Fried jalapeños are a spicy and crunchy snack that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a game day, or just craving something with a kick, these fried jalapeños are sure to be a hit. The combination of a crispy beer batter and the natural heat of the jalapeños makes for an irresistible treat. Let’s get started on making these delicious fried jalapeños!
Ingredients
- 2 cups sliced jalapeño peppers
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup beer
- ½ quart vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Jalapeños
- Slice the Jalapeños: If not already sliced, slice the jalapeño peppers into 1/4-inch thick rings. Remove the seeds if you prefer a milder heat.
- Dry the Jalapeños: Pat the sliced jalapeños dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This helps the batter adhere better.
Step 2: Prepare the Batter
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, garlic powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Add Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs until beaten, then add the beer. Mix until combined.
- Mix the Batter: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, whisking until you have a smooth, thick batter.
Step 3: Heat the Oil
- Heat the Oil: Pour the vegetable oil into a deep skillet or Dutch oven to a depth of about 2 inches. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to check the temperature.
Step 4: Fry the Jalapeños
- Dip in Batter: Dip the sliced jalapeños into the batter, coating them evenly. Let any excess batter drip off.
- Fry the Jalapeños: Carefully place the battered jalapeño slices into the hot oil. Fry in batches to avoid overcrowding the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Drain: Use a slotted spoon to remove the fried jalapeños from the oil. Place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Step 5: Season and Serve
- Season: While still hot, sprinkle the fried jalapeños with a little extra salt, if desired.
- Serve: Serve the fried jalapeños hot with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ranch dressing, spicy aioli, or salsa.
Cooking Notes
- Heat Level: If you want to reduce the heat, remove the seeds and inner membranes from the jalapeños before slicing.
- Beer: The beer in the batter adds flavor and helps create a light, crispy texture. Use a mild-flavored beer for the best results.
- Oil Temperature: Maintaining the correct oil temperature is crucial for achieving crispy fried jalapeños. If the oil is too hot, they will burn; if it’s too cool, they will be greasy.
Variations
- Cheesy Fried Jalapeños: Add shredded cheese to the batter for a cheesy twist.
- Herb-Infused Batter: Add finely chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley to the batter for added flavor.
- Spicy Batter: Increase the heat by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the batter.
Keto Version
To make a keto-friendly version, substitute the all-purpose flour with almond flour or a low-carb flour blend. Use a low-carb beer or replace the beer with sparkling water to maintain the batter’s lightness.
Low Carb Version
For a lower-carb option, use a blend of almond flour and coconut flour in place of the all-purpose flour. Ensure the batter remains thick enough to coat the jalapeños well.
Fried jalapeños are a spicy, crunchy, and utterly delicious snack that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of a crispy beer batter and the natural heat of jalapeños makes these an irresistible treat. This recipe is easy to follow and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy making and sharing these spicy delights with your friends and family. Happy cooking!
