Jamaican Sweet Corn Fritters

Name: Jamaican Sweet Corn Fritters
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups fresh corn kernels; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup cornmeal; 1/4 cup chopped scallions; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 egg, beaten; 1/4 cup milk; Vegetable oil for frying

Highlighted under: Creative Baking Inspiration

I absolutely love making Jamaican Sweet Corn Fritters, especially during family get-togethers. The vibrant flavors and crispy texture make them a perfect appetizer or snack. Each fritter is bursting with sweet corn, herbs, and spices, which creates a wonderful mix of flavors. With a quick prep time and the ease of frying, this dish always leaves my friends and family asking for seconds. It’s a delightful way to introduce a taste of Jamaica to any gathering!

Created by

Bryony Wells

Last updated on 2026-01-06T12:02:36.038Z

When I first tried Jamaican Sweet Corn Fritters, I was hooked by their crispy outer layer and the sweet, savory burst of corn inside. I experimented with various spices and herbs to get the perfect balance, and I discovered that a hint of scallions and cumin really elevates the flavor profile. This light and fluffy fritter is perfect for dipping in a tangy sauce or enjoying on its own.

What I love most is how versatile they are. You can serve them as an appetizer, a party snack, or even a side during a meal. Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying; this ensures that they stay crispy and don't absorb too much oil. Trust me, once you try them, they will become a staple in your home!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
A delightful mix of sweet corn and spices
Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside
Quick to prepare for any occasion

The Importance of Fresh Corn

For the best flavor and texture in Jamaican Sweet Corn Fritters, using fresh corn kernels is key. Fresh corn not only enhances the sweetness of the fritters but also adds a delightful crunch. If fresh corn isn't available, frozen corn can be used as a substitute; just ensure it's thawed completely and well-drained to avoid excess moisture in the batter. I recommend cutting the kernels off from the cob right before preparation for maximum freshness.

When preparing your fritters, ensure the corn kernels are well distributed throughout the batter. This ensures that every bite delivers that burst of sweetness. If using canned corn, rinse and drain it thoroughly to extract any briny taste and pat it dry with paper towels. This way, the fritters remain crisp instead of soggy.

The Role of Seasoning

The combination of spices plays a pivotal role in enhancing the flavor profile of these fritters. Ground cumin adds a warm, earthy note that complements the sweetness of the corn beautifully. For an added twist, consider incorporating chili powder for a hint of heat or smoked paprika for a subtle smokiness. Remember to adjust the seasoning according to your preference; a pinch of cayenne can elevate the flavor if you enjoy a little spice.

Chopped scallions not only contribute a mild onion flavor but also add freshness to the fritters. Be sure to slice them thinly, which allows them to meld into the batter without overpowering the sweet corn. If you want to switch up the herbs, feel free to experiment with fresh parsley or cilantro, both of which can lend a bright touch to the overall dish.

Frying Tips for Perfect Texture

Getting the frying temperature just right is crucial for perfect Jamaican Sweet Corn Fritters. Ideally, the oil should be heated to around 350°F (175°C). You can test the temperature by dropping a small amount of batter into the oil—if it sizzles and floats to the top, the oil is ready. Frying in batches helps maintain the oil temperature, ensuring the fritters turn crisp without absorbing too much oil.

When frying, avoid the temptation to overcrowd the pan. This can lower the oil temperature, leading to unevenly cooked fritters that are greasy rather than golden and crisp. A good rule of thumb is to fry only 3-4 fritters at a time, depending on the size of your skillet. Once they've achieved a golden brown color, use a slotted spoon to remove them; this allows excess oil to drip off before they hit the paper towels.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create your delicious fritters:

Ingredients

2 cups fresh corn kernels
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup cornmeal
1/4 cup chopped scallions
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 egg, beaten
1/4 cup milk
Vegetable oil for frying

Mix these ingredients well to ensure a great combination of flavors!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your fritters:

Prepare the batter

In a large bowl, combine corn kernels, flour, cornmeal, scallions, baking powder, cumin, and salt. Mix well to incorporate all the dry ingredients. In a separate bowl, whisk together the beaten egg and milk. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.

Heat the oil

In a deep skillet, heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil over medium heat. Make sure the oil is hot enough for frying.

Fry the fritters

Using a tablespoon, drop portions of the batter into the hot oil. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown. Avoid overcrowding the pan.

Drain and serve

Once cooked, remove the fritters and drain them on paper towels. Serve warm, preferably with a spicy dipping sauce.

Enjoy your homemade Jamaican Sweet Corn Fritters!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add some diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the batter. Also, make sure to serve these hot for the best experience.

Storage and Reheating

Jamaican Sweet Corn Fritters are best enjoyed fresh and warm, but if you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep them crispy, it's advised to reheat them in a skillet over medium heat rather than in the microwave. This way, the fritters can regain their crunch and warmth without becoming rubbery.

If you want to prepare these fritters ahead of time, you can make the batter and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. However, I recommend frying them immediately after mixing for the best texture. Additionally, these fritters can be frozen; lay them flat on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They will keep well for up to 3 months.

Serving Suggestions

For serving, consider pairing your Jamaican Sweet Corn Fritters with a spicy dipping sauce, such as a hot pepper sauce or a zesty mango salsa. The sharpness and flavor of the sauce contrast beautifully with the sweetness of the fritters, creating a wonderful balance. Additionally, a simple yogurt or sour cream dip works well for a cooling contrast.

These fritters can also make a delightful addition to a larger spread. Serve them as part of a tasting platter alongside other Jamaican favorites like jerk chicken or ackee and saltfish. They work wonderfully as a side for barbecues or even as finger food at parties. Their versatility means they can be dressed up or down depending on your occasion.

Variations to Try

Get creative with your Jamaican Sweet Corn Fritters by adding other vegetables like finely grated zucchini or bell peppers. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds nutritional value. If you're looking for a fusion twist, try incorporating cheese such as feta or cheddar into the batter for a richer taste experience.

For those looking for a gluten-free alternative, substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend can work well. Just be mindful that different mixes may vary in absorbency, so it may take a bit of trial and error to achieve the ideal consistency. Whatever variation you choose, these fritters are endlessly adaptable!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh corn?

Absolutely! Frozen corn works well; just make sure to thaw and drain it before use.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for best results!

→ Can I bake these instead of frying?

Yes, you can bake them at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.

→ What can I serve with these fritters?

These fritters pair wonderfully with a spicy dipping sauce, yogurt, or even a simple salad!