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Smoky Corn and Shrimp Fritters Recipe

4.8 from 144 reviews

These Smoky Corn and Shrimp Fritters are crispy, flavorful patties combining sweet fresh corn and succulent shrimp with a smoky paprika kick. Perfect as a savory appetizer or light main dish, they are pan-fried until golden and served with fresh lemon wedges for a bright finish.

Ingredients

Scale

Shrimp Mixture

  • 1 pound uncooked peeled, deveined medium shrimp, thawed if frozen
  • 2 cups fresh corn kernels (from about 4 ears)
  • 2 scallions, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons coarsely chopped fresh Italian parsley leaves
  • 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt

For Frying

  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil

To Serve

  • Lemon wedges

Instructions

  1. Prepare the shrimp paste: Place two-thirds of the shrimp in a food processor fitted with the blade attachment and pulse until smooth to create a shrimp paste.
  2. Mix the fritter ingredients: Transfer the shrimp paste to a large bowl. Coarsely chop the remaining shrimp and add to the bowl along with the fresh corn kernels, sliced scallions, chopped parsley, smoked paprika, and kosher salt. Stir everything together thoroughly.
  3. Form the patties: Shape the mixture into 8 patties, about 2 1/2 inches wide each. Arrange on a large plate, cover, and chill in the refrigerator for up to overnight to help them firm up.
  4. Heat the oil: Warm the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering and hot enough for frying.
  5. Cook the fritters: Add 4 patties to the skillet and cook until golden brown on the bottom, about 2 to 3 minutes. Flip the patties carefully and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes, until the shrimp is opaque and the fritters are crisp on both sides.
  6. Finish cooking remaining fritters: Transfer the cooked fritters to a clean plate. Repeat the frying process with the remaining patties.
  7. Serve: Serve the fritters immediately while hot, garnished with fresh lemon wedges to squeeze for added brightness and tang.

Notes

  • Using fresh corn kernels adds sweetness and texture, but frozen corn can be substituted if fresh is unavailable.
  • Chilling the patties before frying helps them hold their shape and results in crispier fritters.
  • Adjust the heat carefully when frying to avoid burning while ensuring the shrimp cooks through.
  • These fritters can be kept warm in a low oven (around 200°F) while you finish cooking the batch.
  • Serve with a simple lemon aioli or spicy mayo for an extra flavor boost.

Keywords: shrimp fritters, corn fritters, smoky paprika, seafood appetizer, crispy fritters