Why You’ll Love this Buttermilk Fried Corn Recipe
You’ll be amazed at how delicious this buttermilk fried corn is! From the moment you take your first bite, the crispy outer layer gives way to tender, flavorful corn that’s soaked in rich buttermilk.
It’s the perfect side dish that elevates any meal, whether it’s a summer barbecue or a cozy family dinner. I love how easy it’s to make, too!
You’ll find it’s a fantastic way to showcase fresh corn, and the crunchy texture keeps you coming back for more. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to share this recipe with everyone you know!
Ingredients of Buttermilk Fried Corn
When it comes to making Buttermilk Fried Corn, having the right ingredients is key to achieving that mouthwatering flavor and that irresistible crunch. This dish isn’t just a treat for your taste buds; it also celebrates the sweetness of fresh corn in a delightful way.
So, before you get your frying pan ready, let’s gather everything you’ll need for this delicious recipe. Trust me; you’ll want to have all these goodies on hand.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 3 cups fresh corn kernels
- 2 1/4 cups buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 teaspoons pepper
- Corn oil (for frying)
Now, as you prepare to whip up this crispy delight, keep in mind that fresh corn is the star of the show. If you can, use corn that’s still warm from the sun. It makes a world of difference in flavor.
And don’t fret if you can’t find fresh corn; frozen corn is a decent substitute, though I’d recommend letting it thaw and patting it dry to avoid excess moisture.
Also, while you’re at it, take a moment to embrace the joy of buttermilk. It’s tangy and rich, giving the corn that extra oomph.
How to Make Buttermilk Fried Corn
Alright, folks, let’s jump into how to make this delightful Buttermilk Fried Corn. It’s a dish that promises to turn your kitchen into a cozy spot full of mouthwatering aromas.
So, first things first, you’ll need to take your 3 cups of fresh corn kernels and mix them with 2 1/4 cups of buttermilk in a bowl. Now, here’s the fun part: let that mixture hang out for about 30 minutes. This step is essential because it allows the corn to soak up all that tangy goodness from the buttermilk. Plus, it gives you a chance to sip on a beverage of your choice or maybe even do a little kitchen dance—no judgment here.
While the corn is marinating, let’s prepare the coating. Grab a large heavy-duty zip lock bag and toss in 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of cornmeal, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1 1/2 teaspoons of pepper. Shake it up like you mean it; this is where the magic begins.
Once your corn has soaked up that buttermilk, it’s time to add it to the bag. Now, don’t just dump it all in at once—this is a delicate operation. Add the corn a small amount at a time, and give that bag a good shake to coat each kernel evenly. We want every piece to be covered in that crunchy goodness.
Now for the frying! In a heavy skillet, pour corn oil to a depth of about 1 inch—trust me, you want enough oil for that crispy finish. Heat it up to 375°F. This is the part where you’ll want to keep an eye on things because nobody likes burnt corn.
Fry the corn in small batches, about two minutes or until they turn a beautiful golden brown. The sizzling sound is music to your ears, isn’t it? Once they’re done, drain them on paper towels to soak up any excess oil.
And just like that, you’ve made Buttermilk Fried Corn! Serve it hot and enjoy the crispy, sweet pieces that might just disappear faster than you can say “delicious.”
Buttermilk Fried Corn Substitutions & Variations
After enjoying the crispy delight of Buttermilk Fried Corn, you might be curious about how to mix things up a bit.
You can swap out fresh corn for frozen or canned corn if you’re in a pinch. For a twist, try adding spices like cayenne or smoked paprika to the flour mixture.
If you want a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour. You could even toss in some chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick.
Experimenting with different seasonings and add-ins can lead to delightful variations that keep this dish exciting!
What to Serve with Buttermilk Fried Corn
While Buttermilk Fried Corn stands out as a delicious dish on its own, pairing it with the right sides can elevate your meal even further.
I love serving it alongside crispy fried chicken for a comforting Southern feast. A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette adds brightness and balances the richness of the corn.
You can’t go wrong with buttery biscuits or cornbread, either—they soak up any leftover buttermilk goodness.
Finally, don’t forget a side of collard greens; their slight bitterness complements the corn’s sweetness perfectly.
Enjoying these combinations makes every bite even more enjoyable!
Additional Tips & Notes
To guarantee your Buttermilk Fried Corn turns out perfectly every time, I recommend a few key tips. First, use fresh corn for the best flavor and texture. If you can’t find fresh, frozen is a good alternative.
Letting the corn soak in buttermilk is essential for tenderizing and flavor enhancement. When coating, make sure the corn is evenly covered by shaking well in the bag.
Fry in small batches to maintain oil temperature and achieve that perfect golden crisp. Finally, don’t skip the paper towels; they absorb excess oil for a lighter bite.
Enjoy this delicious treat fresh for the best experience!