryer for the best taste and texture.

Best Side Dishes for Sweet Crab Hush Puppies

Pairing sweet crab hush puppies with the right sides can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garden Salad – A fresh garden salad provides a light contrast to the richness of the hush puppies.
2. Corn on the Cob – Grilled or boiled corn complements the corn kernels in your hush puppies, enhancing their flavor.
3. Potato Wedges – Crispy potato wedges offer heartiness without overshadowing the sweetness of the dish.
4. Steamed Asparagus – Lightly steamed asparagus adds an elegant touch and a vibrant color to your table.
5. Fried Green Tomatoes – This Southern classic pairs well, adding crunch and acidity to balance flavors.
6. Coleslaw – Creamy coleslaw brings freshness and crunch, making it an ideal partner for your fried treats.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making sweet crab hush puppies, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the final result. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much can lead to tough hush puppies. Stir until just combined for a light texture.
• Incorrect Oil Temperature: Frying at too high a temperature can burn the outside while leaving the inside raw. Use a thermometer and maintain 350°F for even cooking.
• Skipping Seasoning Adjustments: Not tasting the batter before frying may result in bland hush puppies. Adjust salt and seasoning to your preference.
• Using Old Ingredients: Expired or stale ingredients can ruin your dish’s flavor. Always check the freshness of your flour and cornmeal.
• Not Draining Properly: Failing to drain excess oil after frying can make your hush puppies greasy. Allow them to rest on paper towels.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover hush puppies in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Sweet Crab Hush Puppies

• Place cooled hush puppies in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Sweet Crab Hush Puppies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals (20-30 seconds) until warm, but this may make them soft.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side until crispy again.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making sweet crab hush puppies, you’re not alone! Here are some frequently asked questions:

Can I use frozen crab meat for Sweet Crab Hush Puppies?

Yes, you can use frozen crab meat! Just thaw it completely and drain any excess liquid before mixing it into the batter.

What is the best way to serve Sweet Crab Hush Puppies?

These hush puppies pair well with lemon wedges, remoulade sauce, or tartar sauce. They make a great appetizer or side dish!

How do I know when my Sweet Crab Hush Puppies are done frying?

The hush puppies should be golden brown on both sides and float when they are cooked through. A cooking time of about 3-4 minutes per side is ideal.

Can I customize my Sweet Crab Hush Puppies?

Absolutely! You can add different seasonings, fresh herbs, or even spicy peppers for a kick. Get creative with your ingredients!

Final Thoughts

Sweet crab hush puppies are a delightful treat that combines crunchy exteriors with soft interiors, making them perfect as an appetizer or side dish. Their versatility allows you to customize flavors based on your preferences. Give this recipe a try and enjoy these delicious bites!