Crispy Corn Nuggets

If you’re a fan of fried foods, you’re going to love these Crispy Corn Nuggets! Combining the sweetness of corn with a crispy, seasoned batter, these nuggets are a delightful treat for any occasion. Made with both whole corn kernels and creamed corn, they offer a unique texture that’s both satisfying and delicious. Perfect as a side dish, appetizer, or even a snack, these nuggets have received rave reviews from everyone who’s tried them. They’re incredibly easy to make and can even be customized with cheese for an extra touch of indulgence.

Ingredients

• 1 (11 oz.) can whole corn kernels, 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, for frying

Preparation

1. Prep the Corn Mixture:
   • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
   • In a large bowl, combine the whole corn kernels and creamed corn. Season with salt and pepper.
   • Drop spoonfuls of the corn mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, forming small mounds.
   • Place the baking sheet in the freezer to chill until the corn balls are firm, about 1-2 hours.
2. Make the Batter:
   • In a medium bowl, whisk together the cornmeal and flour.
   • Add the onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
   • Stir in the egg and milk, and continue to mix until the batter is smooth and well combined.
3. Heat the Oil:
   • In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, heat 1 1/2 inches of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. The oil is ready when a drop of water sizzles upon contact.
4. Fry the Nuggets:
   • Remove the corn mixture from the freezer. Dip each frozen corn ball into the batter, ensuring it is fully coated.
   • Carefully lower the coated corn balls into the hot oil. Fry for 1-2 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
   • Use a slotted spoon to remove the nuggets and transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Season lightly with salt.
5. Serve:
   • Enjoy these crispy corn nuggets hot and fresh! They pair wonderfully with your favorite dipping sauces or as a side to any meal.

Bonus Tip

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding some shredded cheddar cheese to the corn mixture before freezing. The cheese will melt into the nuggets, adding a deliciously gooey center that enhances their overall taste.

Conclusion

These Crispy Corn Nuggets are a fantastic addition to any snack menu or party platter. They’re crispy on the outside, tender and flavorful on the inside, and incredibly easy to prepare. With their sweet corn flavor and crunchy coating, they’re sure to be a hit with family and friends alike. So, gather your ingredients, heat up that oil, and get ready to enjoy these irresistible nuggets!