Description
These Spicy Mexican Corn Bites are a flavorful and crispy appetizer that combines sweet corn, tangy cotija cheese, and a blend of smoky and spicy seasonings. Crisply pan-fried to golden perfection, these bite-sized patties are perfect for parties or as a savory snack, served with sour cream, hot sauce, or lime wedges for an extra zest.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups corn kernels (fresh, canned, or thawed from frozen)
- 1/2 cup cotija cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil for pan-frying
Instructions
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the corn, cotija cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper (if using), lime juice, chopped cilantro, chopped green onions, egg, and panko breadcrumbs. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well blended. Season the mixture with salt and pepper according to your taste.
- Form Patties: Using your hands or a scoop, shape the mixture into small, bite-sized patties, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter, making them easy to fry and serve.
- Heat Oil: Heat a thin layer of vegetable oil in a nonstick skillet over medium heat, ensuring it is hot enough to sizzle when a bite is added.
- Fry Corn Bites: Working in batches to avoid overcrowding, fry the corn patties for 2 to 3 minutes on each side, or until they develop a golden brown, crispy exterior.
- Drain Excess Oil: Remove the bites from the skillet and drain them on paper towels to absorb excess oil and keep them crisp.
- Serve Warm: Serve the spicy Mexican corn bites warm, alongside additional sour cream, hot sauce, or lime wedges as accompaniments for an enhanced flavor experience.
Notes
- For a healthier alternative, bake at 400°F for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
- To make the bites cheesier, add shredded pepper jack or cheddar cheese to the mixture before forming patties.
- These corn bites work great as appetizers or party snacks and pair well with spicy dips and fresh garnishes.
