Are you looking for a quick, easy, and incredibly delicious side dish that will impress your family and friends? Look no further! This fried cream corn recipe is the perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors, offering a delightful textural contrast that's both comforting and exciting. Forget those bland, boiled corn sides – this recipe elevates the humble corn cob to a whole new level of deliciousness. It's perfect for a weeknight dinner, a summer barbecue, or any occasion where you want to serve something truly special. This healthy meal is also surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner cooks. Let's get started!
Ingredients:
- 4 ears of fresh sweet corn, shucked
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil, for frying
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Prepare the Corn: Cut the kernels off the corn cobs, ensuring you scrape down the cob to get all the creamy goodness. Set aside.
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Make the Batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg and milk. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, whisking until just combined. Don't overmix – a few lumps are okay.
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Combine Corn and Batter: Gently fold the corn kernels into the batter until they are evenly coated.
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Fry the Corn: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully drop spoonfuls of the corn mixture into the skillet. Fry for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Don't overcrowd the pan; work in batches if necessary.
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Melt the Butter and Add Cheese (Optional): While the corn is frying, melt the butter in a separate small skillet over low heat. Once melted, stir in the Parmesan cheese (if using) until it's melted and smooth.
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Serve: Remove the fried corn from the skillet and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Drizzle with the melted butter and Parmesan cheese mixture. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Tips for the Best Fried Cream Corn:
- Fresh Corn is Best: Using fresh, sweet corn will significantly enhance the flavor of this dish.
- Don't Overmix the Batter: Overmixing can result in tough corn fritters.
- Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of salt and pepper to your liking. You can also add other spices, such as garlic powder or paprika.
- Control the Heat: Maintain medium-high heat while frying to ensure even cooking and a crispy exterior.
Variations:
- Spicy Fried Corn: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the batter for a spicy kick.
- Cheesy Fried Corn: Increase the amount of Parmesan cheese or add other cheeses like cheddar or Monterey Jack.
- Herb-Infused Fried Corn: Add fresh herbs like chives, dill, or oregano to the batter for an extra layer of flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary based on serving size and specific ingredients used. For a more precise calculation, use a nutrition calculator and input your specific ingredients and quantities. However, as a general guideline, expect this dish to be a moderate source of carbohydrates, with a good amount of protein and fiber from the corn.
This fried cream corn recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and quick dinner ideas. It's a delicious and healthy dish that's perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!