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Spicy Mexican Corn Bites

Spicy Mexican Corn Bites
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Spicy Mexican Corn Bites are a crunchy, flavorful snack that combines smoky chili heat with sweet fresh corn and creamy Mexican crema or mayonnaise. Crispy on the outside and tender inside, they make a perfect appetizer or party treat with bold Mexican spices and a zesty lime finish.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 ½ cups fresh corn kernels
  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise or Mexican crema
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1–2 tablespoons chopped jalapeños or hot sauce (adjust to taste)
  • ¼ cup crumbled cotija cheese
  • ½ cup crushed tortilla chips or cornmeal for coating
  • Oil for frying (vegetable, canola, or similar), about ¼ cup for shallow frying

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Corn Mixture: Cook the fresh corn kernels briefly in a hot skillet until slightly charred and tender, about 3-5 minutes. Let cool. In a large bowl, mix the corn with mayonnaise or crema, chili powder, lime juice, chopped cilantro, jalapeños or hot sauce, and crumbled cotija cheese.
  2. Forming the Bites: Add crushed tortilla chips or cornmeal to the corn mixture and stir until combined and able to hold shape. Using your hands or a small spoon, shape the mixture into small bite-sized rounds or nuggets.
  3. Cooking for Crunch: Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the bites 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. Alternatively, for a lighter option, bake them on a parchment-lined tray at 400°F (200°C) for 15 minutes, turning halfway through.
  4. Final Touches: Remove the bites from heat and drain on paper towels to absorb excess oil. Sprinkle additional crumbled cotija cheese and a squeeze of fresh lime juice over the bites before serving.

Notes

  • Use fresh corn kernels for the best texture and sweetness.
  • Don’t skip the lime juice as it balances the richness with acidity.
  • Adjust the heat level by varying the amount of jalapeños or chili powder.
  • Chop cilantro finely to evenly distribute flavor without overpowering the bites.
  • Pre-toast and crush your own tortilla chips for extra crunch and freshness.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container with a paper towel to maintain crispness.
  • Reheat leftovers in oven or air fryer to restore crunch.

Nutrition

Keywords: Spicy Mexican Corn Bites, Mexican snack, corn bites, appetizer, spicy snack, gluten free snack

Find it online: https://mealsbylina.com/spicy-mexican-corn-bites/