1medium garlic clovegrated or pushed through a press
3/4cupplain breadcrumbs
4large eggslightly beaten
1/2cupfresh cilantrofinely chopped, plus more for serving
1teaspoonbaking powder
1teaspoonkosher salt
1teaspoondried oregano
1teaspoonsmoked paprika
neutral vegetable oillike sunflower or grape seed, for frying
sour cream, crumbled Cotija cheese, chili powder, and lime wedges, for serving
Instructions
Combine the corn kernels, jalapeño, garlic, breadcrumbs, eggs, cilantro, baking powder, salt, oregano, and smoked paprika in a large bowl and stir to fully combine.
Heat about 1/2 inch of oil in a large frying pan set over medium heat until shimmering. Meanwhile, line a large plate or baking sheet with paper towels and set aside.
Working in batches of 4 or 5, scoop out 1/4 cup (about 55 g) of the mixture, form into a rough disk-shape with your hands, and gently transfer to the oil. (Rinse and dry your hands as needed to keep the mixture from sticking.)
Fry, flipping once halfway through, until golden brown on both sides, about 2 minutes per side. (Nudge the heat up or down as needed.) Transfer the latkes to the plate to drain.
Serve the latkes hot, topped with sour cream, cotija cheese, and a sprinkle of chili powder, and with lime wedges on the side for squeezing.