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Crispy Fried Corn with Garlic & Spices

Crispy Fried Corn with Garlic & Spices

Crispy Fried Corn with Garlic & Spices is a flavorful and crunchy snack or side dish made by frying sweet corn kernels and tossing them with aromatic garlic and a blend of warm spices. This easy recipe uses simple pantry staples and delivers bold flavors with a perfect addictive crunch, making it ideal for parties, quick bites, or alongside your favorite meals.

Ingredients

Scale

Core Ingredients

  • 1 to 1.5 cups sweet corn kernels (fresh or thawed if frozen)
  • 3 garlic cloves, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup cooking oil (vegetable, canola, or peanut oil recommended)
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon chili powder or cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Corn: Rinse fresh corn kernels under cold water or fully thaw frozen corn. Drain thoroughly to remove excess moisture, which is crucial for achieving maximum crispiness during frying.
  2. Heat the Oil: Pour about 1/2 inch of cooking oil into a deep skillet or frying pan and heat over medium-high heat until shimmering but not smoking.
  3. Fry the Corn: Add corn kernels in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry each batch for 4-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the kernels turn golden and crisp.
  4. Sauté Garlic and Add Spices: In a separate small pan, heat a tablespoon of oil and sauté the finely chopped garlic until it becomes fragrant and golden. Add the cumin, paprika, chili powder or cayenne, and cook for another minute to release their aromas.
  5. Combine and Season: Drain the fried corn on paper towels to remove excess oil. Immediately toss the hot corn kernels with the garlic-spice mixture, sprinkle with salt, and add lemon juice if using. Mix thoroughly to evenly coat every kernel.
  6. Serve Warm: Enjoy the crispy, flavorful fried corn right away for the best texture and taste.

Notes

  • Ensure corn kernels are as dry as possible before frying to maximize crunch.
  • Maintain medium-high heat during frying to prevent oil absorption and sogginess.
  • Fry corn in small batches to keep the oil temperature stable.
  • Use freshly chopped garlic for optimal flavor.
  • Toss the corn with spices and seasoning while hot to enhance absorption.

Nutrition

Keywords: crispy fried corn, garlic corn, spicy corn snack, crunchy corn appetizer, fried corn with spices