Tortitas de Choclo con Queso
Delicious and savory corn fritters, a popular snack or appetizer in Paraguay, made with fresh corn and cheese. These fritters are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, bursting with the sweet flavor of corn and the salty tang of cheese.
🧂 Ingredients
- 3 cups Fresh corn kernels(from about 4-5 ears of corn. For best results, use freshly shucked corn. If using frozen, ensure it's fully thawed and well-drained. Canned corn can be used if thoroughly drained.)
- 1/2 cup All-purpose flour(Acts as a binder for the fritters.)
- 2 large Eggs(Lightly beaten, they help bind the ingredients and add richness.)
- 1 cup Grated cheese(Traditionally, Paraguayan hard cheese (queso Paraguay) is used. A firm, salty white cheese like queso fresco, Monterey Jack, or even a sharp cheddar can be substituted.)
- 1/4 cup Chopped fresh cilantro(Adds a fresh, herbaceous note.)
- 2 tbsp Chopped fresh parsley(Complements the cilantro with a milder herbal flavor.)
- 1 tsp Salt(Adjust to taste, especially considering the saltiness of the cheese.)
- 1/2 tsp Black pepper(Freshly ground for best flavor.)
- approx. 1 inch deep Vegetable oil(For shallow frying. Neutral oils like canola, sunflower, or vegetable oil are suitable.)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the fresh corn kernels, all-purpose flour, lightly beaten eggs, grated cheese, chopped cilantro, chopped parsley, salt, and black pepper. Stir gently until all ingredients are just combined and form a thick, cohesive batter. Be careful not to overmix.
💡 Tip: The batter should be thick enough to hold its shape when dropped into the oil. If it seems too wet, add a tablespoon more flour. If too dry, add a splash of milk or another egg. - 2
Heat the oil: Pour vegetable oil into a large, heavy-bottomed skillet to a depth of about 1 inch. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers and reaches approximately 350°F (175°C). You can test the oil's temperature by dropping a tiny bit of batter into it; it should sizzle immediately and float to the surface.
⏱️ 5-7 minutes💡 Tip: Using a thermometer is the most accurate way to ensure the oil is at the correct temperature. Too cool, and the fritters will absorb too much oil; too hot, and they will burn before cooking through. - 3
Form and fry the fritters: Carefully drop rounded tablespoons of the corn batter into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the skillet. Flatten each spoonful slightly with the back of the spoon or a spatula to create disc shapes, about 1/2 inch thick.
💡 Tip: Frying in batches is crucial to maintain the oil temperature and ensure even cooking. Leave enough space between fritters so they don't stick together. - 4
Cook until golden brown: Fry the fritters for approximately 3-4 minutes per side, or until they are a deep golden brown and appear cooked through. The edges should be crisp, and the center should be firm but tender. Adjust the heat as needed to maintain a steady sizzle without burning the fritters.
⏱️ 6-8 minutes per batch💡 Tip: Listen for a consistent sizzle. If the fritters are browning too quickly, reduce the heat slightly. If they are not browning, increase the heat. - 5
Drain and serve: Using a slotted spoon or spider strainer, carefully remove the cooked fritters from the hot oil. Place them on a wire rack set over a baking sheet or on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Repeat with the remaining batter, ensuring the oil returns to temperature between batches.
💡 Tip: Serve the tortitas de choclo immediately while they are hot and crispy for the best experience. They are delicious on their own or with a side of salsa or a light dipping sauce.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a spicier kick, add one finely chopped jalapeño (seeds removed for less heat) or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the batter.
- ✓If fresh corn is unavailable, you can use frozen corn (thawed and thoroughly drained) or canned corn (well-drained). The texture might be slightly different.
- ✓The type of cheese used will significantly impact the flavor. A salty, firm cheese is recommended for authentic taste. Experiment with different cheeses to find your preference.
- ✓Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying. This is key to achieving a crispy exterior and preventing the fritters from becoming greasy.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add 1 tablespoon of cornstarch to the batter along with the flour for extra crispy fritters.
- Incorporate 1/4 cup of finely diced red or green bell peppers for added color, texture, and a subtle sweetness.
- For a vegetarian option, ensure your cheese is vegetarian-friendly.