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: 1 cup sweet corn (fresh or canned); 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup green onions, chopped; 2 eggs, beaten; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional); Oil for frying

Highlighted under: International World Food Recipes

I absolutely adore making Jamaican Sweet Corn Fritters! They are a delightful treat that bring a taste of the Caribbean into my kitchen. With the sweet bursts of corn and the savory spices melding together, these fritters are perfect as an appetizer or a snack. The best part is how quickly they come together, making them ideal for a last-minute gathering. I love serving them warm with a zesty dipping sauce to enhance their flavors!

Created by

Charlotte Wilson

Last updated on 2026-01-06T13:49:35.071Z

When I first tried Jamaican Sweet Corn Fritters at a local Caribbean festival, I was instantly captivated. The way the corn mingled with the spices created an explosion of flavors that dances on your palate. I couldn’t resist the urge to recreate that experience in my own kitchen!

In my quest for the perfect fritter, I discovered that adding a small amount of flour creates a light batter that crisps beautifully when fried. I also love using fresh herbs like cilantro to elevate the flavor even further, making each bite a celebration of vibrant ingredients.

        Why You'll Love These Fritters
        Bursting with sweet corn and savory spices
Crispy on the outside, soft inside
Perfect for parties or as a snack

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The key ingredient in Jamaican Sweet Corn Fritters is, of course, the sweet corn. Whether using fresh corn or canned, ensure that your corn is sweet and tender. Fresh corn can be cut directly off the cob for a crunchier texture, while canned corn provides convenience. If substituting, consider using frozen corn, which retains moisture well after thawing. Each source of corn will provide a slightly different sweetness and texture, so choose based on your preference for crunch and flavor intensity.

All-purpose flour serves as the binding agent in this fritter recipe, giving it structure. You could substitute with gluten-free flour blends if you prefer a gluten-free option, but be aware that texture might vary slightly. Adding cornstarch to your alternative blend may help achieve a crispier exterior. Also, the baking powder is crucial for lightness, aiding in puffing up the fritters during frying. Always check the expiration date of your baking powder for optimal results.

Cooking Technique Tips

When frying, maintain the oil temperature between 350°F to 375°F. A thermometer is useful here; if you don’t have one, the drop method can help: a small amount of batter should sizzle vigorously upon contact with the oil. If the oil isn’t hot enough, the fritters will absorb excess oil and become soggy instead of crispy. In contrast, if the oil is too hot, the outside will brown quickly while the inside may remain undercooked. Adjust heat as necessary during frying to maintain a steady temperature.

Frying in batches is recommended; overcrowding the pan can lower the oil temperature drastically, ruining the desired crispiness. I suggest frying 3-4 fritters at a time, allowing sufficient space for them to float without touching. Fry for about 3-4 minutes each side or until golden brown, which gives you a good visual cue for doneness. Use a slotted spoon to remove them, letting excess oil drain while ensuring they remain warm and crispy.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make your fritters!

For the Fritters

1 cup sweet corn (fresh or canned)
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup green onions, chopped
2 eggs, beaten
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Oil for frying

Mix all ingredients well, ensuring the corn is evenly distributed.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these steps to create delicious fritters!

Prepare the Batter

In a mixing bowl, combine sweet corn, flour, green onions, beaten eggs, baking powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Stir until well mixed.

Heat the Oil

In a large skillet, heat about 1 inch of oil over medium heat. Ensure the oil is hot enough by dropping a small amount of batter; it should sizzle immediately.

Fry the Fritters

Using a spoon, drop tablespoons of the batter into the hot oil. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown. Do not overcrowd the pan.

Drain and Serve

Remove fritters from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.

Enjoy your homemade Jamaican Sweet Corn Fritters hot and crispy!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, add some finely chopped bell peppers or herbs to the batter before frying.

Serving Suggestions

These fritters shine when served warm, enhancing their texture and flavor. Pair them with a zesty dipping sauce; a blend of sour cream, lime juice, and chopped cilantro creates a fantastic contrast to the sweetness of the corn. Additionally, a spicy mango salsa can electrify these fritters, complementing their savory notes with fresh fruitiness.

To elevate your serving experience, consider creating a fritter platter. Include a variety of dipping sauces, such as a garlic aioli, sweet chili sauce, or a spicy Sriracha mixed with yogurt. This creates a fun, interactive way for guests to enjoy the fritters, allowing them to try different combinations with each bite.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. However, for longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. When it comes to reheating, aim for the oven rather than the microwave to maintain texture—preheat your oven to 375°F and reheat the fritters for about 10 minutes until they regain their crispiness.

For freezing, place the cooled fritters in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Properly stored, they can last for up to three months. Thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating. This method allows for great flavor and texture even after freezing.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen corn?

Yes, frozen corn works well. Just make sure it's thawed and drained before using.

→ How can I make these fritters gluten-free?

Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.

→ What dipping sauces pair well with these fritters?

They go great with a tangy sour cream dip or a spicy chili sauce.

→ Can I make the batter ahead of time?

It's best to use the batter fresh, but you can prepare the ingredients and mix them just before frying for convenience.