Description
Spicy Mexican corn bites blend classic street corn flavors into crispy appetizer perfection. Zesty seasonings and creamy cheese create irresistible small plates you’ll crave with friends and family.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups (16 oz) frozen corn kernels, thawed (or fresh corn)
- ½ cup (4 oz) crumbled cotija cheese (or feta)
- ½ cup (4 oz) shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsps diced jalapenos (fresh or pickled)
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 large egg
- ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- Lime wedges
- Extra cilantro
- Chili powder or Tajin
Instructions
- Mixture Preparation: Thoroughly combine corn, cotija, cheddar, cilantro, jalapenos, egg, flour, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a large mixing bowl until a unified, textured consistency forms.
- Shaping and Forming: Mold the mixture into uniform bite-sized spheres or compact discs, ensuring even sizing for consistent cooking performance.
- Oil Heating: Warm vegetable oil in a heavy skillet over medium heat, testing readiness by dropping a small batter portion that sizzles instantly upon contact.
- Frying Process: Carefully lower corn bites into hot oil in strategic batches, avoiding overcrowding. Rotate each bite to achieve a golden-brown, crispy exterior while maintaining a tender interior.
- Draining and Finishing: Remove fried bites onto paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil, preserving a light and crisp texture.
- Serving Presentation: Arrange corn bites on a serving platter, garnish with additional chopped cilantro, sprinkle Tajin or chili powder for heightened flavor, and accompany with fresh lime wedges to elevate the taste profile.
Notes
- Manage Oil Temperature: Maintain consistent medium heat around 350-375°F to prevent burning while ensuring crispy, golden exterior without greasy residue.
- Prevent Mixture Separation: Add flour and egg gradually, mixing thoroughly to create stable binding that prevents corn bites from falling apart during frying.
- Enhance Texture Techniques: Refrigerate mixture for 15-30 minutes before forming bites to help them hold shape and reduce potential oil splattering during cooking.
- Dietary Adaptations: Swap regular flour with gluten-free alternatives like almond or chickpea flour for celiac-friendly version; replace dairy cheese with nutritional yeast for vegan option.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 5
- Calories: 198
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 250 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 19 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 8 g
- Cholesterol: 37 mg