Spicy Mexican Corn Bites (Printable Version)

Golden corn nibbles with cheese, chili, and lime pump up any hangout or snack time with lively flavors.

# What You'll Need:

→ Corn Bites

01 - Salt and black pepper (just add how much you like)
02 - 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
03 - 0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika
04 - 1 teaspoon chili powder
05 - 45 g regular flour
06 - 1 big egg
07 - 2 tablespoons jalapeños, chopped up (go for fresh or ones in a jar)
08 - 15 g cilantro, cut up small and fresh
09 - 60 g shredded cheddar
10 - 65 g crumbled cotija (or swap for feta if you can't find it)
11 - 300 g corn—choose fresh or grab the frozen kind and thaw them

→ For Frying

12 - Vegetable oil—enough for deep frying

→ For Garnish

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

# Steps to Follow:

01 - Once the corn bites are golden and drained, toss them on a plate. Sprinkle chopped cilantro over them, dust with chili powder or some Tajín, and set lime wedges nearby. Dig in while they're hot.
02 - Carefully drop the shaped corn bites into the heated oil in batches. Flip after 2–3 minutes, fry until they look crispy and evenly golden, then scoop out with a slotted spoon. Let them rest on paper towels.
03 - Pour about 2.5 cm worth of vegetable oil into a deep frying pan. Set it over medium heat and let it get hot—if you drop in a little batter, it should instantly sizzle.
04 - Take a chunky tablespoon of the blended mix, roll or press it into a tight ball or patty, and lay each one on a plate or tray that’s lined up for you.
05 - Toss your corn, cheeses, cilantro, jalapeños, egg, flour, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and season it with some salt and pepper into a big bowl. Stir it around until you've got a thick, blended mixture.

# Additional Notes:

01 - Cut back on oil? Try baking them at 200°C for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway—air fry at 190°C for 10–12 minutes for a crispier bite.
02 - Serve these with some spicy mayo, cool guacamole, or a heavy dollop of sour cream on the side.
03 - Want some crunch? Stir diced red pepper or chopped green onions into the mix before shaping.