Jalapeno poppers are the perfect appetizer for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking to satisfy your cravings, these spicy and creamy treats are sure to hit the spot. And you will be surprised at how easy they are to make.
All about Jalapeno Poppers
Jalapeno poppers are a popular appetizer or snack consisting of jalapenos that have been hollowed out, stuffed with cheese and/or other ingredients, and then fried or baked. You can serve them as-is, but many people enjoy dipping them into sauces, such as ranch dressing or salsa.
Jalapeño poppers are believed to have originated in the United States in the late 1970s and early 1980s. The popularity of jalapeño poppers has been attributed to Tex-Mex cuisine because the dish is a combination of Mexican spiciness and American convenience.
Jalapeno poppers make for an excellent party food because they are easy to make and can be served in a variety of ways. And with some simple additions, you can create new variations each time you serve them.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Jalapeno Poppers
- Fresh jalapeno peppers
- Cream cheese
- Bacon
- Garlic powder
- Dried oregano
- Salt
- Eggs
- Breadcrumbs
- Oil
How to Make Jalapeno Poppers
Prepare the jalapenos and cream cheese filling:
- Remove the insides of the jalapenos: Cut off the stem. Make a cut along one side of the jalapeno and remove the seeds.
- Cut the bacon widthwise into small strips. Pan fry the bacon until it is golden and crispy. Remove the released grease.
- Combine the cream cheese, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and fried bacon pieces in a small bowl and mix well.
Prep 2 bowls:
- Beat the eggs in the first bowl and set aside.
- Place the breadcrumbs in another bowl and set aside.
Prepare and fry the jalapeno poppers:
- Fill each jalapeno with the cream cheese filling.
- Dip each filled jalapeno into the egg wash then into the breadcrumbs, making sure to coat each jalapeno well.
- Add enough oil to the frying pan to fry the jalapeno poppers. You will need more or less oil depending on the size of your frying pan. Heat the oil on medium-high heat.
- Fry the jalapeno poppers in the oil until golden and crispy. Remove the poppers and allow them to sit on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb the excess oil.
Tips and Variations for Jalapeno Poppers
To ensure the best jalapeno poppers, it is important to follow some simple tips when selecting and preparing your peppers. And try out these variation ideas for more creativity.
- Start with medium-sized fresh, ripe jalapeno peppers. Selecting the right size of pepper is essential. If they are too small, they won’t have enough heat or filling. If they are too large, they won’t cook through well.
- Use gloves when you are emptying the jalapenos. Otherwise, your hands will have the jalapeno residue and can burn your eyes or face if you touch them.
- Make sure the oil is hot before you start frying the poppers. Do not rush this step. If the oil is not hot enough, the jalapeno poppers will absorb too much oil and become an oily mess. You can make sure the oil is hot enough by dipping a wooden toothpick in the oil or sprinkling a few breadcrumbs in the oil. If it bubbles, the oil is ready.
- Try adding shredded cheddar cheese to the filling mixture.
- Wrap your jalapeno poppers in bacon strips before dipping them in the egg wash and breadcrumbs.
- For a healthier twist, bake your jalapenos instead of frying them. This will reduce the amount of fat and calories in your poppers.
- Spice things up with a mixture of diced tomatoes, cilantro, green chilies, and seasonings for a delicious southwestern flavor.
- Mix the cream cheese with a variety of sweet fruits, such as pineapple or peach, to make a unique variation on the classic jalapeno popper.
Jalapeno Poppers FAQs
Why are jalapenos spicy?
Jalapenos get their spiciness from a chemical compound called capsaicin. Capsaicin acts as an irritant for mammals and produces a burning sensation in the mouth. This spiciness acts as a defense mechanism for the jalapeno pepper, but if you like spicy foods, it is a pleasure for you.
Are jalapenos nutritious?
Yes, jalapenos are a nutritious vegetable. They are low in calories and fat, but note that some other ingredients in this recipe are not. And jalapenos contain fiber and vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C and vitamin B6. Slice jalapenos and add them to your scrambled eggs, sandwiches, or salads.
How do I store leftover jalapeno poppers?
These jalapeno poppers are best eaten right away after frying. But they can last up to 5 days stored in a sealed container in the fridge.
Other Appetizer Recipes
- Olive Tapenade Two Ways
- Muffuletta Hoagie Dip
- Garlic Parmesan Pretzel Bites
- Cajun Dry Rub Chicken Wings
Bottom Line
Jalapeno poppers are an easy appetizer or snack that is sure to please. So the next time you’re in need of a quick bite or party appetizer idea, give these spicy yet creamy jalapeno poppers a try.
Jalapeno Poppers
Spicy and creamy jalapeño poppers. Insanely addictive and so easy to make.
Ingredients
- 12 fresh jalapeño peppers
- 1 ½ cup cream cheese
- 1 cup bacon
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 eggs
- 2 cups breadcrumbs
- Enough oil to fry them (depending on your frying pan you might need more or less)
Instructions
- Start by emptying the jalapeños. For this cut the top part with the stem and make a cut along the jalapeño. Remove the seeds.
- Cut the bacon in strips and pan fry it until golden and crispy. Remove the released grease.
- In a small bowl combine the cream cheese, garlic powder, oregano, salt and fried bacon and mix well.
- Prep 2 bowls with: the two eggs (beaten),the breadcrumbs
- Fill each jalapeño with the cream cheese and bacon mixture.
- Dip each one of them into the egg wash and then into the breadcrumbs, making sure to coat them well. Reserve
- In the frying pan, add enough oil to fry them and heat on medium-high heat.
- Fry them in the oil until golden and crispy. Let sit in a plate lined in kitchen paper to absorb the excess oil.
- Enjoy
Notes
To empty the jalapeños, I highly recommend using gloves otherwise your hands are going to be quite fiery (and your eyes or face if you touch it afterwards!)
When frying them, make sure the oil is hot, do not hurry this, otherwise the jalapeños will absorb too much oil and become an oily mess.
You can make sure the oil is hot enough by dipping a wooden toothpick. If it bubbles, the oil is ready.
These are best eaten right away when done, however can last up to 5 days when stored in a sealed container in the fridge.
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