Introduction Spicy Mexican Corn Bites are a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer packed with bold flavors. Perfect for parties, game nights, or a quick snack, these crispy bites are a crowd-pleaser. Made with fresh corn, cheese, and a blend of Mexican spices, they offer a perfect balance of heat and crunch. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cornmeal
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup milk
- Oil for frying
- Lime wedges for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the corn, cheddar cheese, cotija cheese, flour, cornmeal, cilantro, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
- Add Wet Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and milk. Pour into the corn mixture and stir until a thick batter forms.
- Heat the Oil: In a deep skillet, heat about 1/2 inch of oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the Bites: Using a spoon or your hands, form small balls or patties with the batter. Carefully drop them into the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
- Drain and Serve: Remove the bites from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve warm with lime wedges and your favorite dipping sauce.
FAQs Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the bites on a lined baking sheet, and bake for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare and shape the bites, then refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before frying or baking.
What dipping sauces pair well with these?
Try them with sour cream, guacamole, salsa, or a spicy chipotle aioli for extra flavor.
Notes & More
- For an extra kick, add diced jalapeños to the batter.
- These bites are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer to retain crispiness.
- If using frozen corn, thaw and drain it well before mixing.
Enjoy your Spicy Mexican Corn Bites!
