Southern Squash Puppies (Print Format)
Crispy Southern-style fritters made with yellow squash, cornmeal, and spices. Perfect for appetizers or sides.
# Ingredients:
→ Main Ingredients
01 -
5 medium yellow squash
02 -
¾ cup self-rising yellow cornmeal
03 -
¼ cup all-purpose flour
04 -
1 tablespoon sugar
05 -
1 teaspoon salt, divided
06 -
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
07 -
½ medium sweet onion, minced
08 -
½ cup buttermilk
09 -
1 egg, lightly beaten
10 -
Vegetable oil for frying
→ Optional Spice
11 -
⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper for heat
12 -
½ jalapeño, finely minced
# Steps:
01 -
Cut yellow squash lengthwise and into 2-inch pieces. Steam in a steamer basket or boil until tender, about 12-15 minutes. Drain well and mash with a fork until smooth. Let cool slightly.
02 -
In a large bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, sugar, half the salt, black pepper, and cayenne if using. Make sure everything is evenly blended.
03 -
In another bowl, mix the mashed squash, minced onion, jalapeño, buttermilk, and beaten egg. Fold this wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined - don't overmix. The batter should be thick and slightly lumpy.
04 -
Pour vegetable oil into a cast-iron skillet or Dutch oven about 1 inch deep. Heat over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F. Test by dropping a small bit of batter in - if it sizzles and floats, you're ready.
05 -
Drop rounded tablespoons of batter into hot oil, working in batches to avoid crowding. Fry for about 3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to flip them halfway through. Remove and drain on paper towels.
06 -
While still hot, sprinkle with remaining salt. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or hot sauce.
# Tips:
01 -
You can substitute zucchini for yellow squash with similar results
02 -
Adjust heat level by adding more jalapeño or cayenne, or omit for milder taste
03 -
Batter can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 2 hours before frying
04 -
These are perfect as appetizers, snacks, or side dishes