Jamaican Sweet Corn Fritters

Name: Jamaican Sweet Corn Fritters
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 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 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional); 1/4 cup green onions, chopped; 1/2 cup milk; 1 large egg; Vegetable oil, for frying

Highlighted under: Family Comfort Food Collection

When I first tried Jamaican Sweet Corn Fritters during a trip to Jamaica, I was captivated by their irresistible sweetness and crispy texture. They make a delightful snack or appetizer that pairs beautifully with a variety of dipping sauces. I love how easy they are to prepare, using simple pantry staples yet offering vibrant flavors. Whether served at a gathering or as a treat for myself, these fritters always bring a taste of the Caribbean into my kitchen.

Created by

Nola Patterson

Last updated on 2026-01-06T16:53:34.227Z

Trying out various Caribbean recipes led me to the delightful world of Jamaican cuisine, where I discovered the sweet corn fritters that truly blew my mind. I made sure to use fresh corn from the cob, which added a wonderful burst of sweetness. One tip I learned is to let the batter rest a little before frying; this ensures a fluffier texture within the fritters and makes a huge difference in the final product.

I also experimented with different spices in my batter to give the fritters a unique twist. Adding a hint of cumin and a dash of cayenne pepper gives these snacks an extra layer of flavor without overpowering the sweetness of the corn. It's all about striking a balance!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Crispy on the outside, soft and sweet on the inside
Quick to whip up, perfect for unexpected guests
Can be customized with spices or herbs to suit your taste

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The star of these Jamaican Sweet Corn Fritters is undoubtedly the fresh corn. It provides natural sweetness and moisture, contributing to the fritters' delightful texture. Ideally, use corn that is at its peak ripeness for the best flavor. If fresh corn isn’t available, you can substitute with high-quality frozen corn. Just ensure that you thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture which can affect the batter consistency.

All-purpose flour and cornmeal combine to create a nice balance of texture in the fritters. The flour provides structure, while the cornmeal adds a pleasant crunch to the exterior. Baking powder is essential for leavening, helping the fritters puff slightly, resulting in a lighter inside. Be cautious with the amount of cayenne pepper you add; it adds a gentle kick, but if you're serving these to children or those sensitive to spice, you might want to omit it.

Perfecting the Fry

Frying the fritters requires careful temperature control. The oil should reach approximately 350°F (175°C) for ideal frying. If the temperature is too low, the fritters will absorb more oil and become greasy. Conversely, too high of a heat can lead to a burnt exterior while leaving the inside undercooked. To test, drop a small spoonful of batter into the oil; it should sizzle and rise to the surface within seconds.

When frying, it's crucial to avoid overcrowding the skillet, as this can drop the oil temperature quickly and prevent even cooking. Fry in batches if necessary, ensuring that there’s enough space for the fritters to bubble without sticking together. Once they're golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side, remove them promptly and drain on paper towels to maintain their crispy texture.

Ingredients

For the Fritters

2 cups fresh corn kernels
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup cornmeal
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
1/4 cup green onions, chopped
1/2 cup milk
1 large egg
Vegetable oil, for frying

Mix all the ingredients together until combined.

Instructions

Prepare the Batter

In a large bowl, combine the fresh corn, flour, cornmeal, baking powder, salt, and spices. In another bowl, whisk together the milk and egg until well blended. Stir the wet ingredients into the dry mixture until just combined. Let it rest for about 10 minutes.

Fry the Fritters

Heat about an inch of vegetable oil in a deep skillet over medium heat. Once hot, drop spoonfuls of the batter into the oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

Serve

Serve the fritters warm with your choice of dipping sauce, such as a sweet chili sauce or a zesty mango salsa.

Enjoy your Caribbean-inspired dish!

Pro Tips

Consider adding fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for a vibrant touch. Pair the fritters with a refreshing lime wedge for added zest.

Serving Suggestions

Serving these fritters warm elevates their flavor and texture, making them a delightful addition to dinners, parties, or casual snacking. Pair them with a sweet chili sauce for a delightful contrast of flavors or try a zesty mango salsa that brightens up the dish. For a Caribbean twist, consider serving them with a coconut dipping sauce, which can be made by mixing coconut milk with a pinch of lime juice and seasoning.

These fritters not only serve well as an appetizer but can also be enjoyed as a side dish. They can be paired with grilled meats or served alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal. If you’re feeling inventive, try stacking several fritters with avocado and salsa for a tasty taco-style treat.

Storing and Reheating

Leftover fritters can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to three days. To maintain their crispiness, consider refrigerating and reheating them in an air fryer or on a skillet instead of the microwave. A quick 5 minutes in a preheated air fryer at 370°F (190°C) can restore their crunchy texture beautifully.

For meal prep, feel free to prepare the batter in advance and store it covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just give it a good stir before frying to re-integrate any settled ingredients. Alternatively, you can even freeze uncooked fritters. Flash-freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag. They can be fried straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cook time.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen corn works well! Just make sure to thaw and drain it before using.

→ How do I store leftover fritters?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best results.

→ Can I make these fritters gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ What dips pair best with Jamaican Sweet Corn Fritters?

Sweet chili sauce, avocado dip, or a homemade mango salsa complement these fritters beautifully.