Are you craving a comforting, flavorful, and surprisingly easy dinner? Look no further! These cheesy corn fritters are the perfect solution for a quick weeknight meal or a delightful weekend brunch. Packed with the sweetness of corn and the satisfying richness of cheese, these fritters are incredibly versatile and guaranteed to be a hit with everyone. They're also a fantastic way to use up leftover corn – making them a budget-friendly choice too! Get ready to enjoy this simple yet impressive recipe for healthy and delicious homemade cooking.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup fresh or frozen corn kernels (thawed if frozen)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese!)
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons butter or oil, for cooking
- Optional: Chopped green onions for garnish, sour cream or salsa for serving
Instructions:
Step 1: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the milk and egg until well combined.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.
Step 4: Add Corn and Cheese
Stir in the corn kernels and grated cheese.
Step 5: Cook the Fritters
Heat the butter or oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, drop spoonfuls of the corn mixture into the skillet, leaving some space between each fritter.
Step 6: Flip and Brown
Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Flip carefully using a spatula.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve the cheesy corn fritters immediately. Garnish with chopped green onions, if desired. These are delicious on their own, or served with a dollop of sour cream or a side of salsa.
Cooking Tips for the Best Cheesy Corn Fritters:
- Don't overmix the batter: Overmixing will make the fritters tough. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste: Feel free to add more or less salt and pepper, or experiment with other herbs and spices.
- Use your favorite cheese: Cheddar is classic, but Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a Mexican blend would also be delicious.
- For extra flavor: Add a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder to the batter.
- Crispy fritters: Ensure the pan is hot before adding the batter. This will help create a crispy exterior.
Variations:
- Spicy Corn Fritters: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeño to the batter for a spicy kick.
- Vegetable Corn Fritters: Add diced bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots to the batter for extra vegetables.
- Bacon Corn Fritters: Crumble cooked bacon into the batter for a savory and smoky flavor.
Nutritional Information (per fritter, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 100-120
- Protein: 3-4g
- Fat: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 15-18g
These cheesy corn fritters are a simple, healthy, and delicious meal perfect for a quick dinner or a fun weekend treat. They're also easily adaptable to your preferences and dietary needs, making them a versatile addition to your recipe collection. Enjoy!