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 sweet corn (fresh or canned); 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup cornmeal; 1/4 cup green onions, chopped; 1/4 cup bell pepper, diced; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional); 1/2 cup water; Oil for frying

Highlighted under: Inspired Cooking

I love making Jamaican Sweet Corn Fritters because they’re the perfect blend of crispiness and softness, bursting with the sweet taste of corn. Each bite is a delightful experience that reminds me of festive family gatherings and warm summer days. The golden exterior contrasts beautifully with the tender inside, making these fritters an irresistible treat. Whether served as a snack or a side dish, they always hold a special place on my table, and I find joy in sharing them with friends and family.

Created by

Willow Harries

Last updated on 2026-01-06T15:09:34.180Z

Making Jamaican Sweet Corn Fritters is a cherished tradition for me. I remember the first time I tasted them at a local market in Jamaica, and I was instantly hooked. The combination of sweet corn, spices, and a dash of heat creates a flavor profile that is simply unforgettable. I experimented with different herbs and spices until I found the perfect balance that captures the essence of Jamaican cuisine.

To ensure the fritters are light and crispy, I use a mix of cornmeal and flour. The cornstarch creates that desired crunch while still allowing the sweet corn kernels to shine. Don’t be afraid to fry them a little longer for extra crispiness – it’s worth it!

        Why You Will Love These Fritters
        Crispy texture with a tender, flavorful interior
Sweet bursts of corn balanced with savory spices
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for any occasion

      

The Perfect Balance of Texture

Achieving the right texture is key to making these fritters truly delightful. The mix of all-purpose flour and cornmeal creates a perfectly crisp exterior while the sweet corn inside keeps each bite tender and juicy. I recommend using a combination of both fresh and canned corn for depth of flavor. Fresh corn provides a burst of sweetness and a tender bite, while canned corn contributes to a more uniform texture, ensuring that you get the best of both worlds.

When frying the fritters, keep an eye on the oil temperature. If it's too hot, the outside will burn before the inside cooks through; too low and the fritters will absorb excess oil, resulting in a greasy finish. Aim for a temperature around 350°F (175°C). You can test the oil by dropping a small amount of batter into it; if it sizzles vigorously, it’s ready for frying.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Jamaican Sweet Corn Fritters are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. For a traditional touch, serve them with a side of spicy pepper sauce or a cooling sour cream dip. You can also pair them with a fresh salad for a light meal or alongside jerk chicken for a classic Caribbean feast. I love to sprinkle fresh cilantro or parsley over the fritters before serving to add a pop of color and freshness.

If you’re hosting, consider serving the fritters as an appetizer at your next gathering. They can easily be made in batches and kept warm in the oven at a low temperature while your guests arrive. Just remember to check on them frequently to avoid drying out, as they are best enjoyed fresh and warm!

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a delightful batch of Jamaican Sweet Corn Fritters.

Ingredients

2 cups sweet corn (fresh or canned)
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup cornmeal
1/4 cup green onions, chopped
1/4 cup bell pepper, diced
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
1/2 cup water
Oil for frying

With the ingredients prepared, you're ready to start frying!

Instructions

Let's dive into the steps to create these delicious fritters.

Prepare the Batter

In a large bowl, combine the sweet corn, flour, cornmeal, green onions, bell pepper, baking powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Mix well to incorporate all the ingredients.

Add Water

Gradually add the water to the dry mixture, stirring until a thick batter forms. You want it to hold its shape but still be pourable.

Heat the Oil

In a deep skillet or frying pan, heat about 1 inch of oil over medium heat until shimmering.

Fry the Fritters

Using a spoon or small scoop, carefully drop the batter into the hot oil. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.

Drain and Serve

Remove the fritters from the oil and drain them on paper towels. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

Enjoy your freshly made Jamaican Sweet Corn Fritters!

Pro Tips

For an added twist, try incorporating diced jalapeño or herbs like cilantro into the batter for an extra kick.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you want to create a gluten-free version of these fritters, feel free to substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. This adjustment will yield similar results while accommodating those with gluten sensitivities. Additionally, you can add shredded zucchini or grated carrots for extra flavor and nutrition, enhancing both the texture and sweetness of the fritters.

For a twist on flavor, consider incorporating spices such as cumin or smoked paprika into the batter. This will enhance the taste profile and give the fritters an exciting depth. You can also swap out green onions for finely chopped shallots or sweet onions, which will provide a milder, sweeter aroma.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you’re prepping for a gathering, you can make the batter a few hours in advance. Simply cover it tightly and refrigerate until you’re ready to fry. However, I recommend frying the fritters just before serving for the best texture; they'll lose their crispy exterior if made too far ahead. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheat in an oven to retain crispiness.

For longer storage, these fritters can be frozen. After frying, let them cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake them straight from the freezer at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-12 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?

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

→ How can I make these gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure your cornmeal is gluten-free.

→ What dipping sauces go well with these fritters?

They pair beautifully with sour cream, spicy mayo, or a tangy dipping sauce made from yogurt and lime.

→ Can I make the batter ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the batter a few hours in advance. Just store it covered in the refrigerator until you're ready to fry.