Step 1

Add about 3 inches of oil to the bottom of heavy bottom dutch oven or deep skillet - being sure the oil doesn't come more than halfway up the side of the vessel. Heat to 350°F.

Step 2

While the oil is heating, combine the onion, cornmeal, flour, sugar, and salt together in a medium bowl.

Step 3

In a small bowl, whisk the egg into the buttermilk. Add to the dry mixture and stir until just combined. Allow the batter to rest for about 5 minutes.

Step 4

Drop the batter by heaping tablespoonsful carefully into the hot oil and fry for 5 to 6 minutes, turning over once, or until golden brown and cooked through. Drain on a wire rack over paper towels. Working in batches, being sure not to cook too many at one time as the oil temp will drop and the hush puppies will end up greasy. Be sure to adjust the heat to keep the oil at about 350°F.