These Southwest-Style Corn Fritters are crispy, golden bites of corn, flavored with the bold and zesty spices of the Southwest. Combining sweet corn kernels with onions, jalapeños, and a touch of cheese, these fritters are perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side dish. Air-fried for a healthier option, they come out crispy on the outside, soft and flavorful on the inside, making them a great option for those looking for a quick, easy, and tasty treat with a southwestern flair.
Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 can (15 oz) sweet corn kernels, drained and rinsed
- ¼ cup finely chopped red onion
- 1 small jalapeño, finely chopped (seeds removed for less heat)
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon ground cumin
- ¼ teaspoon chili powder
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for spraying)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sweet corn, chopped onion, jalapeño, and cilantro. Stir in the egg, flour, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until the mixture comes together. The batter should be thick enough to hold its shape.
- Form the Fritters: Use your hands or a spoon to form small fritter patties (about 2 inches in diameter) from the batter. Place them on a plate or tray, ready for air frying.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Air-Fry the Fritters: Place the fritters in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook in batches if necessary. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the fritters are golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Serve the fritters hot, with a side of sour cream, salsa, or guacamole for dipping, if desired.
Cooking Time:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12-14 minutes
- Total Time: 22-24 minutes
Serving Size:
- Serves: 4-6 people (approximately 10-12 fritters, depending on size)
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving, Approx.):
- Calories: 150-170
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 300mg
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary depending on portion sizes and ingredient variations.
Key Notes:
- Customizable: You can add other vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or zucchini for variation. You can also adjust the level of spiciness by adding more or less jalapeño or using chili powder.
- Crispy Texture: Lightly spraying the fritters with olive oil before air frying ensures they become crispy without frying in a large amount of oil.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the fritter mixture in advance and refrigerate it for a few hours before cooking. This makes it a great option for meal prep.
- Dipping Sauce: Pair the fritters with a side of sour cream, guacamole, or a zesty salsa for extra flavor.
These Southwest-Style Corn Fritters are a fun and easy way to enjoy corn with a touch of Southwestern flair, and air frying makes them a healthier alternative to deep frying. Enjoy them as a snack, appetizer, or side dish!