These crispy zucchini corn fritters are a tasty treat that’s super easy to make! With fresh zucchini and sweet corn mixed together, they are both crunchy and satisfying.
I love how they make a perfect snack or side dish. Pair them with some dip, and you’ve got a winner! They disappear fast, so I always make an extra batch. 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Use medium-sized zucchinis for a good balance of moisture and flavor. If you have summer squash, that works too! For a different taste, try using grated carrots or even yellow squash.
Corn: Fresh corn is fantastic, but canned or frozen corn is just fine too. You could even substitute with other veggies like grated carrots or chopped bell peppers for added flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: I love adding Parmesan for its salty, nutty taste. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast gives a cheesy flavor. Alternatively, any firm cheese, like cheddar, can also be a good fit.
Flour: All-purpose flour works well, but you can use whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour if needed. Just be aware that the texture may change slightly.
Why Is Squeezing Out Zucchini Important?
A crucial step for crispy fritters is squeezing out the moisture from grated zucchini. If there’s too much water, the fritters can turn out soggy rather than crispy. Here’s how to do it:
- Place the grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel.
- Wrap the towel around the zucchini and twist it to squeeze out as much liquid as possible.
This little trick helps keep your fritters perfectly crunchy. Trust me, it’s worth the extra effort!
How Do I Get the Perfect Fry on My Fritters?
Frying can be tricky, but here’s how to achieve that golden perfection:
- Heat oil in the skillet over medium heat. You want it hot enough that a droplet of batter sizzles when added, but not smoking.
- Don’t crowd the pan! Fry in batches to ensure even cooking.
- Cook each fritter for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove them and drain on paper towels. This keeps them crispy!
These tips will help you make delicious fritters that everyone will love! Enjoy cooking and savoring your crispy zucchini corn fritters!
Crispy Zucchini Corn Fritters
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Fritters:
- 2 medium zucchinis, grated
- 1 cup fresh or canned corn kernels
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder (optional, for fluffier fritters)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes for preparation and another 15-20 minutes for cooking. So, in about 30-35 minutes, you’ll have delicious, crispy zucchini corn fritters ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Zucchini:
Start by grating the zucchinis using a box grater. This helps to create finer shreds for better texture. Then, place the grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much moisture as possible. This step is crucial to ensure your fritters stay crispy instead of soggy!
2. Make the Batter:
In a large bowl, combine the squeezed zucchini, corn kernels, eggs, flour, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, pepper, and baking powder if you’re using it. Mix everything together until well combined. The mixture should be thick enough to hold its shape but still moist.
3. Heat the Oil:
In a large skillet, heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil over medium heat. You’ll want it hot enough that it shimmers, but not smoking. You can test the temperature by dropping a small spoonful of the batter into the oil; it should sizzle right away.
4. Fry the Fritters:
Using a spoon or a small ice cream scoop, scoop tablespoon-sized amounts of the batter and carefully drop them into the hot oil, making sure not to crowd the pan. Flatten each scoop slightly with the back of the spoon to form fritters. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown and crispy.
5. Drain and Serve:
Once cooked, use a slotted spoon to remove the fritters from the pan and let them drain on a plate lined with paper towels. This will help absorb any excess oil. Serve the fritters warm, garnished with extra parsley if you like! They’re great with a side of sour cream or a yogurt-based herb dip.
Enjoy your delicious homemade crispy zucchini corn fritters! Happy cooking!
FAQ for Crispy Zucchini Corn Fritters
Can I Freeze Leftover Fritters?
Yes! You can freeze the leftover fritters. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes to make them crispy again!
What Can I Substitute for Parmesan Cheese?
If you’re looking for a substitute for Parmesan, try using grated nutrition yeast for a dairy-free option, or substitute with another cheese like cheddar or pecorino. Keep in mind that the flavor may change slightly, but it’ll still be delicious!
How Do I Keep Fritters Crispy After Cooking?
To keep the fritters crispy, avoid stacking them on top of each other right after frying. Place them on a wire rack instead of paper towels to allow air circulation. If you need to make them ahead, keep them in a warm oven (around 200°F or 93°C) until serving.
Can I Make These Fritters Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the batter and refrigerate it for up to 2 hours before frying. This allows the flavors to meld. Just remember to give it a quick stir before scooping and frying!
