📝 About This Recipe
These vibrant, plant-based fritters capture the essence of summer with every crunchy bite, utilizing the air fryer to achieve a perfect golden crust without the heavy oil of traditional deep-frying. Inspired by classic Southern corn cakes and Southeast Asian street food, these patties are packed with sweet kernels, aromatic herbs, and a hint of smoky spice. Using silken tofu as a secret binding agent ensures a moist, protein-rich interior that remains completely vegan while satisfying even the most dedicated comfort food lovers.
🥗 Ingredients
The Fritter Base
- 2.5 cups Sweet Corn Kernels (fresh off the cob or thawed from frozen)
- 1/2 cup Silken Tofu (blended until smooth to act as a binder)
- 3/4 cup All-Purpose Flour (can substitute with chickpea flour for extra protein)
- 1/4 cup Cornmeal (adds essential crunch and texture)
- 1 teaspoon Baking Powder (for a light, airy lift)
Aromatics & Seasoning
- 3 pieces Scallions (finely sliced, white and green parts)
- 1/4 cup Fresh Cilantro (finely chopped)
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Smoked Paprika (for a subtle campfire depth)
- 1 tablespoon Nutritional Yeast (for a savory, 'cheesy' undertone)
- 1/2 teaspoon Sea Salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper (freshly cracked)
- 1 Avocado Oil Spray (high smoke point for air frying)
Zesty Dipping Sauce
- 1/2 cup Vegan Mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Sriracha or Chili Sauce (adjust for heat preference)
- 1 tablespoon Lime Juice (freshly squeezed)
👨🍳 Instructions
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1
If using fresh corn, shuck the ears and carefully remove the kernels with a sharp knife. If using frozen, ensure they are completely thawed and patted dry with a paper towel to prevent a soggy batter.
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2
In a small blender or food processor, whirl the silken tofu until it is completely smooth and creamy, resembling the consistency of heavy cream.
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3
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cornmeal, baking powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, nutritional yeast, salt, and pepper until well combined.
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4
Create a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the blended silken tofu. Stir gently with a wooden spoon until a thick, tacky batter forms.
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5
Fold in the corn kernels, sliced scallions, and chopped cilantro. The batter should be chunky and hold its shape when scooped; if it feels too wet, add another tablespoon of flour.
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6
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for at least 5 minutes to ensure a hot cooking environment.
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7
Line the air fryer basket with a perforated parchment paper liner or lightly spray the grate with avocado oil to prevent sticking.
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8
Using a large spoon or a cookie scoop, portion out the batter into roughly 2-tablespoon mounds. Flatten them slightly with the back of the spoon into 1/2-inch thick patties.
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9
Place the fritters in the air fryer basket, leaving at least an inch of space between each to allow for proper air circulation. You will likely need to cook in two batches.
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10
Lightly spray the tops of the fritters with avocado oil. Air fry for 8-10 minutes.
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11
Carefully flip the fritters using a thin spatula. Spray the other side lightly with oil and air fry for an additional 6-8 minutes until both sides are deep golden brown and crispy.
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12
While the fritters cook, whisk together the vegan mayonnaise, sriracha, and lime juice in a small bowl to create the dipping sauce.
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13
Transfer the finished fritters to a wire rack for 2 minutes; this allows the steam to escape so the bottoms stay crunchy.
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14
Serve warm with a dollop of the spicy mayo and an extra sprinkle of fresh scallions.
💡 Chef's Tips
For the ultimate crunch, use a coarse-grind cornmeal rather than a fine corn flour. Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; if the fritters touch, they will steam instead of crisping up. If your batter seems too dry, add a teaspoon of water or plant milk at a time until it reaches a scoopable consistency. To make these gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend or chickpea flour. Leftovers can be reheated in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes to restore their original crispiness.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Pair with a crisp, cold lager or a sparkling lime seltzer to cut through the richness. Serve alongside a bright tomato and avocado salad for a complete light lunch. Top with a spoonful of mango salsa for a tropical, sweet-and-spicy twist. These make excellent 'sliders' when placed inside small brioche-style vegan buns with slaw. Serve as an appetizer with a side of pickled red onions and extra lime wedges.