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Corn and Cotija Cheese Fritters Recipe

Corn and Cotija Cheese Fritters Recipe


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4.7 from 16 reviews

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Crispy corn and cotija cheese fritters burst with Mexican street-style flavor, blending sweet corn kernels and salty cheese into golden-brown perfection. Crunchy outside and tender inside, these fritters deliver a delightful taste experience you’ll crave again and again.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 1/4 cups corn (about 23 ears)
  • 4 ounces (113 grams) cotija cheese (or feta, crumbled)
  • 3/4 cup flour (gluten-free for gluten-free)
  • 1/3 cup milk

Vegetables and Herbs:

  • 1 jalapeno (seeded and finely diced)
  • 2 green onions (finely sliced)
  • 2 tablespoons cilantro (chopped)
  • 1/2 teaspoon lime zest

Seasonings and Liquids:

  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise (or sour cream)
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon pepper
  • Canola oil for frying

Dipping Sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons sour cream
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Chili powder to taste

Instructions

  1. Blend fresh corn kernels with finely chopped jalapeño, green onions, cilantro, zesty lime zest, and tangy lime juice in a mixing bowl.
  2. Whisk together smooth flour, leavening agent, warm chili powder, smoky paprika, salt, and black pepper in a separate container.
  3. Gently incorporate the vibrant corn mixture into the dry ingredients, creating a cohesive batter with a light, airy texture.
  4. Delicately fold crumbled cotija cheese into the batter, ensuring even distribution of the salty, crumbly cheese.
  5. Warm canola oil in a skillet over medium heat (approximately 350°F) until shimmering and ready for frying.
  6. Carefully drop spoonfuls of batter into the hot oil, creating golden-edged fritters that crisp to a delicate bronze in 2-3 minutes per side.
  7. Transfer the fritters to paper towels, allowing excess oil to drain and maintaining their crisp exterior.
  8. Craft a creamy dipping sauce by whisking together rich mayonnaise, smooth sour cream, bright lime juice, and a sprinkle of chili powder.
  9. Plate the fritters and serve immediately with the zesty sauce, garnishing with extra cilantro if desired.

Notes

  • Adjust spiciness by removing jalapeno seeds for milder flavor or adding extra for heat lovers.
  • Ensure corn is fresh or well-drained to prevent soggy fritters that won’t crisp properly.
  • Use gluten-free flour blend for a celiac-friendly version without compromising texture.
  • Control oil temperature around 350°F to achieve perfectly crispy exterior without burning.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer, Snacks
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 265 kcal
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 390 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 17 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 8 g
  • Cholesterol: 30 mg