Before we dive into the deliciousness of fried corn on the cob, let’s talk about some fantastic pairings to elevate your meal. Picture a warm summer evening, with golden corn on the cob freshly fried sitting on the table—these side dishes will make your gathering even more enjoyable.
Grilled chicken is a fantastic complement, with its smoky flavor balancing the sweet, buttery corn beautifully. A drizzle of lemon or a dash of your favorite marinade will take both dishes to the next level.
Coleslaw, with its crunchy, tangy bite, brings balance to the richness of fried corn. Adding apples or raisins introduces a sweet twist that pairs perfectly with the savory elements.
For a more Southern-inspired experience, cornbread is a perfect match. The soft, sweet bread pairs beautifully with the crispy corn, creating a delightful contrast that’s irresistible.
And for a fresh note, a vibrant garden salad with fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing enhancement to the overall meal.
With these pairings in mind, let’s get to the heart of the matter: the fried corn on the cob recipe.
Corn is the quintessential summer vegetable. When it hits peak season, there’s a certain charm about biting into a warm ear of corn. But what if I told you we could kick that flavor up several notches? Enter fried corn on the cob.
This dish isn’t just ordinary; it’s a crispy, buttery treat that encapsulates the essence of summer. I still remember the first time I took a bite of fried corn. My aunt had just whipped up a batch for a family BBQ, and those sweet kernels bursting with flavor changed everything for me.
Fried corn on the cob is a delightful experience that offers a crispy exterior, juicy interior, and a flavor profile that dances on your palate. It’s easy to make, calls for simple ingredients, and brings a party to your plate.
What is Fried Corn on the Cob?
Fried corn on the cob is simply corn that’s been deep-fried or pan-fried until it’s golden brown and delicious. It offers an upbeat twist on traditional boiled or grilled corn, allowing the natural sweetness of the corn to shine through while incorporating delightful, crispy textures.
This simple dish can be seasoned in various ways, from buttery goodness to spicy kick, making it not only versatile, but a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Why This Recipe Works
Let me tell you why this fried corn on the cob recipe is not just another side dish:
1. Perfect Texture
When you fry corn on the cob, the outer layer becomes crispy, while the inner kernels remain tender. This contrast makes every bite satisfying. You get crunch, sweetness, and juiciness all in one bite.
2. Customizable Flavors
Who doesn’t love customization? You can play around with seasonings to match your meal. Whether it’s garlic and herbs, chili powder for a spice kick, or even a sprinkle of cheese, the options are endless.
3. Quick and Simple
In a world where time is precious, this recipe shines. With just a few ingredients and a minimal time commitment, you can prepare a delightful dish that will impress your guests without keeping you in the kitchen all day.
4. Shareable Delight
Fried corn on the cob is visually appealing and makes for great sharing at parties. While grilling or boiling corn can feel a bit formal, fried corn is informal, fun, and fantastic to munch on while chatting around the grill.
Ingredients You’ll Need To Make Fried Corn on the Cob
To create this scrumptious dish, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon of honey
- 1 tablespoon of grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 ears of corn, husked and cleaned
- 1 cup of unsalted butter, softened
- 1 tablespoon of finely chopped garlic
- ½ teaspoon of fine sea salt
- ½ teaspoon of freshly cracked black pepper
- 1 ½ teaspoons of ground chili powder
- ½ teaspoon of onion flakes
- ½ teaspoon of garlic granules
- ½ teaspoon of smoky paprika
- ¼ teaspoon of dried Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon of fresh parsley, chopped
- Vegetable oil for frying
How To Make These?
Let’s get started! Follow these simple steps to create your fried corn on the cob.
Step 1: Prepare Your Corn
Begin by husking the corn and removing all the silky threads. Rinse each ear under cold water to ensure they are clean. Dry them with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
Step 2: Make the Butter Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter with the chopped garlic, sea salt, black pepper, chili powder, onion flakes, garlic granules, smoky paprika, Italian seasoning, parsley, lemon juice, honey, and Parmesan cheese.
Use a fork to mix these until it’s well combined. This savory mixture will soak into the corn, elevating each bite.
Step 3: Coat the Corn
Once your butter mixture is ready, take each corn ear and generously slather the mixture over the surface. Ensure that every bit is covered, as this is where the flavor comes from. Allow it to sit for a few minutes so that the flavors can meld.
Step 4: Heat the Oil
In a deep skillet or pot, pour in enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom by about an inch. Heat the oil over medium heat until it reaches about 350°F (175°C). A simple test: drop a little of the butter mixture into the oil. If it sizzles, you’re ready to go!
Step 5: Fry the Corn
Carefully place the butter-coated corn in the hot oil, turning them occasionally. Fry them until they turn golden brown—about 7-10 minutes. Use tongs to handle the corn to avoid burns!
Step 6: Drain and Serve
Once the corn is perfectly golden, remove it from the oil and let it drain on a plate lined with paper towels to soak up the excess oil. Serve it hot, optionally garnished with extra parsley or a sprinkle of cheese.
Tips for the Best Fried Corn on the Cob
- Choose Fresh Corn: Sweet, in-season corn will elevate the taste. Check for plump kernels and bright green husks.
- Adjust the Spice: If you like more heat, consider adding jalapeño or red pepper flakes to the butter mixture.
- Mind the Oil Temperature: Make sure the oil is at the right temperature to avoid soggy corn. Too low prevents it from frying properly.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Frying too many corn cobs at once can lower the oil’s temperature, resulting in uneven cooking.
- Try Different Tubers: For a fun twist, test frying some vegetable or potato slices with the corn for a full finger foods platter.
How to Store the Leftovers?
Leftover fried corn can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, try using an oven or air fryer to regain that crispiness rather than a microwave, which may make it soggy.
Recommended Side Dishes for Fried Corn on the Cob
With fried corn on the cob as the star of the show, consider these delightful sides:
1. Grilled Shrimp Skewers
These skewers add a smoky flavor that pairs wonderfully with corn. Simply season shrimp with garlic and lime, pop them on skewers, and grill.
2. Barbecue Ribs
Rich and savory, barbecue ribs are an outcome delight. The sweet tang of the BBQ sauce against the corn’s sweetness creates a wonderful combination.
3. Creamy Potato Salad
The creaminess of potato salad provides a contrasting texture to the crunchy corn. Use tangy mustard and fresh dill to brighten it up.
4. Classic Deviled Eggs
Deviled eggs bring a retro vibe to any gathering. With their creamy filling and touch of spice, they balance the sweetness of the corn and offer a familiar comfort.
If the Items Are Not Available in Your Pantry, What Are Some Substitute Options for the Ingredients?
1. Unsalted Butter
If you’re out of unsalted butter, consider using coconut oil or olive oil. Both are great for frying and will impart their unique flavors!
2. Garlic
In the absence of fresh garlic, garlic powder works in a pinch; use about half the amount.
3. Chili Powder
If you don’t have chili powder, try paprika or a dash of cayenne pepper for heat.
4. Fresh Parsley
If parsley isn’t handy, you can substitute with fresh cilantro, which gives a different yet vibrant flavor profile.
Fried Corn On The Cob Recipe
Equipment
- kitchen towel or paper towels
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon of honey
- 1 tablespoon of grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 ears of corn husked and cleaned
- 1 cup of unsalted butter softened
- 1 tablespoon of finely chopped garlic
- ½ teaspoon of fine sea salt
- ½ teaspoon of freshly cracked black pepper
- 1 ½ teaspoons of ground chili powder
- ½ teaspoon of onion flakes
- ½ teaspoon of garlic granules
- ½ teaspoon of smoky paprika
- ¼ teaspoon of dried Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon of fresh parsley chop
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- Begin by husking the corn and removing all the silky threads. Rinse each ear under cold water to ensure they are clean. Dry them with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter with the chopped garlic, sea salt, black pepper, chili powder, onion flakes, garlic granules, smoky paprika, Italian seasoning, parsley, lemon juice, honey, and Parmesan cheese.
- Use a fork to mix these until it’s well combined. This savory mixture will soak into the corn, elevating each bite.
- Once your butter mixture is ready, take each corn ear and generously slather the mixture over the surface. Ensure that every bit is covered, as this is where the flavor comes from. Allow it to sit for a few minutes so that the flavors can meld.
- In a deep skillet or pot, pour in enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom by about an inch. Heat the oil over medium heat until it reaches about 350°F (175°C). A simple test: drop a little of the butter mixture into the oil. If it sizzles, you’re ready to go!
- Carefully place the butter-coated corn in the hot oil, turning them occasionally. Fry them until they turn golden brown—about 7-10 minutes. Use tongs to handle the corn to avoid burns!
- Once the corn is perfectly golden, remove it from the oil and let it drain on a plate lined with paper towels to soak up the excess oil. Serve it hot, optionally garnished with extra parsley or a sprinkle of cheese.
Notes
- Choose Fresh Corn: Sweet, in-season corn will elevate the taste. Check for plump kernels and bright green husks.
- Adjust the Spice: If you like more heat, consider adding jalapeño or red pepper flakes to the butter mixture.
- Mind the Oil Temperature: Make sure the oil is at the right temperature to avoid soggy corn. Too low prevents it from frying properly.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Frying too many corn cobs at once can lower the oil’s temperature, resulting in uneven cooking.
- Try Different Tubers: For a fun twist, test frying some vegetable or potato slices with the corn for a full finger foods platter.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
Fried corn on the cob is not just a dish; it’s an experience. Whether you are hosting a barbecue, enjoying a picnic, or simply treating yourself on a warm afternoon, this fried delight will capture your taste buds.
Its crunchy exterior, combined with a buttery, flavorful interior, elevates the humble corn experience.
Cooking should be fun, uncomplicated, and most importantly, enjoyable. So, gather your ingredients, and let’s celebrate summer with a dish that’s sure to become a favorite at your table.
Enjoy every bite, and don’t forget to share!
