These corned beef fritters are the perfect crunchy snack! Made with tender corned beef, mixed with a few simple ingredients, they are deliciously crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
Making these fritters is so easy, you’ll want them for every meal. Trust me, once you start frying, the smell will make your family gather in the kitchen—it’s that good!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Canned Corned Beef: This is the star of the fritters. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try using shredded cooked chicken or turkey, or even a plant-based meat substitute.
Canned Corn Kernels: Fresh corn off the cob works great if it’s in season. Frozen corn is another good alternative and offers a similar sweet flavor.
All-Purpose Flour & Cornmeal: The combo gives a nice texture. For a gluten-free version, opt for almond flour or a gluten-free blend. Cornmeal can also be replaced with polenta for a different flavor.
Green Onions: They add a fresh taste. You can substitute with chives or scallions if that’s what you have on hand. Regular onions are also fine, just use a smaller amount.
Smoked Paprika: This ingredient gives a lovely smoky flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika works but it won’t add that smokiness. You can also use cayenne for some extra heat!
How Do I Get the Fritters Crispy and Delicious?
Frying the fritters perfectly can be tricky! Here are some simple tips to ensure they’re crispy:
- Use enough oil: Heat about 1/4 inch in the skillet to cover the fritters halfway. This helps achieve that nice golden crust.
- Don’t crowd the pan: Fry in batches so the oil stays hot, ensuring even cooking and crispiness.
- Monitor the heat: If the oil starts to smoke, turn down the heat. Conversely, if they aren’t browning, up the heat a little.
- Drain properly: After frying, drain fritters on paper towels to remove excess oil, keeping them crispy.
How to Make Delicious Corned Beef Fritters
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Fritters:
- 1 cup canned corned beef, flaked
- 1 cup canned corn kernels, drained
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornmeal
- 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Fresh arugula or mixed greens for serving
- Lemon wedges for garnish
For the Dipping Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp chopped herbs (parsley or chives)
- Pinch of black pepper
How Much Time Will You Need?
This corned beef fritters recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and another 15-20 minutes to cook. So, you’ll be enjoying your tasty fritters in about 30-35 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Fritter Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the flaked corned beef, drained corn kernels, chopped red onion, and the green onions. Make sure these ingredients are mixed well so every bite has a little bit of everything!
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornmeal, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. This is what will give your fritters that perfect texture and flavor.
3. Combine Mixtures:
Add your dry ingredient mixture to the corned beef mixture. Stir everything together until it’s evenly combined. This will form the base of your fritters.
4. Add the Wet Ingredients:
In a small bowl, beat the egg with the milk. Pour this into the fritter mixture and stir well until the batter is thick and holds together. If the mixture feels too wet, don’t hesitate to add a tablespoon more of flour or cornmeal to help it firm up.
5. Heat the Oil:
In a large skillet, heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil over medium heat. You’ll want it hot enough for frying, but not so hot that it smokes. You can test the temperature by dropping in a little batter—if it sizzles, you’re ready!
6. Form the Fritters:
Using a spoon or small scoop, carefully form the fritter mixture into small patties, about 2-3 inches in diameter. This will help them cook evenly.
7. Fry the Fritters:
Place the patties gently into the hot oil, frying for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they turn a golden brown and are crispy. Keep a close eye to avoid burning!
8. Drain and Serve:
Once cooked, remove the fritters using a slotted spoon and let them drain on paper towels. This will get rid of any excess oil.
9. Make the Dipping Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix the mayonnaise, hot sauce, lemon juice, chopped herbs, and a pinch of black pepper. This zesty sauce will perfectly complement your fritters!
10. Plate Your Dish:
Serve the corned beef fritters hot on a bed of fresh arugula, garnished with extra green onions and lemon wedges on the side. This adds a pop of color and freshness!
11. Enjoy!
Dip your hot fritters into the spicy sauce for a burst of flavor with every bite. Enjoy the crunch and deliciousness of your corned beef fritters!
Can I Use Fresh Corn Instead of Canned?
Absolutely! Fresh corn can elevate the flavor. If using fresh, you’ll need about 1 cup of kernels, so just cut it off the cob and sauté for a few minutes to soften it slightly before adding to the mixture.
How Do I Store Leftover Fritters?
Store any leftover fritters in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep them crispy when reheating, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.
Can I Freeze Corned Beef Fritters?
Yes, you can freeze them! Arrange the fritters in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They should last for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.
What Can I Serve with Corned Beef Fritters?
These fritters pair well with a light salad or fresh greens, and you can add some sliced avocado or a side of pickles to enhance the meal. They also make a great appetizer for parties!