Jamaican Sweet Corn Fritters

Name: Jamaican Sweet Corn Fritters
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups fresh corn kernels; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions; 1/4 cup chopped bell pepper; 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup milk; 1 large egg, beaten; Vegetable oil for frying

Highlighted under: Cultural Recipes

I love making Jamaican Sweet Corn Fritters because they're a delightful mix of sweet and savory flavors that transport me straight to the Caribbean. Each bite is a burst of sweet corn, combined with spices and herbs that make my taste buds dance. They're perfect for snacking or serving at gatherings, and I can whip them up quickly with just a few simple ingredients. Once you try these crispy, golden fritters, you won't want to stop at just one!

Created by

Gillian Sykes

Last updated on 2026-01-06T12:29:34.480Z

When I first visited Jamaica, I fell in love with the vibrant flavors of the food, especially these sweet corn fritters. I learned that using fresh corn is essential for achieving the best taste and texture. The combination of corn and spices creates a unique flavor profile that is truly unforgettable.

While experimenting, I discovered that letting the batter rest briefly allows the flavors to meld beautifully. This small step makes a remarkable difference, enhancing the overall taste. Trust me; your guests will be asking for the recipe!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside
Sweet corn flavor with a hint of spice
Quick and easy to make for any occasion

The Role of Fresh Corn

Using fresh corn kernels in this recipe is key to achieving that sweet, juicy flavor characteristic of authentic Jamaican Sweet Corn Fritters. Fresh corn provides a burst of sweetness that frozen or canned alternatives can't mimic. When selecting corn, look for bright, plump kernels that are tightly wrapped in their husks. If fresh corn isn't available, consider using frozen corn, but thaw it completely and pat it dry to avoid excess moisture in the batter, which can lead to soggy fritters.

Another tip for maximizing corn flavor is to grill or roast the corn before adding it to the batter. This step intensifies the sweetness and adds a subtle smokiness that enhances the overall taste of the fritters. Simply cook the corn on a hot grill or under a broiler until it’s charred slightly, then let it cool before cutting off the kernels.

Perfecting the Fritter Technique

To achieve that perfect crispy texture, make sure your oil is hot enough before frying. Ideally, the oil temperature should be around 350°F (175°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, test the oil by dropping a small piece of batter into it; it should sizzle vigorously. Cooking at the right temperature ensures the fritters fry quickly, developing a golden-brown exterior while keeping the inside tender and moist. If the oil is too cool, your fritters will absorb excess oil and become greasy instead of crispy.

When dropping the batter into the oil, use a spoon or small ice cream scoop to maintain even sizes. This helps in achieving uniform cooking. Avoid overcrowding the skillet, as it lowers the oil temperature and results in unevenly cooked fritters. Fry in batches, leaving enough space for the fritters to expand as they cook.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for a delightful treat:

Ingredients

2 cups fresh corn kernels
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
1/4 cup chopped bell pepper
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup milk
1 large egg, beaten
Vegetable oil for frying

Prepare these ingredients before you start cooking!

Instructions

Let’s make these delicious fritters:

Prepare the Batter

In a large bowl, combine the fresh corn, flour, chopped green onions, bell pepper, cayenne pepper, baking powder, and salt. Stir well to mix. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk and beaten egg, then add to the corn mixture. Stir until just combined.

Heat the Oil

In a large skillet, heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil over medium heat until hot. To test if the oil is ready, drop a small amount of the batter in; it should sizzle upon contact.

Fry the Fritters

Using a spoon, drop small amounts of batter into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry until golden brown on one side, about 3-4 minutes, then flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.

Drain and Serve

Once cooked, remove the fritters and drain on paper towels. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.

Enjoy these delicious Jamaican Sweet Corn Fritters!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add chopped jalapeños to the batter. Fresh herbs, like cilantro or parsley, can also be incorporated for added flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Jamaican Sweet Corn Fritters are incredibly versatile. They make an excellent appetizer, paired with a zesty dipping sauce like mango chutney or a spicy aioli for an exciting flavor combination. You can also serve them alongside a light salad for a refreshing meal or enjoy them as a side dish with grilled meats. For an authentic touch, consider offering a sprinkle of fresh lime juice or a drizzle of hot sauce on top before serving.

For those looking to elevate the dish further, try stuffing the fritters with additional ingredients such as grated cheese or finely diced jalapeños, which add an extra layer of flavor. These variations keep the dish fresh and exciting, whether you’re serving them to guests or enjoying them for a weekend brunch.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you want to prepare ahead of time, the batter can be mixed and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours before frying. Just give it a quick stir before using, as it may thicken slightly after sitting. This is a great time saver for gatherings and ensures that you can serve fresh, hot fritters while spending less time in the kitchen.

Leftover fritters can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, which will help to maintain their crispiness. Alternatively, you can use an air fryer to get them crispy again. Just 2-3 minutes at 350°F will do the trick, making them almost as good as freshly fried.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen corn?

Yes, frozen corn can be used. Make sure to thaw and drain it well before mixing it into the batter.

→ How can I make these fritters gluten-free?

You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ Can I bake these instead of frying?

Yes, you can bake them in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover fritters in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.