Hush puppies

Hush puppies

Appetizer

Item Rating: 62/100

1 serving (85 grams) contains 210 calories, 3.0 grams of protein, 10.0 grams of fat, and 25.0 grams of carbohydrates.

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583.3
calories
8.3
protein
69.4
carbohydrates
27.8
fat

Nutrition Information

1 cup (236.1g)
Calories
583.3
% Daily Value*
Total Fat 27.8 g 35%
Saturated Fat 5.6 g 28%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0 g
Cholesterol 27.8 mg 9%
Sodium 833.3 mg 36%
Total Carbohydrates 69.4 g 25%
Dietary Fiber 2.8 g 10%
Sugars 5.6 g
protein 8.3 g 16%
Vitamin D 0 mcg 0%
Calcium 55.6 mg 4%
Iron 1.4 mg 7%
Potassium 138.9 mg 2%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Food Attributes

🍯 Low sugar

Source of Calories

49.5%
5.9%
44.6%
Fat: 250 cal (44.6%)
Protein: 33 cal (5.9%)
Carbs: 277 cal (49.5%)

About Hush puppies

Hush puppies are a traditional Southern U.S. dish, typically made from a seasoned cornmeal batter that is deep-fried into small, golden-brown balls. They are believed to have originated in the Southern United States, with ties to African, Native American, and Southern cuisine. These savory bites are often served as a side dish alongside fried fish or barbecue. Nutritionally, hush puppies are calorie-dense due to deep-frying, with carbohydrates from cornmeal being the primary macronutrient. They contain small amounts of vitamins and minerals such as iron and magnesium but are generally low in protein and fiber. Since they are fried, they are high in fats, particularly if made with saturated cooking oils. Moderation is key when enjoying this dish.

Health Benefits

  • Cornmeal provides a source of dietary iron, which supports oxygen transport in the blood.
  • Cornmeal contains magnesium, important for muscle and nerve function.
  • When made with whole-grain cornmeal, hush puppies can offer some B vitamins like niacin, which aids in energy metabolism.

Dietary Considerations

Allergens: Contains gluten (if wheat flour is added), dairy (if milk or butter is included), eggs
Suitable for: Vegetarian (if no meat-based additives are used)
Not suitable for: Gluten-free, vegan (unless made with substitutes), low-fat diets

Selection and Storage

Store leftover hush puppies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer to restore crispiness.

Common Questions About Hush puppies Nutrition

Are hush puppies high in protein?

Hush puppies are not particularly high in protein as they are made primarily from cornmeal and wheat flour. A standard serving of hush puppies (about 6 pieces) contains around 4-5 grams of protein. This makes them a modest source of protein but not significant compared to protein-rich foods like meat or legumes.

Can I eat hush puppies on a keto diet?

Hush puppies are not suitable for a keto diet. They are made from cornmeal and wheat flour, which are high in carbohydrates. A typical serving can contain around 30-35 grams of carbohydrates, which is too high for most ketogenic guidelines.

Are there any health concerns with eating hush puppies?

Hush puppies are deep-fried, which adds extra fat and calories. A typical serving can contain around 300-400 calories and 15-20 grams of fat, making them a less healthy choice if consumed frequently. Additionally, they are low in essential vitamins and minerals. Those concerned about sodium intake should also watch out, as hush puppies can contain 500-700 milligrams of sodium per serving.

What is a recommended portion size for hush puppies?

A recommended portion size for hush puppies is about 3-6 pieces, which equates to roughly 150-300 calories, depending on their size and preparation. To balance your meal, try pairing them with protein-rich or vegetable-based sides to add more nutrients.

How do hush puppies compare to cornbread or biscuits?

Hush puppies are similar to cornbread in flavor but have a denser, crispier texture due to being deep-fried. Compared to biscuits, hush puppies are less flaky and more corn-forward in taste. Hush puppies are higher in fat and calories than baked cornbread or biscuits due to the frying process, making cornbread a lighter option if you're watching calorie intake.

Data Sources & Scientific References

Our nutrition data comes from trusted, authoritative sources to ensure accuracy and reliability. Below are specific scientific references and authoritative sources for this food item.

  1. Dietary Fats and Fried Foods: Impacts on Health
    American Journal of Clinical Nutrition
    Explains health impacts of fried foods like hush puppies, focusing on fat content, calorie density, and potential effects on cardiovascular health.
  2. Added Sugars, Refined Grains, and Fried Foods in American Diets
    2020-2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans
    Discusses fried foods, including hush puppies, and their role in dietary patterns, recommending limiting fried and refined foods for better health outcomes.
  3. How Cooking Methods Alter Nutritional Values in Cornmeal-Based Foods
    North Carolina State University
    Examines frying's effects on the nutrient content of cornmeal-based foods, such as hush puppies, relevant to understanding their health impacts.

Additional Authoritative Sources:

Daily value percentages based on FDA guidelines. Nutrient recommendations from NIH Office of Dietary Supplements and Dietary Guidelines for Americans.

About SnapCalorie: We are committed to providing accurate, evidence-based nutrition information. Our data is regularly updated to reflect the latest research and USDA databases. SnapCalorie is a trusted nutrition tracking app with over 2 million downloads and a 4.8/5 star rating.