Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a Southern twist on taco night! Our Hush Puppy Tacos are not just gluten-free; they’re a delightful fusion of crispy, golden hush puppies filled with savory meat and fresh toppings that will leave you craving more. Imagine biting into a warm, fluffy pocket bursting with flavor, perfectly paired with zesty salsa and crunchy veggies. This recipe is not only quick to prepare, taking just 35 minutes from start to finish, but it also serves up to four hungry diners. Don't miss out on this unique culinary adventure that will elevate your taco game to new heights!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Southern
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1/2 cup gluten-free flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup water
- Vegetable oil for frying
- 1 lb ground beef or meat substitute
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup salsa
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cornmeal, gluten-free flour, baking powder, and salt. Whisk dry ingredients thoroughly to ensure even distribution.
- Gradually add water to the dry mixture, stirring until a thick batter forms. The consistency should be similar to pancake batter - smooth and slightly sticky.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to ensure accurate temperature for perfect frying.
- Using a small ice cream scoop or spoon, drop small rounds of batter into the hot oil. Fry hush puppy balls for 2-3 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy on all sides.
- Remove hush puppies with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil. Set aside and keep warm.
- In a separate skillet, brown ground beef (or meat substitute) over medium-high heat, breaking it into small crumbles. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Prepare taco assembly station with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and salsa in separate bowls.
- To serve, split hush puppies partially open, creating a pocket. Fill with seasoned meat, top with lettuce, tomatoes, and salsa.
- Serve immediately while hush puppies are still warm and crispy for the best texture and flavor.
Tips
- Perfect the Batter: Ensure your batter is the right consistency—smooth and slightly sticky. If it's too thick, add a little more water; if too thin, add a touch more cornmeal.
- Temperature Check: Use a thermometer to maintain the oil temperature at 350°F (175°C). This is crucial for achieving that perfect golden-brown hush puppy without absorbing too much oil.
- Fry in Batches: Avoid overcrowding the skillet when frying. Frying in smaller batches allows the hush puppies to cook evenly and become perfectly crispy.
- Keep Them Warm: After frying, place the hush puppies on paper towels to absorb excess oil, then keep them warm in a low oven while you prepare the filling.
- Customize Your Fillings: Feel free to get creative with your taco fillings! Swap out the ground beef for shredded chicken, sautéed veggies, or even beans for a vegetarian option.
- Serve Immediately: For the best texture and flavor, serve the hush puppy tacos right after assembling them. This way, everyone can enjoy the delightful contrast of warm, crispy hush puppies and fresh toppings.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 75mg
