Description
Spicy Mexican Corn Bites blend street corn magic with crispy appetizer charm. Creamy, zesty kernels nestled in golden-brown shells promise a mouthwatering journey through Mexican culinary traditions you cannot resist.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups (473 ml) corn kernels, frozen, thawed (or fresh)
- ½ cup (120 ml) cotija cheese, crumbled (or feta)
- ½ cup (120 ml) cheddar cheese, shredded
- ⅓ cup (80 ml) all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsps (30 ml) jalapenos, diced (fresh or pickled)
- ¼ cup (60 ml) cilantro, fresh, chopped
- 1 tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- Lime wedges
- Extra cilantro
- Chili powder or Tajin
Instructions
- Mixture Creation: 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 uniform, dense texture forms.
- Shaping and Preparation: Craft compact, uniform bite-sized spheres or discs from the mixture, arranging them carefully on a designated plate.
- Oil Heating and Frying: Heat vegetable oil in a skillet to medium temperature, ensuring one-inch depth. Test oil readiness by dropping a small batter sample that sizzles upon contact. Introduce corn bites in controlled batches, avoiding overcrowding. Rotate each bite consistently, achieving a golden, crisp exterior within 2-3 minutes per side.
- Draining and Finishing: Transfer fried bites to paper towel-lined surfaces to absorb excess oil. Plate the corn bites elegantly, garnishing with fresh cilantro, a light dusting of chili powder or Tajin, and accompanying lime wedges for a vibrant flavor profile.
Notes
- Prevent Moisture Overload: Drain corn kernels thoroughly to avoid soggy bites that won’t hold their shape during frying.
- Manage Oil Temperature: Keep oil consistently around 350-375°F to ensure crispy exterior without burning or undercooking the interior.
- Control Mixture Consistency: Add flour gradually to maintain binding without creating a dense, heavy texture that could make bites tough.
- Enhance Vegetarian Option: Substitute egg with ground flaxseed or chia seed mixture for plant-based protein binding and dietary flexibility.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 5
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 320 mg
- Fat: 9 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 40 mg