Grilled North Carolina Hush Puppies with Onion Butter

Introduction

If you're looking to take Southern comfort food to the next level, these Grilled North Carolina Hush Puppies with Onion Butter are sure to impress. Perfectly crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and kissed with the smoky heat of the Arteflame Grill, these hush puppies pack a punch of flavor. Topped with savory onion butter, they're ideal for backyard gatherings, BBQs, or as a comforting side to grilled meats. Grilling these on the Arteflame flat cooktop ensures an even golden crust and incredible flavor without any risk of burning.

Ingredients

• 1 cup cornmeal (yellow)
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• 3/4 cup buttermilk
• 1/2 cup finely chopped scallions
• 1/2 cup sweet corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
• 2 tbsp butter (for greasing griddle)
• For Onion Butter:
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup grilled sweet onion, finely chopped
• Pinch of salt

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame Grill

1. Place three paper napkins in the grill bowl and soak them with vegetable oil.
2. Stack firewood on top of the oiled napkins.
3. Light the napkins and let the firewood catch. The grill will be ready in about 20 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Hush Puppy Batter

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cayenne pepper.
2. Stir in the buttermilk and beaten egg until combined.
3. Fold in the chopped scallions and sweet corn kernels.

Step 3: Shape the Hush Puppies

1. Let the batter sit for 5 minutes to firm up slightly.
2. Using two spoons, shape the batter into small round mounds about 1.5 inches in diameter.

Step 4: Grill the Onions and Make Onion Butter

1. Chop a sweet onion into thick slices and grill them on the Arteflame flat griddle near the center for caramelization, flipping occasionally, until golden brown (7-10 minutes).
2. Chop the grilled onions finely and blend them with softened butter and a pinch of salt. Set aside.

Step 5: Grill the Hush Puppies

1. Add a tablespoon of butter to the Arteflame flat cooktop near the center.
2. Place the hush puppy mounds onto the spot where the butter is sizzling.
3. Cook each one for 3-4 minutes per side, turning until golden brown and crispy.
4. Move the cooked hush puppies further outward on the cooktop to keep them warm while finishing the rest.

Tips

• Use the hot center zones of the griddle to get a quick crust, then slide your hush puppies to cooler zones to finish cooking gently.
• Use butter, not oil, for cleaner flavor and better browning.
• Don’t overcrowd the griddle; maintain space for flipping.
• Keep the onion butter in a warm spot on the grill to stay spreadable.

Variations

• Jalapeño-Cheddar Hush Puppies: Add 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar and 1 minced jalapeño to the batter.
• Herbed Hush Puppies: Mix chopped parsley, thyme, and dill into the batter for a bright, herby twist.
• Sweet Potato Hush Puppies: Replace half the cornmeal with mashed sweet potato and reduce buttermilk slightly.
• Smoked Bacon Hush Puppies: Fold in 1/4 cup grilled, chopped bacon for added depth and smokiness.
• Crab-Stuffed Hush Puppies: Add 1/4 cup picked crab meat and a touch of Old Bay seasoning for coastal delight.

Best pairings

• Pair with grilled Carolina pulled pork or seared ribeye for an unbeatable Southern BBQ plate.
• Enjoy with tangy coleslaw and pickled vegetables to balance the richness.
• Serve alongside sweet tea or a cold craft pilsner.

Conclusion

These Grilled North Carolina Hush Puppies with Onion Butter are a bold twist on a beloved Southern staple. Smoky, crisp, and bursting with flavor, they’re a backyard legend in the making. Grilled entirely on the Arteflame, there’s no frying, no oven, and no extra cleanup — just solid Southern flavor the easy way.