The Legend of the Hush Puppy
No fish fry plate, barbecue platter, or shrimp basket is complete without a batch of hot and fresh hush puppies. An American classic, the corn meal-based deep-fried balls with the quirky name are a timeless choice beloved by all. While this iconic dish tends to be found in Southern cuisine, the origin story of hush puppies is somewhat debatable. Some say hush puppies were developed by French nuns in New Orleans while others believe they were invented by Confederate soldiers. In this post, we look back at some of the most popular hush puppy stories and legends – both far and wide. Think you know where hush puppies came from? Check out some of the most famous origin stories and let us know what you think!
Origins of the Term Hush Puppy
There are several theories surrounding when hush puppies originated. Some stories say they appeared in the 18th century while others believe they were invented during the Civil War era. The term ‘hush puppy’ however, most likely dates back to before the fried dough balls dish was even created. In 18th century England, the phrase ‘hushpuppy’ was used to describe the act of silencing a person or covering something up. One account from 1738 describes a situation where crooked British officials boarded a boat to search the vessel for smuggling and “played the game of hush-puppy,” delaying the search for several hours so the crew had the chance to hide the boat’s contraband. The term eventually crossed the pond, making its way to America where it was used in newspapers and other accounts, continuing to refer to cover ups.
French Nuns
One of the earliest origin stories of the corn meal balls in North America credits French nuns in New Orleans in the early 18th century for the delicious dish. As the story goes, nuns discovered corn meal from local American Indian tribes and from them learned to create corn patties named croquettes de maise. Eventually the name evolved into hush puppies and from there spread throughout the American South.
Civil War
Other famous theories on the hush puppy origins come from the Civil War era. With the Southern economy in shambles, corn bread, in several different forms, was an inexpensive way in the South to get food on the table both in civilian households and also for soldiers. As one story goes, Confederate soldiers were preparing dinner around the campfire and heard the footsteps of Union soldiers approaching. To quiet their barking dogs, the Confederates gave them pieces of fried cornmeal and ordered them to “hush, puppies.” No one knows what happened after that, but it can be speculated that at least some of the Confederates were successful in quieting their dogs and lived to tell the tale, bringing with them the hush puppy fried corn meal balls.
Another variation on the story from the era credits escaping slaves with devising the hush puppy name. While trying to make it to freedom in the Northern states, individuals would fry up corn meal batter and throw it to quiet any lingering watchdogs on their way to the North. The fried treats would distract the dogs as they escaped to freedom.
Red Horse Bread
The famous culinarian, Romeo Govan, is also credited with the creation of a variation of hush puppies in another tale. A former slave who was freed after the Civil War, Govan served fish fries during fishing season with a side of his infamous ‘red horse bread.’ Red horse fish were found in abundance in South Carolina rivers and were commonly served at fish fries. Apparently, globs of corn meal were fried in the same grease as the red horse fish and served as a side, hence the name red horse bread. In the 1920s a variation of this recipe was first recorded in Georgia using the name hush puppy.
Fishing and Hunting
Other hush puppy origin stories credit the many fishermen and hunters for the invention of the dish. Hunters were known to carry fried fritters on hunting trips to give their hunting dogs when they were needed to be quiet. This was especially used in tense situations like when taking aim or stalking an animal and they did not want the distraction of a barking dog.
Additionally, after returning from their latest fishing trips, fishermen would typically fry up their latest catch to enjoy. The problem was however, their dogs would be by their side begging at the table. To keep their hungry dogs quiet, fishermen would fry up corn batter balls to feed their canines.
Salamanders, also known as ‘mud puppies’ in Southern Louisiana are aquatic animals in the area that were often caught, battered and fried. In another legend, mud puppies were thought to be a somewhat lowly delicacy which many Louisianans did not want to talk about, thus being named ‘hush puppies.’ Obviously from here, the dish may have evolved to the fried balls we know and love today – sans salamander.
A Southern Favorite
While the origin of hush puppies may still be up for debate, it’s a well-known fact that these crispy fried corn meal balls are a necessity at any fish fry or barbecue. While many may have their own version of the hush puppy – some sweeter, some savory or spicy – all are typically always crispy on the outside, soft and doughy on the inside, and simply delicious.
Professor Torbert’s hush puppies recipe is a little bit of both – a savory base including bacon and cheddar cheese mixed in with a hint of sweetness from sugar and creamed corn – the perfect balance for your next fish fry or backyard barbecue.
Have your own version of the hush puppies recipe? Grab a bag of Orange Corn meal today and get cooking! Feel free to also check out Professor Torbert’s recipe library for more kitchen inspiration and Orange Corn favorites.
Still curious? Check out these additional resources for more information:
Where Did Hush Puppies Come From? (southernliving.com)
Hush puppy | Southern, Cornmeal, Fried | Britannica
The Real History of Hushpuppies (seriouseats.com)
The True Origin Of Hushpuppies (mashed.com)
What Are Hush Puppies? And How to Make Hush Puppies | Cooking School | Food Network
