Vegan corn fritters are the perfect appetizer to please kids and adults alike. Pick up some canned corn next time you’re at the store and give them a try!

Let’s talk appetizers. Everybody loves finger foods, but for hosts, they can be a nightmare. What can you make that everyone will enjoy? Does it fit the rest of the menu? Will it be too filling? Not to mention trying to please a wide variety of ages. If you are hosting a dinner that both adults and kids will be attending, it can seem impossible to pick an appetizer that will satisfy everyone. Kids tend to want fried foods like mozzarella sticks, while adults prefer sophisticated bites like stuffed mushrooms. What can you make that balances these two opposite tastes? The answer is corn fritters.

Last fall, I catered a Halloween party at a small local cinema. They already had someone handling the main courses but asked me to provide desserts and an appetizer. Picking desserts was easy; everyone loved cupcakes and brownies. But deciding what type of appetizer to make was a bit more tricky considering the diverse crowd that would be attending this party. Ultimately, I ended up going for corn fritters. They’re the perfect balance between kid-friendly and sophisticated. On top of that, they’re super quick and easy to make, which was a must since I needed to make enough to feed 150 people.

Whether you’re looking for the perfect appetizer to serve at a dinner party, or just for an after-school snack to feed your kids, these corn fritters are the way to go!

Vegan Corn Fritters Ingredients

• 1 tbsp ground flax
• 3 tbsp water
• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornmeal
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 3/4 cup oat milk or otherwise non-dairy milk
• 1 tbsp vegan butter melted
• 2 15 oz cans whole corn kernels drained
• 2 tbsp white onion finely chopped
• Coconut oil or vegan butter for frying

Optional

• Vegan sour cream or yogurt for serving

How to Make Vegan Corn Fritters

1. In a small bowl, stir together the ground flax and water. Set aside to thicken.
2. Add the flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt to a mixing bowl and whisk to combine.
3. Pour in the prepared flax mixture, oat milk, and vegan butter. Whisk until no lumps remain.
4. Mix in the corn kernels and chopped onion.
5. Add 1-2 tbsp of coconut oil or vegan butter to a large frying pan and place over medium heat.
6. Drop 1/4 rounds of batter onto the pan, leaving the patties thick rather than swirling the batter around. Cool until the edges are dry, then flip and cook until both sides are golden brown. Use a spatula to press down on the patties to help the centers cook. Repeat with the remaining batter, adding more oil or butter as needed.
7. Serve hot or cold with vegan sour cream or yogurt.

Need more ideas for kid-friendly vegetable recipes? Check out these tempura green beans!

Additional Tips

• Customize the Texture: For a chunkier texture, leave some corn kernels whole when mixing the batter. If you prefer a smoother consistency, use a blender or food processor to partially blend the batter before adding the corn.
• Enhance Flavor with Herbs: Elevate the flavor profile by adding fresh herbs such as chopped cilantro or chives to the batter. The herbs will complement the sweetness of the corn and add a burst of freshness.
• Experiment with Spices: Spice up your fritters by incorporating seasonings like smoked paprika, cumin, or chili powder into the batter. Adjust the spice level according to your taste preferences for a more personalized experience.
• Maintain Crispiness: To keep the fritters crispy, avoid overcrowding the pan during frying. Allow enough space between each fritter to ensure proper browning. If reheating, use an oven or toaster oven to maintain their crisp texture.

FAQ

Can I use frozen corn instead of canned corn in Vegan Corn Fritters?

• Yes, you can substitute frozen corn for canned corn. Thaw the frozen corn and drain any excess water before adding it to the batter.

Is it necessary to finely chop the onion for Vegan Corn Fritters?

• Finely chopping the onion helps distribute its flavor evenly throughout the fritters. However, you can adjust the chopping style based on your preference for onion texture.

Can I make the batter for Vegan Corn Fritters in advance?

• While the batter can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator, it’s best to cook the fritters just before serving to maintain their freshness and crispiness.

What’s the difference between oat milk and other non-dairy milk in Vegan Corn Fritters?

• Oat milk adds a slightly sweet and creamy flavor to the fritters. You can use other non-dairy milk like almond or soy, but it might alter the taste and texture subtly.

Can I bake Vegan Corn Fritters instead of frying?

• While frying gives the fritters a crispy exterior, you can bake them for a healthier option. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re golden brown.