Baby Corn Recipe: Crispy, Spicy & Irresistibly Delicious

Baby corn is one of those magical ingredients that never fails to impress. Whether you’re looking for a quick evening snack, a starter for your guests, or a side dish to go with fried rice and noodles, baby corn recipes always steal the show. With its crunchy texture, mild sweetness, and ability to soak up flavors, baby corn can transform into a crispy fry, a spicy Manchurian, or even a tangy chili-garlic stir fry.

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In this ultimate guide, we’ll dive into the world of baby corn recipes—covering fried versions, Indo-Chinese favorites, healthy stir-fries, and even restaurant-style recipes you can try at home. By the end, you’ll have multiple ways to cook baby corn, along with tips, tricks, and serving ideas.

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What is Baby Corn?

Baby corn is basically regular corn harvested early—before the kernels mature. It’s tender, slightly sweet, and entirely edible. Unlike mature corn, you don’t need to worry about husks or kernels; just chop, cook, and enjoy!

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Why Choose Baby Corn Recipes?

• Quick to cook – Needs less cooking time than other veggies.

• Versatile – Works for Indian, Chinese, and even fusion recipes.

• Nourishing and wholesome – gently low in calories, rich in fiber, and bursting with essential vitamins to keep you feeling your best.

• Crowd-pleaser – Kids love the crunch, and adults love the spice!

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Popular Baby Corn Dishes in India

1. Baby Corn Fry – Crispy, golden, and perfect for snacking.

2. Baby Corn Manchurian – Indo-Chinese classic with spicy sauce.

3. Baby Corn 65 – South Indian–style deep-fried starter.

4. Chili Garlic Baby Corn – A fiery stir-fry with bold flavors.

5. Baby Corn Masala – Creamy curry for chapati or rice.

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Ingredients You’ll Need for Baby Corn Recipes

No matter which recipe you pick, the basics are often the same:

• Fresh baby corn (or frozen)

• Corn flour & all-purpose flour (for crispiness)

• Spices: chili powder, turmeric, garam masala

• Soy sauce, chili sauce, vinegar (for Indo-Chinese recipes)

• Garlic, ginger, green chilies

• Onions, capsicum, spring onions

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How to Prepare Baby Corn Before Cooking

1. Wash thoroughly in running water.

2. Cut into halves or sticks depending on the recipe.

3. Blanch in hot water for 2–3 minutes if you want them soft inside.

4. Pat dry before frying (for extra crispiness).

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1. Baby Corn Fry Recipe (Crispy & Crunchy)

This is the simplest and most-loved version. A tea-time favorite and perfect with green chutney!

Ingredients

• Baby corn – 200 g

• Corn flour – 3 tbsp

• Rice flour – 2 tbsp

• Red chili powder – 1 tsp

• Turmeric – ¼ tsp

• Ginger-garlic paste – 1 tsp

• Salt – to taste

• Oil – for frying

Method

1. Mix flours, chili powder, turmeric, salt, and ginger-garlic paste.

2. Slowly pour in some water while mixing, until the batter becomes creamy and thick.

3. Dip baby corn pieces in the batter.

4. Deep fry until golden and crisp.

5. Serve hot with ketchup or mint chutney.

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2. Baby Corn Manchurian Recipe

This Indo-Chinese dish is a showstopper starter at any party.

Ingredients

• Fried baby corn (from above recipe)

• Garlic – 1 tbsp, chopped

• Onion – 1 medium, diced

• Capsicum – 1 medium, diced

• Green chili – 1, slit

• Soy sauce – 1 tbsp

• Red chili sauce – 1 tbsp

• Tomato ketchup – 1 tbsp

• Vinegar – 1 tsp

• Combine 2 teaspoons of cornstarch with ¼ cup of water, whisking until it turns silky and lump-free.

Method

1. Warm some oil in a wok, then sauté the garlic, onion, and capsicum until fragrant and lightly softened.

2. Add soy, chili sauce, ketchup, and vinegar. Stir well.

3. Pour in corn flour slurry to thicken the sauce.

4. Toss fried baby corn into the sauce.

5. Garnish with spring onions.

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3. Baby Corn 65 (South Indian Style)

A spicy, deep-fried version loaded with South Indian masala flavors.

Ingredients

• Baby corn – 200 g

• Corn flour – 3 tbsp

• Maida – 2 tbsp

• Rice flour – 1 tbsp

• Red chili powder – 2 tsp

• Curd – 2 tbsp

• Curry leaves – few

• Green chilies – 2 slit

• Oil – for frying

Method

1. Make a thick marinade with curd, flours, chili powder, and salt.

2. Coat baby corn pieces in the marinade.

3. Deep fry until crisp.

4. Fry curry leaves and green chilies, then toss with fried baby corn.

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4. Chili Garlic Baby Corn Recipe

For spice lovers—this fiery dish is a must-try!

Ingredients

• Baby corn – 200 g

• Garlic – 2 tbsp chopped

• Red chili flakes – 1 tsp

• Soy sauce – 1 tbsp

• Green chili – 1, chopped

• Spring onion greens – for garnish

Method

1. Heat oil, sauté garlic and green chili.

2. Add blanched baby corn, toss on high flame.

3. Season with chili flakes, soy sauce, and salt.

4. Garnish with spring onion greens.

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5. Baby Corn Masala (Restaurant-Style Curry)

When you want a curry version for roti or rice, this one’s a winner.

Ingredients

• Baby corn – 200 g

• Onion – 2, pureed

• Tomato – 2, pureed

• Ginger-garlic paste – 1 tbsp

• Cashew paste – 2 tbsp

• Turmeric – ¼ tsp

• Chili powder – 1 tsp

• Garam masala – 1 tsp

• Cream – 2 tbsp

Method

1. Heat oil, sauté onion paste until golden.

2. Add ginger-garlic paste, then tomato puree. Cook well.

3. Add turmeric, chili powder, and garam masala.

4. Stir in cashew paste and cream.

5. Add boiled baby corn pieces and simmer.

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Tips for the Best Baby Corn Recipes

• Always dry baby corn before frying for maximum crispiness.

• Use high flame for Indo-Chinese dishes to get that smoky flavor.

• Don’t overcook; baby corn should remain crunchy.

• For healthier versions, bake or air fry instead of deep frying.

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What to Serve With Baby Corn Recipes?

• Starters – Enjoy them with zesty green chutney, tangy ketchup, or spicy Schezwan sauce for an extra burst of flavor.

• Mains – Pair Manchurian or chili garlic baby corn with fried rice or noodles.

• Indian Meals – Curry versions go best with chapati, naan, or jeera rice.

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Health Benefits of Baby Corn

• Low in calories, making it diet-friendly.

• Rich in fiber, aids digestion.

• Good source of vitamins A, B, and C.

• Contains antioxidants that boost immunity.

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Baby Corn Recipe Variations

• Air Fryer Baby Corn – Oil-free crispy version.

• Baked Baby Corn Fries – Healthy alternative to deep fry.

• Stuffed Baby Corn – Filled with cheese or paneer for a twist.

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Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

• Store uncooked baby corn in an airtight box in the fridge (up to 4 days).

• For prepped recipes, fry baby corn once and reheat in an oven before serving.

• Avoid storing saucy dishes for long—they lose crispiness.

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Why Homemade Baby Corn Recipes Are Better

Compared to restaurant versions, homemade recipes:

• Use less oil.

• Can be customized for spice levels.

• Are made fresh and hygienic.

• Cost much less than takeout.

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Final Thoughts

Baby corn is a versatile ingredient that can fit into so many styles of cooking. Whether you want the crispy crunch of baby corn fry, the fiery punch of chili garlic baby corn, or the saucy delight of baby corn Manchurian, there’s a recipe for every mood. With just a few pantry staples and fresh baby corn, you can whip up restaurant-quality dishes at home.

So next time you’re craving something crunchy and flavorful, ditch the takeout and try one of these baby corn recipes—you’ll thank yourself later!

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FAQs

Q1: Can I make baby corn recipes without deep frying?
Yes! You can air fry or bake baby corn with just a light coating of oil for a healthier alternative.

Q2: Do I need to boil baby corn before frying?
Blanching for 2–3 minutes softens it slightly, but it’s optional. For extra crunch, fry directly.

Q3: Which is the best baby corn recipe for kids?
Crispy baby corn fry with mild spices is usually a hit with kids.

Q4: Can I use frozen baby corn?
Yes, just thaw and pat dry before cooking to avoid sogginess.

Q5: What’s the best dip for baby corn snacks?
Green chutney, schezwan sauce, garlic mayo, or classic tomato ketchup pair perfectly.