Fried Cornbread Fritters are a delightful and savory treat that perfectly balances the sweetness of cornmeal with the savory flavors of scallions. These fritters are golden and crispy on the outside while being soft and fluffy on the inside, making them an irresistible snack or side dish. They are simple to prepare and make a wonderful addition to any meal. Let’s dive into the recipe and see how to create these delicious cornbread fritters step-by-step.
Ingredients
- 1 cup yellow cornmeal
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup chopped scallions (optional)
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cornmeal, all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and baking soda. Stir well to evenly distribute the ingredients.
- Add Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, egg, and granulated sugar until well combined.
- Combine Mixtures: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. If you’re using scallions, fold them into the batter at this stage. Be careful not to overmix.
Step 2: Heat the Oil
- Prepare Oil: In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. The oil should reach about 350°F (175°C) for frying. You can test the oil by dropping a small amount of batter into it; if it sizzles and rises to the surface, the oil is ready.
Step 3: Fry the Fritters
- Drop Batter: Using a spoon or small scoop, drop spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil. Be sure not to overcrowd the skillet, as this will lower the oil temperature and result in greasy fritters.
- Fry: Fry the fritters for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to turn them over halfway through cooking.
- Drain: Once the fritters are cooked, remove them from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
Step 4: Serve
- Serve Hot: Serve the fried cornbread fritters hot, with your favorite dipping sauce or as a side dish to complement your meal.
Cooking Notes
- Consistency: If the batter is too thick, you can add a little more buttermilk to reach the desired consistency. It should be thick but pourable.
- Flavor Additions: Feel free to add other ingredients to the batter for extra flavor, such as shredded cheese, diced jalapeños, or corn kernels.
- Frying: Maintain a consistent oil temperature to ensure even frying. If the oil gets too hot, the fritters may brown too quickly on the outside while remaining undercooked inside.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk? A: While buttermilk adds a tangy flavor and helps with the texture, you can use regular milk if needed. To mimic the acidity of buttermilk, add a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to a cup of regular milk and let it sit for a few minutes before using.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover fritters in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until they are heated through and crispy again.
Q: Can I freeze cornbread fritters? A: Yes, you can freeze cooked fritters. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag or container. Reheat them in the oven or air fryer to restore their crispiness.
Keto/Low Carb Version
To make a keto or low-carb version of Fried Cornbread Fritters, follow these modifications:
- Cornmeal: Replace the cornmeal with a mixture of almond flour and coconut flour.
- Flour: Use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour.
- Sugar: Replace granulated sugar with a keto-friendly sweetener like erythritol or stevia.
- Buttermilk: Use a low-carb buttermilk substitute by mixing heavy cream with a small amount of water and a splash of vinegar or lemon juice.
Fried Cornbread Fritters are a delicious and easy-to-make dish that adds a delightful crunch and savory flavor to any meal. Whether you enjoy them as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, these fritters are sure to please. Try this recipe today and enjoy the golden, crispy goodness of homemade cornbread fritters!
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