Spicy Mexican Corn Bites
Introduction
Spicy Mexican Corn Bites are the perfect snack for any occasion! These tasty little bites are bursting with flavor, and they’re easy to whip up in no time. Whether you’re hosting a game night or just craving something delicious, these bites will surely be a hit!
Why Make This Recipe
You should try this recipe because it’s simple and quick to make, plus it’s packed with flavor. Everyone loves snacks, and these Spicy Mexican Corn Bites are no exception! They are cheesy, crispy, and a little spicy—just the way we like them! You can also customize them to your liking, which makes them fun to prepare with family and friends.
How to Make Spicy Mexican Corn Bites
Making Spicy Mexican Corn Bites is easy! Just follow these simple steps and you’ll have a tasty treat ready to enjoy.
Ingredients
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned; if frozen, thaw first)
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (or your favorite melting cheese)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon sour cream
- 1 jalapeño, finely diced (optional, for heat)
- 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs)
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Fresh lime wedges, for serving
- Chopped cilantro, for serving
- Hot sauce or creamy chipotle dipping sauce (optional)
Directions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the corn kernels, Monterey Jack cheese, Parmesan cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, diced jalapeño (if using), chili powder, cumin, salt, black pepper, and cilantro. Mix until well combined.
- Take spoonfuls of the mixture and shape them into small balls or patties (1–2 inches). Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Prepare breading stations with flour, beaten eggs, and panko breadcrumbs mixed with paprika and garlic powder.
- Dredge each corn bite in flour, dip in beaten eggs, then coat with panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
- In a skillet, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry bites in batches until golden and crispy, about 2–3 minutes per side. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.
- Arrange on a platter, garnish with cilantro, serve with lime wedges, and offer hot sauce or dipping sauce if desired.
How to Serve Spicy Mexican Corn Bites
Serve these delicious bites warm on a platter. You can garnish them with fresh cilantro and lime wedges. They’re perfect for dipping in hot sauce or creamy chipotle sauce!
How to Store Spicy Mexican Corn Bites
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They can stay fresh for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them back in the oven or air fryer to regain their crispiness.
Tips to Make Spicy Mexican Corn Bites
- Ensure your oil is hot enough before frying to avoid soggy bites.
- Feel free to adjust the spice level by adding more or less jalapeño and chili powder to suit your taste.
- For a healthier option, you can bake these bites instead of frying them. Simply place them on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes.
Variation
You can add other ingredients like cooked bacon bits or different types of cheese to change up the flavor. Try adding some chopped bell peppers for extra crunch!
FAQs
1. Can I make these in advance? Yes! You can prepare the mixture ahead of time and shape it into balls. Store them in the fridge until you are ready to fry them.
2. Can I freeze these bites? Absolutely! You can freeze the uncooked bites. Just place them on a tray in the freezer, and once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag. Fry them directly from frozen!
3. What can I serve with these bites? They pair wonderfully with fresh lime wedges, avocado dip, or your favorite salsa for a refreshing dip!
