Instructions
Step 1
In a medium bowl, stir together the corn, onion, cilantro, chile powder, coriander, and cumin, and season to taste with salt. Sift the chickpea flour over the ingredients and toss gently. Add the sparkling water and use your fingers to mix, thoroughly coating the vegetables in the thin batter.
Step 2
Into a large, heavy-bottomed pot fitted with a deep-fry thermometer, pour the oil to a depth of 1½ inches and turn the heat to medium-high. When the temperature reads 340°F, working in batches, carefully drop the batter by rounded tablespoons into the oil (avoid crowding the pan) and fry until crispy and golden brown, 2–2½ minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the fritters to a paper towel-lined baking sheet to drain.
Step 3
Serve hot, with mint-and-cilantro chutney, if desired.