George Bluth's Cornballer
Introduction
The Cornballer is an iconic deep-fried treat famously known for its appearance in the hit TV show "Arrested Development." Invented by George Bluth, this appliance was initially conceived as a fun and easy way to make delicious fried corn fritters at home. Despite its flammable reputation and legal challenges due to safety hazards, the Cornballer remains a part of pop culture and an ode to comedic inventions. Let's dive into the art of crafting these delicious cornballs, with all safety precautions adhered to, of course.
Ingredients
- Cornmeal - 2 cups
- All-purpose Flour - 1 cup
- Baking Powder - 1 tablespoon
- Sugar - 2 tablespoons
- Salt - 1 teaspoon
- Milk - 1 1/4 cups
- Egg - 1 large
- Corn Kernels (fresh or frozen) - 1 cup
- Vegetable Oil - for frying
Preparation
1. Mixing the Batter
Start by combining the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt in a large bowl. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk and egg until well blended. Stir the wet ingredients into the dry mixture until smooth. Fold in the corn kernels, ensuring even distribution throughout the batter.
2. Preparing to Fry
Heat the vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 365°F (185°C). This step is crucial as the ideal temperature ensures a crispy outside with a perfectly cooked inside. Utilize a cooking timer to maintain accuracy.
Cooking Process
1. Frying the Cornballs
Using a spoon or small ice cream scoop, carefully drop spoonfuls of batter into the hot vegetable oil. Fry 6-8 cornballs at a time to avoid overcrowding, ensuring consistent heat exposure. Allow them to fry for 3-5 minutes or until they achieve a golden brown hue. Use a slotted spoon to remove cornballs, placing them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
2. Safety Precautions
As with any deep-frying dish, caution is of utmost importance. Maintain a safe distance while frying and monitor the cooking timer closely. Always have a kitchen fire extinguisher on hand, and never leave the fryer unattended.
Serving Suggestions
Once the cornballs have drained and cooled slightly, they are ready to enjoy. Serve them hot with your choice of dipping sauces such as spicy salsa, creamy ranch, or a tangy barbecue sauce. These cornballs are best enjoyed with friends and family, bringing a taste of "Arrested Development" into the home.
Conclusion
George Bluth's Cornballer offers both a delicious treat and a humorous nod to fans of the series. While we may not have the original Cornballer gadget, following this recipe ensures you can safely and successfully recreate the memorable delights without injury. Remember to enjoy responsibly and cherish the joy of laughter and good food.