Georgia-Style Grilled Hush Puppies on the Arteflame

Introduction

Hush puppies are a Southern favorite, and grilling them on the Arteflame takes them to a whole new level. By cooking them on the flat steel cooktop, you get a perfectly crispy texture without burning. Whether as a side dish or a delicious snack, these Georgia-style grilled hush puppies bring that classic deep-fried flavor without the oil. Get ready for some golden brown, smoky goodness!

Ingredients

• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp sugar
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 2 tbsp chopped chives
• Butter for grilling

Instructions

Step 1: Light the Arteflame grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them in the center of your Arteflame grill.
2. Stack firewood over the soaked napkins.
3. Light the paper napkins and allow the fire to establish.
4. Wait about 20 minutes for the grill to reach the optimal cooking temperature.

Step 2: Prepare the hush puppy batter

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, sugar, and cayenne (if using).
2. In a separate bowl, mix the buttermilk, egg, chopped onion, and melted butter.
3. Gradually stir the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until a thick batter forms.
4. Fold in the chopped chives.

Step 3: Get the Arteflame flat cooktop ready

1. Add a generous amount of butter to the flat cooktop griddle, letting it melt evenly.
2. Find the medium-heat section of the griddle closer to the center for an even cook.

Step 4: Grill the hush puppies

1. Using a spoon or small scoop, place dollops of the batter onto the buttered griddle.
2. Let them cook until golden brown on one side, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Carefully flip them with a spatula and cook for another 3-4 minutes until crispy.
4. Remove from the grill when golden brown and crispy all over.

Tips

• Keep the hush puppies small so they're easier to flip and cook evenly.
• Use butter for grilling instead of oil for extra flavor.
• Cook near the center for a crispier texture, but adjust position if cooking too fast.
• Serve immediately for the best texture and taste.

Variations

1. Cheese Lovers: Mix in 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar for a cheesy twist.
2. Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños for an extra kick of heat.
3. Southern Sweet: Increase the sugar to 1 tablespoon for a sweeter version.
4. Seafood Delight: Mix in some finely chopped shrimp or crab meat for a coastal taste.
5. Herb Infusion: Add fresh parsley and dill for a fresh, herbaceous touch.

Conclusion

Grilling hush puppies on the Arteflame transforms their texture, creating a crisp and flavorful twist on this Southern classic. Serve them fresh off the grill and enjoy that delicious, smoky crunch!

Best Pairings

• Grilled catfish or shrimp
• Homemade coleslaw
• Creamy tartar sauce
• Sweet tea or a light white wine like Sauvignon Blanc