Mexican Corn Cakes with Jalapeño & Lime are a delightful fusion of sweet and spicy flavors, perfect as a side dish, snack, or even a light meal. These corn cakes are easy to prepare and packed with vibrant, fresh ingredients that make them a standout addition to any table. The combination of sweet corn, tangy lime, and a hint of heat from the jalapeño will leave your taste buds craving more!
Ingredients
For the Corn Cakes:
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup melted butter
- 1 jalapeño, finely chopped
- Zest and juice of 1 lime
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
Step 1: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, and baking soda. This step ensures that the leavening agents and sweetener are evenly distributed throughout the batter, giving you light and fluffy corn cakes.
Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, mix the buttermilk, eggs, melted butter, lime zest, and lime juice until well combined. The buttermilk adds a rich tang, while the lime zest and juice infuse the batter with a refreshing citrus flavor.
Step 3: Combine and Add Extras
Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the corn cakes tough. Gently fold in the chopped jalapeño and corn kernels, which will give your corn cakes their signature kick and sweet corn flavor.
Step 4: Cook the Corn Cakes
Heat a lightly oiled griddle or large skillet over medium heat. For each corn cake, pour about ¼ cup of batter onto the griddle. Cook until bubbles form on the surface and the edges start to set, then flip and cook the other side until golden brown. This should take about 2-3 minutes per side.
Step 5: Serve
Serve the corn cakes warm, topped with a dollop of sour cream, extra lime juice, or fresh cilantro. These toppings add a cool, creamy contrast to the spicy corn cakes, enhancing their flavor profile.
Additional Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Calories per Serving: Approx. 200
Tips for the Best Mexican Corn Cakes
- For Extra Heat: Leave the seeds in the jalapeño when chopping it. This will intensify the spice level in your corn cakes, making them perfect for those who love a bit of heat.
- Serve with Sides: Pair these corn cakes with a side of salsa or guacamole for an added layer of flavor. The creamy guacamole or tangy salsa will complement the corn cakes beautifully.
- Versatile Toppings: These corn cakes make a great base for a variety of toppings. Try them with pulled pork, grilled vegetables, or even a fried egg for a complete meal.
Conclusion
Mexican Corn Cakes with Jalapeño & Lime are a versatile and flavorful dish that can be enjoyed at any time of day. Whether you’re serving them as a side dish, a snack, or a light meal, these corn cakes are sure to impress with their perfect blend of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors. Easy to prepare and endlessly customizable, they’re a must-try recipe for anyone who loves bold, vibrant food.