Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsChar Bar - WestportCheesy “hushpuppies” Recipe

Cheesy “hushpuppies” Recipe

Time1h
Serves4

stone-ground grits fritters, beer blanc, jalapeño jam

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Ingredients

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Hushpuppies

Jalapeño Jam

Method

Hushpuppies

  1. 1

    Prepare the Grits

    In a medium saucepan, bring 3 cups of water to a boil. Stir in 1 cup of stone-ground grits and reduce heat to low. Cook, stirring frequently, until the grits are thickened (about 20-25 minutes). Remove from heat and stir in 1 cup of cheddar cheese until melted. Let cool slightly.

  2. 2

    Mix the Batter

    In a large bowl, combine the cooled grits, 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 tsp of baking powder, 0.5 tsp of salt, 0.5 tsp of black pepper, 0.5 cup of diced jalapeño, and 1 beaten egg. Mix until well combined.

  3. 3

    Fry the Hushpuppies

    In a large pot, heat 4 cups of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Drop batter by tablespoonfuls into the hot oil, frying in batches until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Remove and drain on paper towels.

Beer Blanc

  1. 4

    Sauté the Aromatics

    In a saucepan, melt 2 tbs of butter over medium heat. Add 1 minced shallot and 2 minced garlic cloves, cooking until translucent (about 3-4 minutes).

  2. 5

    Add Beer and Cream

    Pour in 1 cup of beer and bring to a simmer. Let reduce for 5 minutes, then stir in 1 cup of heavy cream. Cook until slightly thickened, about 5-7 minutes. Season with 0.5 tsp of salt and 0.25 tsp of black pepper.

  3. 6

    Finish the Sauce

    Stir in 2 tbs of chopped fresh parsley just before serving.

Jalapeño Jam

  1. 7

    Cook the Jalapeños

    In a saucepan, combine 1 cup of sliced jalapeños, 1 cup of sugar, 0.5 cup of apple cider vinegar, and 0.25 tsp of salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat.

  2. 8

    Thicken the Jam

    Reduce heat and let simmer for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and let cool.

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