Jamaican Sweet Corn Fritters

Name: Jamaican Sweet Corn Fritters
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups fresh corn kernels (or canned); 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup cornmeal; 1/4 cup chopped green onions; 1/4 cup red bell pepper, diced; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; 1/4 teaspoon salt; Pinch of black pepper; Oil for frying

Highlighted under: Sweet Planning

I absolutely love making Jamaican Sweet Corn Fritters! They are incredibly easy to whip up and burst with vibrant flavor in every bite. The sweetness of the corn, combined with the right spices, creates a delicious treat that’s perfect for snacking or as a side. I often serve them with a spicy dipping sauce that complements the fritters perfectly. Whether I'm entertaining guests or simply enjoying a quiet meal at home, these fritters never fail to impress and satisfy my cravings for something crispy and savory.

Created by

Blythe Rowland

Last updated on 2026-01-06T13:10:35.280Z

Every time I prepare these Jamaican Sweet Corn Fritters, it takes me back to the sunny beaches of Jamaica. I remember the first time I tried them at a local food festival, where the golden-brown fritters were served fresh and hot. I quickly learned that the key to their irresistible flavor is fresh corn and the right blend of spices. The crunch from frying gives a satisfying texture, and while they’re quick to make, they always taste gourmet.

One tip I discovered is to let the batter rest for about 10 minutes before frying. This allows the ingredients to meld beautifully and produces light and fluffy fritters. Making these at home has become a cherished ritual, and I can’t wait for you to try this simple yet delightful recipe.

Why You'll Love These Fritters
Sweet and savory flavor that delights your taste buds
Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside
Versatile appetizer perfect for any occasion

Understanding the Ingredients

The core of Jamaican Sweet Corn Fritters is, of course, the corn. Fresh corn kernels offer the best sweetness and crunch, but if you're using canned corn, make sure to drain it thoroughly to avoid excess moisture, which can affect the batter's consistency. The combination of all-purpose flour and cornmeal not only gives the fritters a lovely texture but also enhances the corn flavor, resulting in a fritter that’s crispy outside but tender within.

Green onions and diced red bell pepper are essential for adding freshness and a hint of sweetness. I recommend chopping them finely, as smaller pieces distribute more evenly in the batter, allowing for a more balanced flavor profile in each bite. Moreover, feel free to experiment with other add-ins like finely chopped jalapeños for an extra kick or other vegetables like zucchini for added nutrition.

Frying Techniques for Perfect Fritters

Getting the frying oil temperature just right is crucial for the best results. If the oil is not hot enough, the fritters will absorb too much oil and become greasy; if it's too hot, they'll burn on the outside while remaining uncooked on the inside. Ideally, maintain the oil at a medium heat (around 350°F or 180°C). You can test the temperature by dropping a small amount of batter into the oil; it should sizzle immediately if ready.

When frying, remember not to overcrowd the pan. This can lower the oil temperature, resulting in uneven cooking. I usually fry just four to five fritters at a time, flipping them halfway through. They should take about 3-4 minutes to become golden brown on each side. Keeping a close eye on them will ensure the perfect color and texture every time.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients before starting to make the process smoother!

Ingredients for Jamaican Sweet Corn Fritters

2 cups fresh corn kernels (or canned)
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup cornmeal
1/4 cup chopped green onions
1/4 cup red bell pepper, diced
1 large egg
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon salt
Pinch of black pepper
Oil for frying

Once you have all your ingredients, you're ready to start making these delicious fritters!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your yummy Jamaican Sweet Corn Fritters.

Prepare the Batter

In a large bowl, combine the corn, flour, cornmeal, green onions, red bell pepper, egg, baking powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly coated.

Heat the Oil

In a large skillet, heat about 1/2 inch of oil over medium heat. To check if the oil is hot, drop a small amount of batter in – it should sizzle.

Fry the Fritters

Spoon tablespoon-sized portions of the batter into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown, then flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes.

Drain and Serve

Once cooked, remove the fritters and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.

Enjoy these delicious fritters fresh for the best taste!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding chopped jalapeños or herbs such as cilantro to the batter for added flavor.

Storing and Reheating Fritters

If you have leftover fritters, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. When you're ready to enjoy them again, the best way to reheat is in a skillet over medium heat. This method helps to restore their crispiness, unlike the microwave, which can make them soggy. Heat them for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until divine and crispy again.

For longer storage, you can freeze the fritters. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. They can be kept frozen for up to a month. To reheat, simply pop them into a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crisp.

Variations to Try

While this recipe is a staple, feel free to experiment with the ingredients! For a twist on flavor, try adding spices like cumin or a dash of cayenne pepper to the batter. You can also incorporate shredded cheese for a cheesy version of these fritters, which pairs deliciously with the sweetness of the corn.

Another idea is to substitute fresh herbs like cilantro or thyme instead of green onions for a fresh, aromatic kick. This adds another layer of flavor and can enhance the overall eating experience. You can even change the dipping sauce to match your variations; a mango salsa or a zesty lime crema could be delightful!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned corn instead of fresh?

Yes, canned corn works perfectly fine! Just make sure to drain it well before use.

→ How can I store leftover fritters?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them briefly in an oven or skillet to keep them crispy.

→ Can I make the batter ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the batter and refrigerate it for up to 1 hour before frying. Just give it a quick stir before using.

→ What dipping sauce goes well with these fritters?

A spicy mayo or a tangy dipping sauce made with yogurt, lime, and spices pairs wonderfully with these fritters.