Mexican Street Corn Croquettes

Mexican Street Corn Croquettes are a flavorful and crispy twist on traditional Mexican street corn, also known as Elote. These bite-sized treats combine the sweet, juicy flavors of corn with creamy mayonnaise and the tangy richness of cotija cheese. The crispy exterior contrasts beautifully with the savory and cheesy filling, while a sprinkle of chili powder adds a touch of heat. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, these croquettes are a great way to bring the authentic flavors of Mexico to your table in a fun and easy-to-eat format.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Crispy and Delicious

The golden, crispy exterior of these croquettes pairs perfectly with the creamy and cheesy interior, creating a satisfying crunch in every bite.

2. Packed with Flavor

With ingredients like cotija cheese, cilantro, and chili powder, these croquettes are bursting with bold, Mexican-inspired flavors that everyone will love.

3. Great for Any Occasion

Serve them as an appetizer, snack, or even a side dish to your favorite Mexican meals like tacos or burritos.

4. Easy to Make

Despite their gourmet taste, these croquettes are simple to make with just a few ingredients, and you can easily prepare them in under 30 minutes.

5. Vegetarian-Friendly

These croquettes are a delicious vegetarian option that even meat lovers will enjoy, thanks to the hearty combination of corn, cheese, and spices.

Ingredients

• Corn kernels
• Mayonnaise
• Cotija cheese
• Chopped cilantro
• Chopped green onions
• Chili powder
• Cayenne pepper
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Breadcrumbs
• Eggs
• Vegetable oil for frying

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add more cayenne pepper or jalapeños for an extra heat boost.
• Herb Swap: Substitute cilantro with parsley or green onions for a different flavor profile.
• Cheese Options: Try using feta cheese or parmesan for a slightly different texture and flavor.
• Corn Type: Use fresh or frozen corn, or even canned corn if that’s what you have available.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Corn Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine corn, mayonnaise, cotija cheese, chopped cilantro, green onions, chili powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Stir until everything is well mixed.

Step 2: Add Breadcrumbs and Eggs

Mix in the breadcrumbs and eggs to the corn mixture until everything is fully incorporated and the mixture can be easily formed into croquette shapes.

Step 3: Shape the Croquettes

Take small portions of the mixture and roll them into bite-sized balls or oval shapes.

Step 4: Fry the Croquettes

Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Fry the croquettes in batches, turning them until golden brown and crispy on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.

Step 5: Drain and Serve

Remove the croquettes from the oil and drain on a paper towel. Serve immediately while hot and crispy.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Chill the Mixture: For easier shaping, chill the corn mixture in the fridge for 15-20 minutes before forming the croquettes.
• Oil Temperature: Make sure the oil is at the right temperature for frying—too hot and they’ll burn, too cool and they’ll absorb too much oil.
• Serve with Dips: Pair these croquettes with a dipping sauce like ranch, salsa, or a creamy chipotle sauce for extra flavor.

How to Serve

Mexican Street Corn Croquettes are perfect as an appetizer, snack, or side dish. Serve them alongside a fresh salad or a bowl of guacamole for a delicious meal. They also pair well with a cold drink, making them ideal for parties or casual gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover croquettes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the oven or air fryer for the best crispiness.

Freezing

To freeze, place the cooked croquettes on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating

Reheat frozen croquettes in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through and crispy.

FAQs

1. Can I use canned corn instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use canned corn. Just make sure to drain and rinse it well before using.

2. What can I use instead of cotija cheese?

Feta cheese is a good substitute for cotija. Parmesan can also work, though it’s less crumbly.

3. Can I bake these croquettes instead of frying them?

Yes, you can bake them at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through for even browning.

4. How do I make them spicier?

Add more cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños to the corn mixture for an extra spicy kick.

5. Can I use frozen corn?

Frozen corn works perfectly. Just thaw it and drain off any excess water before using.

6. How long should I fry the croquettes?

Fry them for about 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.

7. Can I make these croquettes ahead of time?

Yes, you can shape them ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to fry.

8. Can I use a different type of oil for frying?

You can use vegetable oil, canola oil, or sunflower oil for frying.

9. What can I serve with these croquettes?

They go great with salsa, guacamole, or a creamy dipping sauce.

10. Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and check that all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Conclusion

Mexican Street Corn Croquettes are the perfect blend of creamy, cheesy, and crispy, making them a crowd-pleasing dish for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, these croquettes will definitely impress your guests. With easy-to-find ingredients and simple steps, you can bring the delicious flavors of Mexican street corn into your home in a fun and flavorful new way.

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