It starts with James heading out, tackle box in one hand, that quiet determination in the other. The kind of look that says, “I’ll be back with something.” And sure enough, more times than not... he is.

Fish in hand. Story to tell. That proud little grin he tries to hide but never really can.

And somehow, without even saying it out loud, I already know what kind of night it’s going to be.

We’re frying fish.

The kind where the kitchen fills up fast. Kids running in and out, someone asking “when’s it ready,” grease warming on the stove, and me standing there reaching for the cornmeal like muscle memory.

Because if there’s fish... there better be hush puppies.

Always.

Southern Honey Butter Hush Puppies

Ingredients

Dry:

1 cup yellow cornmeal

½ cup all-purpose flour

1 tbsp sugar

1 tsp baking powder

1 tsp baking soda

1 tsp salt

Sprinkle of Southern Magic Seasoning 

Wet:

¾ cup buttermilk

1 egg

2 tbsp melted butter

1 tbsp honey

Mix-ins:

¼ cup finely grated onion

2 tbsp chopped green onions

¼ cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned drained)

Optional (but SO good):

¼ cup shredded cheddar

1-2 tbsp finely diced jalapeño

Sprinkle of ranch seasoning 

For frying:

Oil (vegetable or peanut)

Instructions

1. Heat your oil

Bring oil to 350-365°F

(This is key-too low = greasy, too hot = raw centers)

2. Mix the batter

In one bowl: whisk all dry ingredients

In another: whisk buttermilk, egg, melted butter, and honey

Combine wet + dry gently (don’t overmix)

Fold in:

Onion, green onions, corn and optional goodies

Batter should be thick but scoopable (like a soft drop biscuit)

3. Let it rest

Let batter sit 10-15 minutes

This hydrates the cornmeal and makes them tender instead of gritty.

4. Fry

Drop by spoonfuls (or small scoop) into hot oil

Don’t overcrowd

Fry 2-3 minutes, turning until golden brown

5. Finish

Pull out onto paper towels

Sprinkle with a pinch of salt while hot

Optional “Southern Honey Butter Drizzle”

2 tbsp melted butter

1 tbsp honey

Tiny pinch of salt

Drizzle lightly over warm hush puppies

Not soaking, just a kiss