If you're looking for a flavorful and filling appetizer to serve at your next party or gathering, consider making street corn fritters with a delicious sauce. These tasty bites combine the traditional flavors of Mexican street corn with a crispy fried texture, making them a crowd-pleaser every time. Plus, with just one serving, you'll get a satisfying meal that clocks in at 610 calories.

Not only are these fritters delicious, but they also pack a nutritional punch. Corn is a good source of fiber and essential vitamins, while the other ingredients in the fritters and sauce provide protein, healthy fats, and more vitamins and minerals. Plus, by making your own homemade fritters, you can control the ingredients and limit added sugars or unhealthy fats.

In this article, we'll explore everything you need to know about making street corn fritters and the flavorful sauce that takes them to the next level.

What are Street Corn Fritters?

Street corn fritters are a twist on the popular Mexican street food known as elote or grilled corn on the cob. Traditionally, elote is seasoned with mayonnaise, cheese, chili powder, and lime juice, but street corn fritters add a crunchy coating and a convenient bite-sized form. The fritters are made by mixing corn kernels and batter, then frying them until golden brown. They are usually served as an appetizer or snack, often with a creamy or spicy sauce for dipping.

The Sauce that Makes it Better

The sauce is an essential part of the street corn fritter experience, and there are many variations you can try. One popular option is to make a tangy and slightly spicy crema by mixing sour cream or Greek yogurt with lime juice, chili powder, and other seasonings. Another option is to make a smoky and flavorful chipotle sauce by blending chipotle peppers in adobo sauce with mayonnaise or Greek yogurt, lime juice, and spices. You can also try a more traditional ranch dressing or a zesty salsa for dipping.

How to Make Street Corn Fritters

Making street corn fritters is easier than you might think. Here's a basic recipe to get you started:

1. Shuck 2-3 ears of fresh corn and use a sharp knife to remove the kernels from the cob.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the corn kernels with 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/4 teaspoon of paprika, and a pinch of cayenne pepper (optional).
3. Add 1 beaten egg and 1/2 cup of milk or buttermilk, and stir until well combined.
4. In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat enough oil to fully submerge the fritters. Once the oil is hot (between 350-375°F), use a spoon or cookie scoop to drop small balls of batter into the oil.
5. Fry the fritters for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove the fritters from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

You can also experiment with different types of flour, including cornmeal or almond flour, and add in other ingredients like green onions, jalapeños, or cheese for extra flavor.

The Ingredients You Need

To make street corn fritters, you'll need a few key ingredients:

• Fresh corn kernels (either cut from the cob or frozen and thawed)
• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Egg
• Milk or buttermilk
• Salt
• Paprika
• Cayenne pepper (optional)
• Oil for frying (canola or vegetable oil works well)
• Sauce ingredients (depending on which sauce you choose to make)

Be sure to check your pantry and fridge for these items before heading to the store, so you save time and money on your ingredients.

Frying Tips for Perfect Fritters

Frying foods can be a bit finicky, but these tips can help you achieve perfectly crispy and delicious street corn fritters:

• Use a thermometer to make sure the oil is between 350-375°F before adding the batter. If the oil is too hot, the fritters may burn on the outside before the inside cooks through, and if it's too cool, the fritters may become greasy and soggy.
• Don't overcrowd the pan or fryer. Only add a few fritters at a time, so they have enough space to fry evenly without sticking together.
• Use a slotted spoon or wire mesh strainer to flip and remove the fritters from the oil, so excess oil can drip off.
• Season the fritters with salt immediately after frying, while they are still hot and oily, so the salt sticks well.

Serving Suggestions for a Complete Meal

While street corn fritters make a great appetizer or snack on their own, you can also serve them as part of a complete meal. Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Pair the fritters with a fresh salad or slaw for a crunchy and refreshing contrast.
• Add some black beans or rice to the side for extra protein and carbs.
• Top the fritters with guacamole or pico de gallo for extra flavor and nutrients.
• Serve the fritters alongside grilled shrimp or chicken for a more substantial meal.

A Healthier Alternative

If you're looking to make street corn fritters a bit healthier, there are a few modifications you can make:

• Use whole wheat flour or almond flour instead of all-purpose flour for a boost of fiber and protein.
• Substitute nonfat Greek yogurt or sour cream for the mayonnaise in the sauce to cut down on fat and calories.
• Bake the fritters instead of frying them to eliminate excess oil and reduce calories.
• Serve the fritters with a fresh fruit salad or vegetables instead of heavy sides like rice and beans.

How to Store and Reheat

If you have leftovers or want to make street corn fritters ahead of time, you can store them properly to keep them fresh and tasty. Here are some tips:

• Place the cooked fritters in an airtight container or zip-top bag and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To reheat, place the fritters on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-12 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.

A Perfect Appetizer for Your Next Party

Whether you're hosting a tailgate, potluck, or dinner party, street corn fritters are a great choice for an appetizer that will impress your guests. They are easy to make in large batches, and the sauce options allow for customization to your guests' tastes and dietary needs. Plus, you can prep the fritters ahead of time and fry them up right before serving, so they're always hot and crispy. Be sure to provide plenty of napkins for your guests to clean up any sauce or crumbs!

The Origins of Street Corn

Elote, the inspiration for street corn fritters, is a popular street food in Mexico and other parts of Latin America. It typically consists of boiled or grilled corn on the cob, slathered with mayonnaise and rolled in crumbled cheese and chili powder. The tradition of eating corn on the cob dates back to ancient Native American cultures, who grew, harvested, and cooked corn as a staple food. Today, street vendors in Mexico and the United States continue to offer delicious and creative variations on this classic dish, like street corn fritters or elote in a cup.