Corned Beef Fritters are crispy little bites filled with savory corned beef and spices. They’re perfect as a snack or a fun appetizer at any gathering!
These fritters are so tasty that I sometimes forget to share them! 🤭 They’re easy to whip up and are always a hit. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauce, and you’re good to go!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Corned Beef: The star of this dish! You can use canned corned beef, but if you want a homemade touch, leftover brisket works nicely too. This might give your fritters a fresher taste.
Corn Kernels: Fresh corn is delightful when in season. Canned corn is a great shortcut, and frozen corn works well too. Just thaw if using frozen!
Flour & Cornmeal: These help with the fritters’ texture. If you need gluten-free options, try almond flour or a gluten-free all-purpose blend. Cornmeal adds a lovely crunch; consider using polenta for a twist!
Green Onions: They add nice flavor and color. If you don’t have them, chopped onion or shallots can substitute easily. Chives are also a great alternative.
Herbs: Fresh parsley gives a refreshing taste, but cilantro can give a nice kick. If you’re not a fan of either, try Italian seasoning for a herby vibe.
How Can I Perfectly Fry the Fritters?
Frying can be tricky, but with a few tips, you’ll have golden, crispy fritters. The key is temperature and oil depth.
- Heat the oil over medium heat until it shimmers. Too hot, and the fritters will burn; too cool, and they’ll become greasy.
- Drop batter into the oil carefully. Ensure there’s enough space between each fritter for even cooking.
- Fry for 3-4 minutes until golden brown. Flip carefully using a spatula for even cooking.
- Let the cooked fritters drain on paper towels to remove excess oil; this keeps them crispy.
How to Make Corned Beef Fritters
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 can (12 oz) corned beef, finely chopped or shredded
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornmeal
- 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions (scallions)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley or cilantro (optional)
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion or shallot
- 2 large eggs
- 1/3 cup milk
- 1-2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust as needed)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp paprika or smoked paprika
- Vegetable oil for frying
Dipping Sauces:
- Spicy mayo: 1/2 cup mayonnaise mixed with 1-2 tsp sriracha or hot sauce
- Sweet chili sauce with finely chopped chili and green onion
How Much Time Will You Need?
The total time for prepping and cooking the corned beef fritters is approximately 30-40 minutes. You’ll need about 15 minutes for prep work and 15-25 minutes for frying. It’s quick, easy, and sure to satisfy your cravings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Fritter Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the finely chopped corned beef, corn kernels, flour, cornmeal, green onions, parsley (if using), and chopped onion. Give it a good stir to mix everything evenly!
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, minced garlic, baking powder, salt, pepper, and paprika until smooth. This combination will add moisture and flavor to your fritters.
3. Combine the Mixtures:
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and mix just until combined. The batter should be nice and thick to hold its shape. If it feels too wet, add a little more flour; if it seems too dry, stir in a splash more milk.
4. Heat the Oil:
In a large skillet, heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil over medium heat. Wait until the oil is shimmering but not smoking. This is the perfect temperature for frying!
5. Fry the Fritters:
Using a spoon or a small ice cream scoop, drop spoonfuls of fritter mixture into the hot oil. Flatten them slightly with the back of the spoon to form patties. Give them a little space in the pan to cook evenly.
6. Cooking Time:
Fry the fritters for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning!
7. Drain Excess Oil:
Once cooked, transfer the fritters to a plate lined with paper towels. This will help drain any excess oil, keeping them crispy!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the corned beef fritters immediately on a bed of fresh greens like arugula. Don’t forget the delicious dipping sauces: spicy mayo and sweet chili! They’re perfect for enhancing the flavor!
9. Add a Final Touch:
If you like, garnish your fritters with extra chopped green onions or herbs. Enjoy your warm, crispy fritters!
Can I Use Fresh Corn Instead of Canned or Frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh corn gives a wonderful flavor and texture. Just be sure to cut the kernels off the cob before adding them to the batter. If using fresh corn, you might want to use about 1 to 1.5 cups to ensure a good corn flavor.
Can I Substitute the Cornmeal?
Yes! If you don’t have cornmeal, you can use additional all-purpose flour, but this will slightly change the texture. For a unique twist, try using polenta for a similar corn flavor and crunch!
How Do I Store Leftover Fritters?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them up in a skillet or toaster oven to regain some of their crispy texture. Avoid microwaving them, as they can become soggy.
Can I Make the Batter Ahead of Time?
While you can prepare the fritter batter in advance, it’s best to cook the fritters right after mixing for optimal texture. If you must make it ahead, store the batter in the fridge and use it within 24 hours for the best results.
