Description
These Spicy Mexican Corn Bites are crispy and flavorful snacks made with fresh corn, cheese, and spices. Ideal for parties or family gatherings, they are easy to prepare and can be enjoyed with sour cream or guacamole for an extra kick!
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups fresh corn kernels (about 4 ears of corn) or 1 can (15 oz) of sweet corn, drained
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornmeal
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Optional: sour cream or guacamole for serving
Instructions
- Start by gathering all your ingredients on the counter for a smoother process.
- If using fresh corn, cut the kernels off the cob to yield about 2 cups. If using canned corn, drain it well.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornmeal, baking powder, baking soda, salt, black pepper, chili powder, and cayenne pepper. Whisk until well mixed.
- In another bowl, beat the eggs and add the milk, mixing until fully combined.
- Pour the egg and milk mixture into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. A few lumps are fine.
- Fold in the corn kernels, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped cilantro, and red onion.
- Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat until hot enough that a small drop of batter sizzles.
- Prepare a plate lined with paper towels to drain the cooked corn bites.
- Drop spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil, cooking about 4-5 at a time to avoid overcrowding.
- Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy, keeping an eye on them to prevent burning.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the corn bites and place them on the paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Repeat the frying process with the remaining batter, adjusting the heat as necessary.
- Arrange the cooked corn bites on a serving platter.
- Optionally, sprinkle extra chopped cilantro on top for color.
- Serve warm with sour cream or guacamole for dipping. These bites are perfect for parties, game days, or as a fun snack!
Notes
- For added heat, mix in diced jalapeños or use pepper jack cheese.
- For a healthier version, bake instead of frying: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C), place batter on a greased baking sheet, and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Experiment with different herbs and spices like cumin or smoked paprika for unique flavors.
- These bites can be made ahead and reheated in the oven for crispiness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes