Easy Corn Fritters Recipe
Corn fritters are a quick and satisfying snack or side dish that’s full of flavor. This recipe brings together the sweetness of corn, the richness of cheese, and a light crispiness from frying. With simple ingredients and a few easy steps, you’ll have golden fritters ready in no time. Perfect for any occasion, these fritters can be served as appetizers, a side dish, or even as a snack on their own!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 20 minutes.
- Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples like canned corn and eggs.
- Versatile: Enjoy them as a side dish, snack, or appetizer.
- Cheesy Delight: The melted cheese adds a delicious richness to each bite.
Ingredients:
- 1 can whole kernel corn, drained (about 15 oz)
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- ½ cup flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your favorite variety)
- 1 pat butter (about 1 tbsp)
- 2 tbsp oil (for frying)
- ¼ cup chopped parsley (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Directions:
Step 1: Drain the Corn
Start by draining the liquid from the can of corn. You want the corn kernels to be relatively dry so they hold together in the batter.
Step 2: Prepare the Batter
In a medium bowl, beat the eggs and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in the flour and baking powder until smooth, ensuring no lumps remain. The batter should be thick but still pourable.
Step 3: Add Corn and Cheese
Gently fold in the drained corn and shredded cheese into the batter. Make sure everything is well combined so each fritter has a good mix of corn and cheese.
Step 4: Heat the Oil and Butter
In a large skillet, heat the oil and butter over medium heat. The combination of butter and oil helps to give the fritters a golden, crispy finish while also adding flavor.
Step 5: Fry the Fritters
Once the pan is hot, spoon portions of the corn mixture into the skillet, making each fritter about 2-3 inches wide. Flatten them slightly with the back of the spoon to help them cook evenly. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
Step 6: Drain and Serve
Once the fritters are cooked, transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Tips for the Best Corn Fritters:
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry in batches to ensure the fritters cook evenly and get crispy.
- Add a Kick: For a little heat, stir in a pinch of chili flakes or finely chopped jalapeños to the batter.
- Try Different Cheeses: While cheddar works great, you can experiment with mozzarella, pepper jack, or Parmesan for different flavor profiles.
- Make it Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
FAQs
Can I use fresh or frozen corn instead of canned corn?
Yes, you can! If using fresh corn, cut it off the cob and use about 1 ½ cups of kernels. If using frozen corn, thaw it completely and drain off any excess moisture before adding it to the batter.
Can I make these fritters ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the batter ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to cook, simply spoon the mixture into the hot pan. You can also cook the fritters ahead of time and reheat them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.
What can I serve with corn fritters?
These fritters are delicious on their own, but you can also serve them with a side of sour cream, salsa, or a drizzle of honey for a sweet and savory combination.
How can I make these fritters lighter?
For a lighter version, you can reduce the amount of cheese or omit it altogether. You can also try baking the fritters in the oven at 375°F for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these Corn Fritters are a delightful treat. Whether served as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, they’re sure to please any crowd with their cheesy goodness and golden, crispy texture. Enjoy!