Mexican Street Corn Fritters (Esquites-Inspired)

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Crispy on the outside, creamy on the inside—these Mexican Street Corn Fritters pack all the bold flavors of elote (grilled Mexican street corn) into irresistible golden bites. Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or side dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✅ All the flavor of elote – In easy-to-eat fritter form
✅ Crispy-creamy texture – Golden crust with sweet corn centers
✅ Ready in 30 minutes – Faster than grilling corn
✅ Party-perfect – Great for game day or Cinco de Mayo

Ingredients & Substitutions

For the Fritters

  • 2 cups (300g) corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
  • ½ cup (60g) flour (or masa harina for authentic flavor)
  • ¼ cup (25g) cotija cheese, crumbled
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tbsp mayonnaise
  • 1 tbsp lime juice
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika
  • 2 tbsp chopped cilantro
  • 1 jalapeño, minced (optional)
  • Oil for frying

For Serving

  • Lime wedges
  • Extra cotija & chili powder
  • Cilantro crema (mix sour cream + lime zest + cilantro)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Corn

  1. If using fresh corn, char kernels in a dry skillet for 2-3 minutes.
  2. Pat frozen/canned corn very dry with paper towels.

2. Make the Batter

  1. In a bowl, mix corn, flour, cotija, egg, mayo, lime juice, spices, and cilantro.
  2. Fold in jalapeño if using. The mix should be sticky but hold together.

3. Fry to Golden Perfection

  1. Heat ½ inch oil in a skillet to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Scoop 2-tbsp portions of batter, flatten slightly, and fry 2-3 minutes per side until crispy.
  3. Drain on paper towels.

4. Serve Hot!

  • Sprinkle with extra cotija, chili powder, and lime juice.
  • Drizzle with cilantro crema or hot sauce.

Pro Tips

🌽 Corn choice: Charred fresh corn adds smoky depth, but frozen works in a pinch.
🔥 Oil temp: Use a thermometer—too cool = greasy, too hot = burns.
🔄 Baking option: Spray with oil and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15 mins (flip halfway).

Variations

🧀 Queso Fundido Style: Stuff each fritter with Oaxaca cheese.
🥑 Avocado Lime: Mix diced avocado into the crema.
🍤 Surf & Turf: Add chopped cooked shrimp to the batter.

FAQs

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes! Use GF flour or masa harina.

How do I store leftovers?

Fridge for 2 days (re-crisp in air fryer at 350°F for 3 mins).

Can I use canned corn?

Yes—just drain and pat very dry to prevent sogginess.

Final Thoughts

These Mexican Street Corn Fritters are explosively flavorful—sweet, spicy, tangy, and crunchy all at once. Serve them with an icy margarita for the ultimate fiesta!

¡Provecho! 🌮🌶️

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