Our southwestern fried sweet corn is done the same as your exmil did. Only we fry it in butter with a hint of bacon drippings and some whole cayenne pepper. The pepper is removed before serving. They provide a flavor without fiery heat unless you try and eat the pepper. That is not a smart thing for most people to do.
I like raw bell but can't get fully cooked bell pepper down. Sickening. I can eat stir fried Chinese style ok as long as they are still somewhat crunchy in the middle.
