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Crispy Corn Nuggets Recipe

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3.9 from 7 reviews

These crispy corn nuggets make a perfect appetizer or side dish, featuring a savory and slightly sweet batter with tender sweet corn kernels. Ready in just 13 minutes, they are easy to prepare and deliciously fried to golden perfection.

  • Total Time: 13 minutes
  • Yield: About 15-20 corn nuggets

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients

  • 1 cup (125 g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne (optional)
  • ½ teaspoon granulated sugar

Wet Ingredients

  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • ½ cup (122.5 g) whole milk
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted

Main Ingredient

  • 1 can (15.25 ounces) sweet corn, drained (about 1 ½ cups kernels)

For Frying and Garnish

  • Vegetable oil, for frying
  • Parsley, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine all-purpose flour, baking powder, garlic powder, kosher salt, optional cayenne, and granulated sugar. Stir the mixture well to ensure even distribution of the spices and leavening agent.
  2. Combine wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the large egg, whole milk, and melted unsalted butter until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
  3. Mix batter: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients bowl. Stir gently until just combined—being careful not to overmix to keep the nuggets tender and light.
  4. Add corn: Gently fold the drained sweet corn kernels into the batter, ensuring they are evenly distributed without breaking them up.
  5. Heat oil: In a heavy pot over medium heat, pour enough vegetable oil to allow the nuggets to fry. Heat the oil until it reaches 350°F (175°C), ensuring it's hot enough for frying but not smoking.
  6. Fry nuggets: Working in batches, drop 4-5 spoonfuls of batter into the hot oil. Fry until the nuggets are golden brown and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per batch.
  7. Drain excess oil: Use a slotted spoon to carefully remove the fried corn nuggets from the oil. Place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil and keep them crisp.
  8. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle the nuggets with fresh parsley for a touch of color and freshness. Serve immediately while warm and crispy.

Notes

  • For extra spice, adjust cayenne pepper quantity or add chili flakes to the batter.
  • If you prefer a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
  • Use fresh corn kernels as an alternative to canned corn, but reduce added milk slightly as fresh corn has more moisture.
  • Ensure the oil temperature is maintained at 350°F for crispy and evenly cooked nuggets.
  • Drain fried nuggets properly on paper towels to avoid sogginess.
  • Author: Chef
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 3 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: American