Crunchy Mexican Street Corn Fritters Recipe

Mexican Street Corn Fritters are the perfect combination of crunchiness on the outside and gooey cheesiness on the inside. Inspired by the flavors of Mexican street food, these fritters bring the delightful taste of elote (Mexican street corn) into bite-sized snacks. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, looking for a flavorful appetizer, or just craving a quick and indulgent treat, these fritters will satisfy your taste buds. With fresh corn kernels, Cotija cheese, and a hint of spices, every bite is a burst of flavor. Pair them with lime wedges and extra cheese for an authentic touch!

Preparation Details

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 2 cups corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned, drained)
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup cornmeal
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup grated Cotija cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup milk
• Vegetable oil, for frying
• Lime wedges, for serving
• Additional Cotija cheese, for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornmeal, baking powder, chili powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to ensure all the spices are evenly distributed.

Add the corn kernels, grated Cotija cheese, and chopped cilantro to the dry ingredients. Stir until the corn and cheese are well-coated with the flour mixture.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg and milk. Pour this wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring until a thick batter forms. The consistency should be scoopable but not too runny.

Step 2: Heat the Oil

Pour about 1 inch of vegetable oil into a deep skillet or frying pan. Heat the oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, drop a small dollop of batter into the oil – it should sizzle and float to the surface.

Step 3: Fry the Fritters

Using a tablespoon or small ice cream scoop, drop spoonfuls of batter into the hot oil. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan; fry in batches if necessary.

Cook each fritter for 2–3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the fritters from the oil and transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Arrange the fritters on a serving platter. Sprinkle them with additional Cotija cheese and fresh cilantro. Serve with lime wedges on the side to add a burst of tanginess.

Pro Tips for Success

• Fresh Corn: If using fresh corn, boil the cobs for 5–7 minutes, then slice off the kernels.
• Cheese Substitute: If Cotija cheese isn’t available, use Parmesan or feta as a substitute.
• Extra Crispy: For even crispier fritters, let the batter chill in the fridge for 10 minutes before frying.

Mexican Street Corn Fritters are a delightful way to enjoy the vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine. Perfectly golden and crispy, these fritters are a hit at any gathering or as a quick snack for your family. The combination of corn, Cotija cheese, and aromatic spices creates a flavor profile that’s hard to resist.

Whether you dip them in sour cream, pair them with a fresh salsa, or enjoy them plain, these fritters will undoubtedly become a favorite in your household. Try this recipe today and bring the taste of Mexican street food to your table!