Corn Fritters are a delicious and easy-to-make dish that can be enjoyed as a snack, appetizer, or side dish. These crispy golden fritters are made with sweet corn, eggs, flour, and cheese, providing a delightful combination of textures and flavors. Perfect for any occasion, they are quick to prepare and can be served hot with a variety of dips or sauces. Let's take a look at the ingredients you'll need to create these tasty fritters.
INGREDIENTS
- Whole Kernel Corn: 1 can, drained, providing the sweet and juicy base for the fritters.
- Eggs: 2, beaten, helping to bind the ingredients together.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste, seasoning the batter for balanced flavor.
- Flour: 1/2 cup, giving structure to the fritters.
- Baking Powder: 1 tsp, adding a light and fluffy texture.
- Shredded Cheese: 1/2 cup, adding a rich and cheesy element.
- Butter: 1 pat, for frying, adding a rich flavor.
- Oil: 2 tbsp, for frying, ensuring the fritters are crispy and golden.
- Chopped Parsley: 1/4 cup, for garnish, adding a fresh and vibrant touch.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- Drain the can of whole kernel corn and discard the liquid. Set the corn aside in a bowl.
- Step 2:
- In a separate mixing bowl, beat the eggs with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. This will season the fritter batter.
- Step 3:
- Add the flour and baking powder to the egg mixture. Whisk together until smooth, ensuring there are no lumps. The batter should be slightly thick but still pourable.
- Step 4:
- Stir in the drained corn and shredded cheese, mixing until everything is evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Step 5:
- Heat a fry-pan over medium heat. Add the butter and oil, allowing them to melt and become bubbly. This mixture will help fry the fritters to a golden brown color.
- Step 6:
- Drop spoonfuls of the corn mixture into the hot fry-pan, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook the fritters until golden brown on one side, about 2-3 minutes, then flip and cook the other side until golden, another 2-3 minutes.
- Step 7:
- Once cooked, remove the fritters from the pan and place them on absorbent paper to drain any excess oil. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley for a fresh touch. Enjoy!
Serving and Storage Tips
Corn Fritters are best served hot and crispy, fresh from the skillet. They make an excellent appetizer, snack, or side dish. Consider serving them with a variety of dipping sauces, such as sour cream, spicy mayo, or a tangy yogurt dip. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and crispy, or use a skillet to reheat on the stove.
Helpful Notes
For an extra kick, try adding finely chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the batter. You can also mix in some diced bell peppers for added color and sweetness. If you're looking for a healthier option, consider using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour. Additionally, you can experiment with different types of cheese, such as cheddar or pepper jack, to suit your taste preferences.
Tips from well-known chefs
Chef Alton Brown recommends draining the corn thoroughly to avoid excess moisture in the batter, which can prevent the fritters from crisping up.
Chef Ina Garten suggests using freshly grated cheese for a smoother melt and more intense flavor.
Chef Emeril Lagasse advises frying the fritters in small batches to maintain a consistent oil temperature and ensure even cooking.