Buttermilk Hushpuppies
1 cup cornmeal
1/2 cup (2 1/2 ounces) all purpose flour
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 1/4 teaspoons salt
1/4 teaspoon cayenne
1 small onion, minced (about 1/4 cup)
1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons buttermilk
1 tablespoon (1/2 ounce) unsalted butter, melted
1 teaspoon hot sauce
2 tablespoons chopped scallions (optional)
Oil for frying
Remoulade Sauce:
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 teaspoon mustard
3/4 teaspoon sugar
1/4 teaspoon cayenne
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon fresh juice from one lemon
1 to 2 teaspoons hot sauce
1 tablespoon chopped scallions
Procedures
Make Remoulade sauce: Stir all ingredients in a bowl until combined. Season to taste and set aside.
Make hushpuppies: Stir cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cayenne in a medium bowl. Add onion, buttermilk, melted butter, hot sauce, and scallions (if using), and then stir until just combined.
Pour oil into a heavy duty pot to 2 inches deep. Heat over medium high heat until temperature reaches 375°F. Working in batches, gently roll dough into golf ball-sized balls and carefully lower into hot oil using a slotted spoon. Take care not to crowd pot. Fry until golden brown and cooked through, turning with wooden spoon for even browning, 2 to 3 minutes. Serve warm hushpuppies plain or with remoulade dipping sauce.