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Southern Grill Snack: Smoky Sweet Corn Fritters with Spicy Honey Butter

Find this Southern-inspired snack recipe that brings the flavors of the South to your kitchen with smoky sweet corn fritters and spicy honey butter.

Time: Prep 20 mins / Cook 15 mins / Total 35 mins
Servings: 6
Difficulty: Intermediate
Cuisine: American, Southern

Allergens

Dairy, Eggs

Ingredients

  • 2 cups fresh or frozen sweet corn kernels
  • 1/2 cup all
  • purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup yellow cornmeal
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • 1/4 cup buttermilk
  • Canola oil for frying Spicy Honey Butter:
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt to taste

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cornmeal, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
  2. In a separate bowl, combine the beaten egg and buttermilk.
  3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Fold in the corn kernels.
  4. Heat about 1 inch of canola oil in a heavy frying pan over medium high heat until it reaches 350°F.
  5. Use a small ice cream scoop or spoon to drop rounded spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil, flattening them slightly with the back of a spoon. Fry in batches, being careful not to crowd the pan. Cook for 2 3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
  6. Use a slotted spoon to remove the fritters from the oil and drain on paper towels.
  7. To prepare the spicy honey butter, combine all ingredients in a small bowl and mix well. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
  8. Serve the fritters warm with a dollop of spicy honey butter on top.

Chef’s Insight

The key to perfect fritters is a well-heated oil and not overcrowding the pan. This allows them to crisp up beautifully without becoming greasy.

Notes

For a more intense smoky flavor, try adding a pinch of smoked salt to the batter.

Cultural or Historical Background

The Southern Grill Snack pays homage to the classic street food found at outdoor markets and fairs in the American South, where fresh corn is celebrated during the summer months.