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Jalapeño-Goat-Cheese Hush Puppies

These spicy jalapeño and goat's cheese hush puppies offer a sophisticated twist on a classic Southern treat. Made with a base of golden cornmeal and buttermilk, the batter creates a wonderfully light and crisp texture. The addition of fresh jalapeño provides a subtle warmth, while the pockets of creamy, melted goat's cheese add a tangy richness that balances the sweetness of the corn.

This vegetarian snack is ideal for garden parties or as an adventurous side dish for a weekend feast. They are best served warm, perhaps with a drizzle of honey or a cooling sour cream dip to complement the heat. Because they can be prepared in advance and crisped up in the oven, they are a stress-free option for entertaining guests.

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Ingredients for Jalapeño-Goat-Cheese Hush Puppies

  • 130g yellow cornmeal

  • 1 1/2 tablespoons plain flour

  • 1 1/2 tablespoons sugar

  • 3/4 teaspoons coarse kosher salt

  • 1/2 teaspoons baking powder

  • 1/4 teaspoons bicarbonate of soda

  • 120ml buttermilk

  • 2 tablespoons beaten egg

  • 1 1/2 tablespoons chopped seeded jalapeño chilli

  • 110g coarsely crumbled soft fresh goat cheese (about 240ml )

  • Canola oil or vegetable oil (for deep-frying)

Whisk first 6 ingredients in medium bowl to blend. Whisk buttermilk, egg, and chilli in small bowl to blend. Stir buttermilk mixture and cheese into dry ingredients.

Add enough oil to deep medium saucepan to reach 1 1/2 inches. Attach deep-fry thermometer to pan; heat oil to 160°C to 166°C over medium heat. Working in batches of 4 or 5, drop batter by tablespoonfuls into oil. Cook until golden, turning occasionally, about 4 minutes. Using slotted spoon, transfer hush puppies to paper towels. DO AHEAD: Can be made 2 hours ahead. Let stand at room temperature. Rewarm until crisp in 191°C oven, 12 to 14 minutes.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 28 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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