Corn fritters are a delicious and crispy snack that can be enjoyed as a side dish or an appetizer. Made with fresh corn and a few simple ingredients, these fritters are perfect for any occasion. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the step-by-step process of making corn fritters, provide helpful cooking notes, and offer variations to suit different tastes.
Ingredients
- 2 large ears of fresh corn, with their husks and silks removed
- 4 medium scallions, finely chopped
- 6 tablespoons of flour
- 1 large egg, whisked
- 2 tablespoons of heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 cup of vegetable oil
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Corn
- Remove the Kernels:
- Using a sharp knife, carefully cut the kernels off the corn cobs. Place the kernels in a large mixing bowl.
Step 2: Prepare the Batter
- Add Scallions:
- Finely chop the scallions and add them to the bowl with the corn kernels.
- Add Dry Ingredients:
- Add the flour and salt to the bowl. Stir until the corn and scallions are evenly coated with the flour.
- Add Wet Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg and heavy cream. Pour this mixture into the bowl with the corn and flour mixture. Stir until all the ingredients are well combined and the batter is formed.
Step 3: Fry the Fritters
- Heat the Oil:
- In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it is hot but not smoking.
- Drop Batter into Oil:
- Using a spoon or small scoop, drop spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil. Be careful not to overcrowd the skillet; fry the fritters in batches if necessary.
- Fry Until Golden:
- Fry the fritters for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fritters to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
Step 4: Serve
- Serve Hot:
- Serve the corn fritters hot, garnished with additional chopped scallions if desired. Enjoy them on their own or with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cook Notes and Variations
Cook Notes:
- Corn: Fresh corn is best for this recipe, but you can also use canned or frozen corn if fresh is not available. If using canned or frozen corn, be sure to drain and dry the kernels well before using.
- Oil Temperature: Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the batter. If the oil is not hot enough, the fritters will absorb too much oil and become greasy.
Variations:
- Cheesy Corn Fritters:
- Add 1/2 cup of grated cheese (such as cheddar or Parmesan) to the batter for a cheesy twist.
- Spicy Corn Fritters:
- Add 1 finely chopped jalapeño or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the batter for some heat.
- Herbed Corn Fritters:
- Add 1 tablespoon of fresh herbs (such as cilantro, parsley, or basil) to the batter for added flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make corn fritters ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the batter ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to cook, just give the batter a good stir and proceed with frying.
2. How do I store leftover fritters?
Store any leftover fritters in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven before serving.
3. Can I freeze corn fritters?
Yes, you can freeze cooked fritters. Let them cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer the frozen fritters to a freezer-safe bag or container. Reheat in the oven before serving.
4. What can I serve with corn fritters?
Corn fritters are delicious on their own but can also be served with sour cream, salsa, guacamole, or a sweet chili sauce for dipping.
5. Can I bake corn fritters instead of frying?
Yes, you can bake the fritters. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the fritters on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly spray the fritters with cooking spray and bake for 10-15 minutes on each side, or until golden and crispy.
Corn fritters are a delightful and crispy snack that’s perfect for any occasion. With their sweet corn flavor and crispy exterior, these fritters are sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re making them for a party, a family dinner, or just as a treat for yourself, this recipe is easy to follow and full of delicious flavors. Give these corn fritters a try and enjoy a comforting and tasty treat. Happy cooking!