Crispy Jalapeño Poppers – Cheesy & Spicy Delight are the ultimate appetizer or snack, combining the bold heat of jalapeños with a creamy, cheesy filling and a crispy coating. Here’s how to make this irresistible treat!
Ingredients:
For the Jalapeño Filling:
- 10-12 fresh jalapeño peppers
- 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup (100 g) shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and mozzarella)
- ¼ cup (30 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Coating:
- 1 cup (120 g) all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup (100 g) breadcrumbs (panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch)
- ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Frying:
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
- Prepare the Jalapeños:
- Slice the jalapeños in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes (use gloves to prevent irritation from the jalapeño oils).
- Set the jalapeño halves aside.
- Make the Cheese Filling:
- In a medium bowl, combine the cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, and chopped cilantro (if using).
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well-combined.
- Stuff the Jalapeños:
- Using a spoon, generously fill each jalapeño half with the cheese mixture. Press down lightly to pack the filling in.
- Prepare the Coating:
- In one shallow bowl, place the flour.
- In a second shallow bowl, beat the eggs.
- In a third shallow bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Coat the Jalapeños:
- Dip each stuffed jalapeño first into the flour, ensuring it’s coated on all sides.
- Next, dip it into the beaten egg, and then coat it in the breadcrumb mixture. Make sure each jalapeño is fully coated for an extra crispy crust.
- Fry the Jalapeños:
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or skillet over medium-high heat (about 350°F/175°C).
- Carefully fry the coated jalapeños in batches for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove the poppers from the oil and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Serve:
- Serve the crispy jalapeño poppers warm, with your favorite dipping sauce such as ranch dressing, sour cream, or a spicy salsa.
Tips:
- To make them even spicier, leave a few seeds in the jalapeños or add a bit of finely chopped jalapeño into the cheese mixture.
- For a lighter version, bake the poppers in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, until golden brown and crispy.
- You can make the poppers ahead of time, freeze them, and fry them later for a quick snack.
These Crispy Jalapeño Poppers are the perfect combination of cheesy, spicy, and crispy, making them an irresistible snack for any occasion!