Makes 12 servings | Category: Keto Appetizers & Snacks

INGREDIENTS

PIMIENTO MAYO:

  • ½ cup mayonnaise, homemade or store bought
  • 2 tbsp jarred pimientos, drained
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp paprika

HUSH PUPPIES:

  • 1 cup powdered Parmesan cheese (recipe notes), plus more if needed
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 30g (1 oz) cream cheese (2 tbsp), softened
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • 2 tbsp minced onions
  • 2 tbsp jarred pimientos, drained
  • ⅓ cup finely shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • ½ to 1 cup lard or coconut oil, for frying

INSTRUCTIONS

  1. To make the pimiento mayo, whisk together all the ingredients in a small bowl until well combined. Taste and adjust the flavour balance as desired. (Note: The mayo can be made up to 2 days ahead of time and refrigerated in an airtight container.)
  2. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the powdered Parmesan and baking powder to make the hush puppies. Combine the softened cream cheese, beaten egg, and onions in a mixing bowl. Combine the pimientos and cheddar cheese in a mixing bowl. If the mixture is too soft to form into a ball, cover and chill it; it will firm up as it cools. If the dough is still too soft after chilling, add 1/4 cup more powdered Parmesan.
  3. When you're ready to fry the hush puppies, pour 1/2 cup lard into the tallest, thinnest pot you have. Heat the lard over medium-high heat to 190°C/375°F. The hot fat should be at least 1 1/2 inches deep; if necessary, add more lard to the pot.
  4. Form 2 tbsp of the hush puppy dough into a 1-inch ball. Drop a few balls at a time into the hot fat with a spoon. Fry for 4 minutes, or until golden brown. Remove from the heat and place on a paper towel-lined plate. Repeat with the rest of the hush puppies.
  5. Serve the hush puppies with the pimiento mayo on a serving platter.
  6. Refrigerate extra hush puppies and mayo in separate airtight containers for up to 3 days.
  7. To reheat the hush puppies, either place them in a preheated 180°C/350°F oven or fry them in a greased skillet on all sides for about 5 minutes, or until warmed through.

NUTRITIONAL VALUES

  • Calories: 83kcal
  • Fat: 2.9g (0g S.Fat)
  • Carbs: 2.1g
  • Protein: 11.8g
  • Sugar: 0.8g
  • Sodium: 798mg