Crispy and gluten-free: Enjoy this fair food classic at home!
Corn dogs, those delicious handhelds often sold at fairs and other outdoor events, have been around a long time here in the States. While several different entities claim to have invented them, suffice to say they have been popular since the 1940s. Two notable early examples have cute names: the Fletch brothers’ Corny Dogs, sold at the Texas State Fair, and the Boyingtons’ Pronto Pup, first developed and sold in Oregon. Despite these cute names, in general, most of us know this treat as corn dogs.
Traditional corn dogs are simply a hot dog (speared with a skewer) dipped in a cornbread-like batter and cooked in a deep fryer. The result is a wonderfully slightly sweet and savory flavor of the cornbread coating and steaming hot dog. However, if you follow a gluten-free diet, traditional corn dogs are usually not an option. What if you could make a gluten-free corn dog right in your own kitchen?
It’s not only possible but also fairly easy. Gluten-free corn dogs are a great way to enjoy this nostalgic fair food at home. If you have a deep fryer you can use, great. If not, no problem; you can certainly fry these treats in a regular heavy-bottomed pot. The crispy-on-the-outside cornbread is soft and tender on the inside and tastes great with the hot dog. Gluten-free corn dogs are fun for dinner, snacks, or a party, and you’ll never miss the gluten.
Temperature check for hot oil
If you are using a deep fryer, the appliance will automatically register when the oil is at 350°F. However, if you are using a pot to fry the corn dogs, how do you know when the oil is at 350°F? You’ll need to use a special thermometer. Often labeled candy, deep-frying, or chocolate thermometers, these instruments typically measure temperatures up to 400°F. Whether you use an analog or digital one doesn’t matter, but it’s crucial to check the temperature of the hot oil for accuracy to avoid undercooking or burning.
How do I store leftovers?
Store cooled, leftover corn dogs in an airtight container or resealable bag. Refrigerate them for up to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then again in foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or in the microwave before reheating. To serve, reheat in an oven preheated to 300°F until warm.
Serving suggestions
Can you serve corn dogs for dinner? Absolutely. Serve gluten-free corn dogs with Air-Fryer French Fries and a side of coleslaw or Broccoli Slaw. For dipping or drizzling, set out yellow mustard, ketchup, and barbecue sauce. These gluten-free dogs are also great for a birthday or themed party. You can serve alongside other classic fair treats like Fried Pickles (substitute gluten-free flour for the all-purpose flour), Caramel Popcorn, and cotton candy for a fun, whimsical menu.
Gluten-Free Corn Dogs
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup gluten-free cornmeal
- 3/4 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 large egg beaten
- 2/3 cup buttermilk
- 9 gluten-free hot dogs
- vegetable oil for frying
- 9 wooden skewers
- Ketchup mustard, or other sauce for dipping
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together cornmeal, gluten-free flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Add the beaten egg and buttermilk, and stir until smooth. If the batter is too thick for dipping, add a little more buttermilk to reach the desired consistency.
- Pat the hot dogs dry with paper towels. Insert a wooden skewer into each hot dog, pushing it halfway through.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F. Dip each skewered hot dog into the batter, ensuring it is completely coated.
- Fry the corn dogs in the hot oil until golden brown and crispy, about 3-5 minutes. Drain on paper towels.
- Serve warm with preferred dipping sauce.
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