Corn Fritters

Ingredients :

• 2 cups fresh corn kernels 
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour 
• 1/4 cup cornmeal 
• 1 tsp baking powder 
• 1/2 tsp salt 
• 1/4 tsp black pepper 
• 1/2 cup milk 
• 1 egg 
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro 
• 1/2 cup grated cheese (optional: grated cheddar cheese or Parmesan)
• Vegetable oil (for frying)

Instructions :

1. Prepare the Corn:
   Use your corn dehusker to remove the kernels from 2-3 ears of fresh corn. This should give you about 2 cups of corn kernels. Set them aside.

2. Make the Batter:
   In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cornmeal, baking powder, salt, and black pepper. In another bowl, whisk the egg and milk together. Combine the wet ingredients with the dry ingredients, stirring until just mixed.

3. Add Corn and Optional Ingredients:
   Stir in the fresh corn kernels and chopped cilantro. If you're using cheese, add it to the batter at this stage. The batter should be thick but scoopable.

4. Heat the Oil:
   Heat a few tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. You want the oil to be hot but not smoking—test by dropping a small amount of batter into the pan. If it sizzles, the oil is ready.

5. Fry the Fritters:
   Using a spoon or small ice cream scoop, drop spoonfuls of the corn batter into the hot oil. Flatten them slightly with the back of the spoon. Fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.

6. Drain and Serve:
   Remove the fritters from the pan and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Serve hot, with a dipping sauce like sour cream or salsa on the side if you like.