Are you looking for a quick and easy side dish that's both delicious and impressive? Look no further! These creamed corn fritters are the perfect solution. They're surprisingly simple to make, requiring minimal ingredients and effort, yet they deliver a burst of flavor and satisfying texture that will elevate any meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, these fritters are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Let's dive into this simple yet flavorful recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup creamed corn (canned or homemade)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons butter, for frying
- Optional: 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese, chopped chives for garnish
Instructions:
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Combine Wet Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the creamed corn, milk, and egg until well combined. This ensures a smooth batter.
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Add Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and pepper. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can lead to tough fritters. If using cheese, add it now.
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Heat the Pan: Melt the butter in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Ensure the butter is melted and the pan is hot before adding the fritters.
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Fry the Fritters: Drop spoonfuls of the batter (about 1/4 cup each) onto the hot skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Avoid overcrowding the pan; work in batches if necessary.
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Drain and Serve: Once cooked, remove the fritters from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh chives or a sprinkle of extra cheese, if desired. These are wonderful served alongside grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad.
Tips for the Best Creamed Corn Fritters:
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Don't overmix the batter: Overmixing develops gluten, resulting in tough fritters. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
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Adjust the seasoning: Feel free to adjust the salt and pepper to your taste. You could also add other spices like garlic powder or onion powder for extra flavor.
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Control the heat: Medium heat is ideal for cooking the fritters evenly. Too high, and they’ll burn on the outside before cooking through; too low, and they’ll be soggy.
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Use fresh corn: If you have access to fresh corn, feel free to make your own creamed corn by boiling the corn, cutting it off the cob, and blending it with a little milk or cream.
Variations:
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Spicy Fritters: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the batter for a spicy kick.
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Herby Fritters: Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or cilantro into the batter for a fresh, herbaceous flavor.
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Vegetable Fritters: Add finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or zucchini to the batter for added nutrients and texture.
Nutritional Information (per fritter, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 100-120
- Fat: Approximately 5-7g
- Protein: Approximately 3-4g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-18g
These creamed corn fritters are a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. They're quick to prepare, delicious to eat, and adaptable to your preferences. Enjoy!