Have you harvested more Jalapeño Peppers than you can possibly use, no matter how many Taco nights you have? We’ve got a delicious and easy to make solution: Sweet and Sour Jalapeños! These delightful little bites are not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. Whether you want to add a zing to your burgers, tacos, salads, or even your morning omelet, these jalapeños have got your back. So, put on your apron, and let's get started on this mouthwatering adventure.
Ingredients You'll Need for Sweet and Sour Jalapeños:
- 10-12 fresh jalapeño peppers
- 1 cup white vinegar
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
- 2-3 garlic cloves, smashed
Optional: a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat
How To Cook Sweet and Sour Jalapeños:
Step 1: Prepping the Jalapeños
Wash the jalapeños thoroughly and slice them into thin rings. For a milder version, you can remove the seeds and ribs. If you're feeling bold, leave a few seeds in for that extra kick.
Step 2: Making the Brine
In a saucepan, combine the white vinegar, water, granulated sugar, salt, mustard seeds, black peppercorns, and smashed garlic cloves. Add the optional red pepper flakes if you're up for some spice.
Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Stir occasionally until the sugar dissolves completely.
Step 3: Infusing the Flavors
Once the brine is boiling and the sugar has dissolved, reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together.
Step 4: Pickling the Jalapeños
Carefully pack the sliced jalapeños into clean glass jars. You can use one large jar or a couple of smaller ones.
Pour the hot brine over the jalapeños, ensuring they are completely submerged. Leave about ½ inch of space at the top of the jar.
Give the jar a gentle tap to release any air bubbles. If needed, use a clean knife or chopstick to dislodge any trapped air.
Seal the jars with tight-fitting lids and let them cool to room temperature.
Step 5: Let the Magic Happen
Once the jars are cool, place them in the refrigerator. Let the Sweet and Sour Jalapeños work their magic for at least 24 hours before indulging. The longer they sit, the more flavorful they become.
Step 6: Enjoy!
Sweet and Sour Jalapeños are the perfect condiment to add a burst of flavor to a variety of dishes. Try them on burgers, hot dogs, sandwiches, tacos, salads, or even as a topping for grilled chicken or fish.
Don't forget to use the leftover brine in salad dressings, marinades, or even cocktails. Waste not, want not!
Congratulations, you've just mastered the art of making Sweet and Sour Jalapeños from scratch! These little flavor bombs are bound to become your new kitchen staple. Experiment with different levels of spiciness and sweetness to suit your taste buds. So go ahead, whip up a batch, and get ready to elevate your culinary creations with a touch of homemade deliciousness. Happy pickling!
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