Air-Fried Sweet Corn Fritters
These vegan and gluten-free Air Fryer Corn Fritters combine coarsely ground fresh corn with chickpea and rice flours, seasoned with aromatic herbs and spices. Air-fried to crispy perfection in just 15 minutes, they deliver a wholesome, protein-packed snack or appetizer that’s quick and easy to prepare.
Equipment
- 1 Air Fryer
- 1 large mixing bowl
- 1 Corn Cobber (or equivalent tool)
- 1 Oil Spray Bottle
- 1 Pair Oven Mitts
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh corn kernels coarsely ground
- ¼ cup water for grinding corn
- 1 cup chickpea flour also called gram flour or besan
- ¼ cup rice flour
- 1 small onion finely diced
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1 teaspoon onion-garlic seasoning or all-purpose savory seasoning
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper adjust to taste
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Salt to taste
- Cooking oil spray for greasing
- ¼ cup fresh herbs such as chives, cilantro, or parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Corn Base: Begin by placing the fresh corn kernels into a small food processor or blender. Add the ¼ cup of water and pulse briefly until the corn is coarsely ground, leaving some texture for a nice bite. Avoid over-processing into a puree.
- Combine Dry and Fresh Ingredients: Transfer the ground corn into a large mixing bowl. Add the chickpea flour, rice flour, finely diced onion, minced garlic, onion-garlic seasoning, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt. Stir everything together until you have a thick, cohesive batter. The mixture should hold together but not be too wet.
- Shape the Fritters: Divide the batter into six equal portions. Using your hands, shape each portion into a round ball, then gently flatten it into a small pancake about ¾ inch thick. Set them aside on a plate.
- Preheat and Prepare the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to preheat at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking oil to prevent sticking.
- Air Fry the Fritters: Place the prepared fritters in a single layer inside the air fryer basket, ensuring they don’t overlap. Cook at 350°F for 12 minutes. At the 6-minute mark, carefully open the air fryer, flip each fritter over, spray a little oil on top, and continue cooking until crisp and golden.
- Serve Immediately: Once cooked, remove the fritters from the air fryer. Garnish with fresh herbs of your choice. Serve warm with your favorite dips such as avocado cilantro sauce, spicy mayo, or classic ketchup.
Notes
- Alternative Cooking Methods: If you don’t have an air fryer, these fritters can be pan-fried in a skillet over medium heat using olive oil. Cook each side for 3-5 minutes until golden and crispy. You can also bake them in a 375°F oven on a greased baking sheet for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through for even browning.
- Storage Tips: Store leftover fritters in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. To reheat, warm them in a skillet over medium heat or in a preheated 375°F oven until heated through to maintain their crispness.
- Serving Suggestions: These fritters pair wonderfully with creamy dips or spicy sauces and make a great snack or appetizer alongside a cup of tea or light salad.
- Customization: Feel free to add finely chopped bell peppers, corn kernels, or spices like smoked paprika for a twist. Adjust the cayenne pepper to suit your heat preference.
