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 sweet corn, fresh or canned; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup cornmeal; 1/4 cup green onions, chopped; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon scotch bonnet pepper, minced (optional); 1 egg, beaten; 1/4 cup milk; Oil for frying

Highlighted under: Sweet Food

I am absolutely thrilled to share my recipe for Jamaican Sweet Corn Fritters! These delicious bites are a perfect blend of crispy texture on the outside and soft, sweet corniness on the inside. Whenever I make them, I’m reminded of the vibrant flavors of Jamaica. They're incredibly easy to whip up and can be enjoyed as appetizers or a tasty snack. Perfectly seasoned and paired with a luscious dipping sauce, these fritters bring a taste of the Caribbean to your kitchen. Let’s dive into creating this flavorful dish!

Created by

Octavia Bellamy

Last updated on 2026-01-06T14:49:34.821Z

When I first tasted Jamaican Sweet Corn Fritters during my visit to Jamaica, I was instantly hooked. The combination of sweet corn and spices created a delightful explosion of flavors in my mouth. I knew I had to recreate that experience at home. After some experimentation, I found that adding a hint of fresh herbs and a touch of heat from scotch bonnet pepper truly elevated the recipe.

One of my favorite tips for achieving the perfect fritter is ensuring that the corn is well-drained to prevent sogginess. I also recommend frying them in a medium-hot oil to get that perfect golden-brown color. Serve them with a zesty sauce for an irresistible treat!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Crispy on the outside with a soft, sweet corn center
Simple ingredients you might already have at home
A taste of the Caribbean that’s perfect for any occasion

      

The Texture of Perfection

Achieving the ideal texture in these Jamaican Sweet Corn Fritters is essential for a delightful eating experience. When frying, ensure the oil is hot enough (around 350°F) before adding the batter. This temperature allows the fritters to form a crispy shell while keeping the inside tender and moist. If the oil is too cool, the fritters will absorb excess oil and can become greasy.

As the fritters cook, look for the edges to turn golden brown, which typically takes about 3-4 minutes per side. This visual cue indicates that they are crispy on the outside while the center has cooked through. Overcrowding the pan can lower the oil temperature, so it’s best to fry them in batches to maintain that sought-after crunch.

Ingredient Insights

The choice of sweet corn is crucial for achieving maximum flavor in your fritters. Fresh sweet corn will yield a sweeter and more vibrant flavor profile compared to canned corn, so if it’s in season, opt for fresh. If you’re using canned corn, make sure to drain and rinse it well to remove excess sodium. The cornmeal adds an interesting texture and a slight nuttiness, balancing the sweetness of the corn.

Scotch bonnet pepper provides a traditional Caribbean spice kick. If you're worried about the heat, you can reduce the amount or substitute with a milder chili pepper. However, keep in mind that this pepper is a significant part of the Jamaican flavor profile, so adjust thoughtfully to retain the dish's authenticity.

Serving and Storing

These fritters are best served fresh and hot, straight from the skillet. They pair wonderfully with a variety of dipping sauces such as a spicy mayo, mango salsa, or even a tangy yogurt sauce. For a stunning presentation, consider garnishing them with finely chopped herbs or a drizzle of balsamic reduction.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a hot skillet for a few minutes on each side until they regain their crispiness, rather than using a microwave which can make them soggy. You can also freeze the cooled fritters in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to a month. Reheat them directly from the freezer in a hot oven for the best texture.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make these delicious fritters:

Ingredients

2 cups sweet corn, fresh or canned
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup cornmeal
1/4 cup green onions, chopped
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon scotch bonnet pepper, minced (optional)
1 egg, beaten
1/4 cup milk
Oil for frying

Make sure to prepare all your ingredients before starting!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create the fritters:

Prepare the Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the sweet corn, flour, cornmeal, green onions, baking powder, salt, black pepper, and scotch bonnet pepper. Mix well.

Add Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the beaten egg and milk. Pour this mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.

Heat the Oil

In a large skillet, heat oil over medium heat. You want enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan but not so much that the fritters will be deep-fried.

Fry the Fritters

Scoop tablespoons of the batter into the hot oil, flattening them slightly. Fry in batches for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.

Drain and Serve

Once cooked, transfer the fritters to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

Enjoy your Jamaican Sweet Corn Fritters fresh from the skillet!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, pair your fritters with a tangy mango salsa or a spicy dipping sauce. Always taste the batter before frying to adjust seasoning if necessary.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

When frying your fritters, keep an eye on the timing and your heat level. Begin with medium heat to get the oil warmed up but be prepared to adjust it as needed. If the fritters are browning too quickly, lower the heat slightly to avoid burnt outsides and raw centres. Conversely, if they are taking too long, increase the heat a notch to ensure they cook through in a timely manner.

Using a sturdy, non-stick skillet can make for easier flipping and less sticking, so consider that for optimal results. A slotted spatula is also helpful to lift and drain excess oil, keeping your fritters as light and crisp as possible.

Variations and Customizations

Feel free to experiment with additional ingredients to customize your fritters! Adding finely diced bell peppers or shredded carrots can enhance the flavor and add beautiful color. Alternatively, you might consider incorporating cheese, like grated cheddar, for an added richness.

For a healthy twist, substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or a gluten-free blend. This change may slightly alter the texture, but it can uplift the nutritional profile. Leave out the egg for a vegan variant, and replace it with a flaxseed workout or a commercial egg replacer.

Troubleshooting Tips

If you find your fritters falling apart while frying, ensure that your batter is mixed just enough to combine ingredients without overmixing. Overmixing introduces too much air and can prevent the fritters from holding together. Testing a small fritter first can help you gauge the right texture and adjust if needed.

In case you notice that your fritters are too oily after frying, this can often be attributed to the oil temperature not being high enough or overcrowding the pan. Make sure each fritter has enough space to fry properly, allowing steam to escape and achieving that desired crunch.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen corn works perfectly well! Just ensure it's thawed and drained before using.

→ How do I store leftover fritters?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven or skillet to maintain crispiness.

→ What can I serve with these fritters?

They’re great on their own, but you can serve them with salsa, guacamole, or a yogurt sauce for added flavor.

→ Can I make these fritters gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe gluten-free.