Corn Nuggets
One of our favorite things about a get-together, apart from the great company, is sampling all the delicious dishes everyone brings to the party! While we love a good casserole—anything creamy and cheesy always gets our vote—finger food is really the way to go when there’s a crowd of people looking to mingle and catch up. That’s why we’re always experimenting with new recipes and tweaking them until they’re just right… which is exactly what happened with these Texas corn nuggets!
We love all kinds of fried foods, but these corn nuggets were a delightful discovery. They feature whole corn kernels and creamed corn, frozen into balls, then dipped in a tasty, seasoned batter and fried to crispy perfection. These nuggets are incredibly delicious—add some cheese if you have it on hand—and have received rave reviews from everyone who tries them. If croquettes are your thing, you’ll definitely love these, so grab some corn and start frying!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These corn nuggets are not just a treat for the taste buds; they’re a hit at any gathering. They combine the sweetness of corn with a crispy, savory batter, making them irresistible. Plus, they’re easy to prepare and serve as a perfect finger food for parties or family dinners.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Large bowl
- Medium bowl
- Whisk
- Large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot
- Paper towels
Ingredients
- 1 (11 oz.) can whole corn kernel, rinsed and drained
- 2 (11 oz.) cans creamed corn
- 1/2 cup cornmeal
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste
- 1 egg
- 3 tablespoons milk
- Vegetable oil, as needed
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together corn kernels and creamed corn. Season with salt and pepper, then drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the lined baking sheet.
- Place the baking sheet in the freezer to chill until the corn mixture is set.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together cornmeal and flour, then add onion and garlic powders. Season generously with salt and pepper, then mix in the egg and milk, stirring until the batter is smooth.
- Heat 1 1/2 inches of vegetable oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. (The oil is ready when water sprinkled in it sizzles.)
- Remove the corn mixture from the freezer, then dip each frozen corn ball in the batter.
- Carefully lower the battered corn balls into the hot oil and fry for 1-2 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
- Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate and season lightly with salt. Enjoy!
Tips for Success
- Make sure the corn mixture is well chilled before frying to ensure it holds together.
- Test the oil temperature with a small drop of batter to ensure it’s hot enough for frying.
Additional Tips and Variations
- Add some shredded cheese to the batter for an extra cheesy flavor.
- Experiment with spices like paprika or cayenne pepper for a bit of heat.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
These nuggets are a delightful indulgence, rich in flavor and perfect for sharing. Nutritional details will vary based on portion size and cooking method.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make these corn nuggets ahead of time?
You can prepare the corn mixture and freeze it in advance, then batter and fry the nuggets when ready to serve.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover nuggets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven to maintain crispiness.
Can I use fresh corn instead of canned?
Yes, fresh corn can be substituted for canned corn. Just ensure it is cooked and drained before using.
Conclusion
These corn nuggets are sure to be a hit at your next gathering, offering a perfect blend of sweetness and savory crunch. We hope you enjoy making and sharing these delightful bites as much as we do. Give them a try and let us know how they turn out! Feel free to share your experience and any creative twists you’ve added in the comments below. Happy cooking!
