There’s something about the combination of cheese and jalapeños that just sings to my taste buds—like a spicy dance party in my mouth. These cheesy jalapeño corn fritters are my go-to for a quick snack when I’m craving that perfect blend of savory, spicy, and a hint of sweetness from the corn. They remind me of those last-minute get-togethers where you need something delicious, fast; they’re the life of the party, even if it’s just me and my couch.
Steps
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, cheddar cheese, garlic, salt, and pepper. Add milk and egg, stirring until just blended. Fold in corn, jalapeños, and chives until evenly distributed.
- Heat 1-2 inches of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Drop spoonfuls of batter into the hot oil, cooking for 4-5 minutes until each fritter is golden and crisp. Remove fritters and let them drain on a wire rack lined with paper towels.
- For the aioli, blend all ingredients in a bowl until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Add salt to taste. Serve the freshly cooked fritters with the aioli for dipping. Enjoy your meal!
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 1/2 cups fresh corn kernels (or canned, drained)
- 1-2 jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons chopped chives
- Oil for frying (1-2 inches in the skillet)
- 1/2 cup avocado oil mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon chipotle chili powder
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt, to taste
FAQ
- What are Jalapeño Cheddar Corn Fritters?
- Jalapeño Cheddar Corn Fritters are crispy, slightly spicy appetizers made from a batter that includes corn, jalapeños, garlic, chives, and cheddar cheese. They are fried to a golden crisp and served with a creamy chipotle aioli for dipping.
- How do you make the chipotle aioli for the fritters?
- The chipotle aioli is made by mixing avocado oil mayo, fresh lemon juice, chipotle chili powder, and a touch of honey. This combination gives it a smoky, spicy, and slightly sweet flavor that complements the fritters.
- Can these fritters be baked instead of fried?
- While the traditional method for making these fritters involves frying to achieve a crispy exterior, you could experiment with baking them. However, they may not have the same level of crispiness as the fried version.
- What can I serve with these corn fritters?
- These fritters are perfect as a summer appetizer, and they pair well with the chipotle aioli. You might also consider serving them with a fresh salad or alongside grilled meats for a more substantial meal.
- Can I make these fritters in advance?
- It’s best to serve the fritters fresh and hot for optimal crispiness. However, you can prepare the batter in advance and keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to fry them. Reheat any leftover fritters in an oven to regain some crispness.
Tips
- Use Fresh, Sweet Corn: For the best flavor, wait until corn is in season and perfectly sweet. This enhances the overall taste of your fritters.
- Balance Heat with Aioli: The chipotle aioli is essential for balancing the heat from the jalapeños in the fritters. A touch of honey in the aioli adds a subtle sweetness that complements the spice.
- Fry at the Right Temperature: Ensure your oil is heated to medium-high before frying. This helps achieve a crispy outside while keeping the inside light and airy.
- Serve Immediately: For the best texture and taste, serve the fritters immediately after cooking, paired with the creamy aioli for dipping.
Equipment
- Large Skillet – If you don’t have a suitable skillet for frying, you might consider purchasing one.
- Wire Rack – Useful for draining the fritters after frying.
- Mixing Bowls – While many people have basic mixing bowls, a set with various sizes might be useful for recipes like this.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons – Essential for accurately measuring ingredients.
- Oil Thermometer – Helpful for ensuring the oil is at the correct temperature for frying.
