Spicy Mexican Corn Bites (Print-Friendly Format)

Crispy corn bites with cheese, chili, and lime bring bold street snack flavor for gatherings or snacking.

# Required Ingredients:

→ Corn Bites

01 - 300 g frozen corn kernels, thawed or fresh corn
02 - 65 g cotija cheese, crumbled (or feta cheese)
03 - 60 g cheddar cheese, shredded
04 - 15 g fresh cilantro, finely chopped
05 - 2 tablespoons diced jalapeños, fresh or pickled
06 - 1 large egg
07 - 45 g all-purpose flour
08 - 1 teaspoon chili powder
09 - 0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika
10 - 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
11 - Salt and ground black pepper, to taste

→ For Frying

12 - Vegetable oil, for deep frying

→ For Garnish

13 - Lime wedges
14 - Chopped fresh cilantro
15 - Chili powder or Tajín, for sprinkling

# How to Make It:

01 - In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly blend corn kernels, cotija cheese, cheddar cheese, cilantro, diced jalapeños, egg, flour, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until the mixture is cohesive and thick.
02 - Portion the mixture by heaping tablespoons and form into compact balls or patties. Arrange on a plate or lined tray.
03 - Fill a deep skillet with approximately 2.5 cm of vegetable oil and warm over medium heat. When a drop of batter sizzles immediately, the oil is at frying temperature.
04 - Working in batches, gently lower corn bites into the hot oil. Fry 2–3 minutes per side until uniformly golden and crisp. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on kitchen paper.
05 - Plate the fried corn bites, scatter with fresh cilantro and extra chili powder or Tajín, and serve lime wedges alongside.

# Additional Information:

01 - For a lighter preparation, bake at 200°C for 15–20 minutes, turning halfway, or use an air fryer at 190°C for 10–12 minutes.
02 - Recommended accompaniments include sour cream, guacamole, or spicy mayonnaise.
03 - For added texture, incorporate diced red bell pepper or chopped green onions into the corn mixture.