Ingredients
1 1/2 cups masa harina
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon coarse salt
1/2 cup grated cotija cheese
2 cups coarsely chopped fresh or frozen corn kernels (about 2 ears)
3/4 to 1 cup warm water (110 degrees)
4 to 6 tablespoons vegetable oil, for frying
Preparation
Whisk together masa harina, flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl. Stir in cheese and corn kernels. Add water, 1/4 cup at a time, stirring after each addition until mixture holds together.
Heat 1/4 cup oil in a cast-iron skillet over medium heat until hot but not smoking, about 5 minutes. Meanwhile, scoop a heaping 1/3 cup mixture, and use your hands to shape into a patty, about 1/3 inch thick. Repeat with remaining mixture, forming 8 patties.
Working in batches of 4, fry patties, turning once, until golden brown, 2 to 4 minutes per side. Using a slotted spoon, transfer to paper towels to drain. If pan becomes dry, add 2 tablespoons oil for second batch. Cover patties with foil to keep warm, up to 30 minutes.
