Jamaican Corn Fritters

Name: Jamaican Corn Fritters
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups of corn kernels (fresh or canned); 1 cup all-purpose flour; 2 tablespoons cornmeal; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 cup green onions, chopped; 1 small jalapeño, finely chopped (optional for heat); 1/2 cup milk; 1 large egg; Vegetable oil for frying

Highlighted under: International Planning

I absolutely love making Jamaican Corn Fritters because they bring a taste of the Caribbean right into my kitchen. The blend of sweet corn with spices and crispy edges is simply irresistible. Each bite feels like a party! These fritters are incredibly versatile, perfect as a snack, appetizer, or even a side dish. I've tried several methods, but what truly makes them special is the balance of seasoning and cooking time, which elevates the flavors to a whole new level.

Created by

Fern Holloway

Last updated on 2026-01-12T08:16:38.988Z

Creating these Jamaican Corn Fritters has become my go-to recipe for gatherings. I love experimenting with different types of corn — using fresh, grilled corn adds an extra layer of flavor that you simply can't get from canned. The secret lies in letting the batter rest briefly, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully before frying.

One tip that I swear by is to test the oil temperature before frying; a piece of batter should sizzle immediately. This ensures the fritters cook evenly and develop a golden, crispy exterior while remaining tender inside. Trust me, it makes all the difference!

Why You'll Love These Fritters
Sweet corn flavor with a hint of spice
Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside
Perfect for dipping in your favorite sauce

The Magic of Corn in Fritters

Corn is not just the main ingredient of these fritters; it adds a naturally sweet flavor and juicy texture that elevates each bite. When using fresh corn, look for ears that are plump and firm, and for the best results, use them immediately after shucking. If opting for canned corn, ensure it’s well-drained to avoid a soggy batter. The sweetness of the corn pairs beautifully with spices, creating a delightful contrast that keeps you coming back for more.

To achieve the ideal fritter consistency, the balance between corn and flour is crucial. Too much flour can lead to dense, chewy fritters, while too little may cause them to fall apart. A good rule of thumb is to aim for a batter that holds its shape when scooped but remains slightly pourable. If your batter feels too thick, add a splash more milk; if too runny, a bit more flour can rectify it.

Perfecting Your Frying Technique

The frying process can make or break your fritters, so achieving the right oil temperature is essential. Heat your oil to about 350°F (175°C); too cool and the fritters will absorb oil and become greasy, too hot and they’ll burn before cooking through. To test the oil, drop in a small amount of batter; if it sizzles immediately but doesn’t brown too quickly, you’re good to go. Watch for golden edges during frying, as that’s your cue for a perfect fry.

Always fry in batches to ensure even cooking and avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lower the oil temperature. Maintain the frying temperature by monitoring the heat, adjusting as necessary. A deep-frying thermometer can be invaluable here, ensuring you consistently hit that sweet spot for crispiness. The whole frying process should take about 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through for an even golden finish.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for your Jamaican Corn Fritters:

Ingredients

2 cups of corn kernels (fresh or canned)
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons cornmeal
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 cup green onions, chopped
1 small jalapeño, finely chopped (optional for heat)
1/2 cup milk
1 large egg
Vegetable oil for frying

Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your delicious fritters:

Prepare the Batter

In a mixing bowl, combine the corn, flour, cornmeal, baking powder, salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Stir until well mixed.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk and egg. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Fold in the green onions and jalapeño if using.

Heat Oil and Fry

In a large skillet, heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil over medium heat. Once hot, scoop tablespoons of batter into the oil, pressing gently to flatten them. Fry until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.

Drain and Serve

Remove the 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 Corn Fritters!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like cilantro or thyme to the batter. If you want a crispy texture, allow the batter to sit for a few minutes before frying.

Storage and Reheating

These Jamaican Corn Fritters make an excellent make-ahead snack. If you have leftovers, let them cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be stored for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat them in an air fryer or a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until they regain their crispiness. Microwaving will make them soft, which is why I recommend avoiding that method when reheating.

For longer storage, consider freezing the fritters. Let them cool fully, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to three months. When ready to eat, cook straight from frozen in an air fryer or oven, adjusting the cooking time slightly longer to ensure they heat through.

Customizing Your Fritters

Feel free to customize your fritters based on what you have on hand or your taste preferences. Adding ingredients like diced bell peppers, grated zucchini, or even cooked bacon can create a unique flavor profile. For a vegetarian version, try adding a bit of shredded cheese for richness—just keep an eye on your batter consistency, as cheese can add moisture.

For those looking to spice things up, using different types of peppers or adding a splash of hot sauce to the batter will give a kick. Moreover, if you're looking to make this dish gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend commonly used for baking, ensuring the proportions remain similar. Each variation adds a delicious twist while staying true to the Caribbean flair!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen corn for this recipe?

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

→ How do I store leftover fritters?

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

→ Can I make these fritters spicy?

Absolutely! Add more jalapeño or even a dash of cayenne pepper for added heat.

→ What sauces pair well with corn fritters?

These fritters are delicious with sour cream, salsa, or a creamy avocado dip.