Roasting Canned Corn In An Air Fryer: Easy, Quick, Delicious!

Canned corn is a versatile side dish that can be prepared in an air fryer for a quick, tasty, and healthy snack. This method of preparation enhances the natural sweetness of the corn and gives it a crispy texture similar to roasted or grilled corn. Air-frying canned corn is also a convenient option when fresh corn is unavailable or in short supply. By following a few simple steps, you can transform this pantry staple into a delicious and appetizing dish with a crispy, golden exterior.

How to prepare canned corn for the air fryer

Ingredients

• Canned corn
• Butter
• Seasonings (salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika)
• Fresh parsley (optional)

Step-by-Step Guide

• Prepare the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
• Drain and Rinse the Corn: Open the can of corn, drain the liquid, and rinse the kernels under cold water to remove excess salt and starch.
• Dry the Corn: Use a paper towel to pat the corn dry, ensuring there is no moisture left.
• Add Seasonings: Place the corn kernels in an oven-safe baking dish that fits your air fryer. Add the desired amount of butter and season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste. You can also include other seasonings like paprika or fresh cilantro for an extra kick.
• Air Fry the Corn: Place the baking dish in the air fryer and cook at 400°F for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket occasionally to ensure even cooking. The corn is ready when it is crispy and golden brown.
• Serve: Remove the corn from the air fryer and serve hot. You can also add some freshly chopped parsley on top for extra freshness.

Tips:

• Container: Choose an oven-safe baking dish that fits comfortably within your air fryer, such as an 8-inch cake pan.
• Rinsing Corn: Rinsing the canned corn with water helps reduce sodium content by up to 23%, according to a USDA study.
• Oil Option: While not necessary, you can give the corn a light spray of olive or avocado oil before air frying for some extra crispness.
• Reheating: To reheat leftover corn, use the air fryer at 350°F (180°C) for 5-7 minutes or until heated through.

The best seasonings for canned corn

Canned corn is a versatile dish that can be seasoned in many ways to enhance its natural sweetness and flavour. Here are some of the best seasonings and flavour combinations to try:

Spicy

For those who like their food with a kick, try adding some heat to your canned corn. Mix in some diced jalapeño, a sprinkle of cayenne pepper, or a dash of Cajun seasoning. If you're feeling adventurous, you can also add some crushed garlic for an extra punch of flavour.

Cheesy

For a creamy and tangy twist, stir in some cream cheese or sprinkle on some queso fresco, cotija, or feta cheese. The heat from the corn will slightly melt the cheese, creating a delicious and indulgent side dish.

Herby

Fresh herbs can add a burst of freshness and flavour to canned corn. Try using chopped cilantro or parsley, or a combination of both. You can also experiment with other herbs such as rosemary or thyme to find your perfect flavour profile.

Savoury

To balance the sweetness of the corn, add some savoury seasonings like garlic powder, salt, and pepper. You can also use unsalted butter to add a rich, savoury note to the dish. If you want to take it up a notch, try using brown butter and roasted garlic for a deeper, more complex flavour.

Sweet and tangy

For a unique flavour combination, add a splash of lime juice and some chopped cilantro. This variation pairs perfectly with tacos or Mexican-inspired dishes. You can also add a touch of honey or a sprinkle of sugar to enhance the natural sweetness of the corn.

Smoky

Smoked paprika can add a beautiful touch of colour and a smoky flavour to your canned corn. You can also experiment with other types of paprika or even a pinch of smoked garlic salt for an extra savoury note.

When seasoning your canned corn, don't be afraid to get creative and combine different flavours to find your favourite taste. Remember, the air fryer helps to enhance the natural sweetness of the corn and creates a crispy texture, so you're already off to a great start!

How long to cook canned corn in an air fryer

Canned corn is a versatile and convenient ingredient that can be transformed into a delicious and healthy side dish using an air fryer. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to roast canned corn in your air fryer, with a specific focus on the cooking time.

Step 1: Prepare the Canned Corn

Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This temperature setting is ideal for achieving that crispy texture and enhancing the corn's natural sweetness. Open your can of corn, drain the liquid, and give the kernels a quick rinse. It's important to remove excess salt and starch by rinsing the corn under cold water. Pat the corn dry with a paper towel to ensure there is no excess moisture, as this can affect the cooking process and texture.

Step 2: Season the Corn

Place the drained and dried corn kernels in an oven-safe baking dish that fits your air fryer. You can use an 8-inch cake pan, but the size may vary depending on your air fryer model. Add your choice of seasonings to the corn. You can keep it simple with salt and pepper, or get creative with garlic powder, paprika (regular or smoked), or even a sprinkle of cheese. For a tangy twist, you can also add a squeeze of lime juice.

Step 3: Air Fry the Corn

Now it's time to cook your canned corn in the air fryer. Place the seasoned corn in the air fryer basket, ensuring it's spread in a single layer for even cooking. Add a couple of pads of butter on top, which will melt and add a savory touch to the dish. Set the air fryer temperature to 400°F, and cook the corn for 8-10 minutes. It's important to keep an eye on the corn during this process to avoid overcooking. Shake the basket occasionally to ensure even cooking and a consistent golden brown color.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Once the corn is crispy and golden, remove it from the air fryer and serve it hot. You can add some final touches like fresh herbs such as parsley or cilantro for a burst of freshness. This air-fried canned corn makes a perfect side dish for grilled meats or vegetarian options and is sure to impress at your next family dinner or barbecue.

Tips for Success

• Always drain and dry the canned corn before cooking to prevent sogginess.
• Spread the corn in a single layer in the air fryer basket for even cooking and crispiness.
• Preheat the air fryer for a few minutes to ensure consistent results.
• Check the corn frequently during cooking and adjust the timing as needed to avoid overcooking.
• Get creative with your toppings and seasonings to make each serving unique.

By following these steps and timing your cooking process right, you'll end up with delicious, crispy canned corn that's sure to be a hit!

How to reheat leftover canned corn in an air fryer

To reheat leftover canned corn in an air fryer, follow these steps:

Firstly, preheat your air fryer to 350°F (180°C). This temperature will ensure your corn is heated through without burning.

Next, prepare your canned corn. Drain the liquid from the can and give the corn a quick rinse under cold water to remove any excess salt and starch. Pat the corn dry with a paper towel to remove any remaining moisture and prevent sogginess.

Now, you can spread the corn in a single layer in the air fryer basket. If you're reheating a large amount of corn, you may need to do this in batches to ensure even cooking. Add a couple of pats of butter on top for some extra flavor (optional).

Place the basket in the air fryer and cook for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket occasionally to ensure the corn is heated through and crispy.

Once the corn is ready, remove it from the air fryer and serve immediately. You can add some final toppings such as grated Parmesan cheese, chopped cilantro, or a squeeze of lime juice for some extra flavor.

And that's it! A simple and quick way to reheat your leftover canned corn, transforming it into a delicious and crispy side dish.

How to cook corn on the cob in an air fryer

Ingredients:

• Corn on the cob
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Paprika
• Lime
• Chilli powder (optional)

Method:

First, preheat your air fryer to 180°C or 380°F/190°C, depending on your chosen recipe.

Next, remove the husk and any silk from the corn. If the corn has a stalk, you can cut this off, and you may also wish to cut the corn in half, especially if your air fryer is on the smaller side.

Now, season the corn with salt, black pepper, and paprika. You can also add lime and chilli powder for a tangy twist. Brush the corn with melted butter or ghee, coating it evenly.

Place the corn into the air fryer basket and cook for 10 minutes. Then, turn the corn to the other side, brush with more butter or ghee, and cook for another 5-8 minutes, until slightly charred.

Your corn is now ready to be served! You can add more butter, salt, and pepper to taste, and it pairs well with roast chicken or fish.

Tips:

• Don't overcrowd your air fryer. Cook the corn in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking.
• Check the corn frequently to avoid overcooking.
• You can reheat any leftover corn in the air fryer for 3-5 minutes.
• There is no need to preheat your air fryer before cooking corn.

Frequently asked questions