Ingredients with Measurements:
- 12 jalapeno peppers
- 8 oz. queso crema (cream cheese)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/4 tsp. garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp. onion powder
- 1/4 tsp. cumin
- 1/4 tsp. salt
- 1/4 tsp. black pepper
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Special equipment needed:
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon
- Small cookie scoop or spoon
- Baking sheet
- Wire rack
- Deep fryer or large pot
- Slotted spoon
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the deep fryer or large pot with vegetable oil to 375°F.
2. Cut the jalapeno peppers in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes with a spoon.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the queso crema, shredded cheddar cheese, cilantro, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
4. Using a small cookie scoop or spoon, fill each jalapeno half with the queso crema mixture.
5. In three separate bowls, place the flour, beaten eggs, and panko breadcrumbs.
6. Dip each jalapeno popper in the flour, then the beaten eggs, and finally the panko breadcrumbs. Make sure to coat each popper evenly.
7. Place the coated jalapeno poppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Once the oil is heated to 375°F, carefully place the jalapeno poppers in the oil with a slotted spoon. Fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
9. Remove the jalapeno poppers from the oil with a slotted spoon and place them on a wire rack to cool.
10. Serve the queso crema and jalapeno poppers hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 5-6 minutes
Temperature:
Frying temperature: 375°F
Serving size:
This recipe makes 24 jalapeno poppers.
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 92
Fat per serving: 6g
Carbohydrates per serving: 7g
Protein per serving: 3g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Queso fresco or goat cheese can be substituted for queso crema.
- Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese can be substituted for cheddar cheese.
- Parsley or green onions can be substituted for cilantro.
Variations:
- Add cooked and crumbled bacon to the queso crema mixture.
- Use different types of peppers, such as poblano or banana peppers.
- Add diced tomatoes or green chilies to the queso crema mixture.
Tips and tricks:
- Wear gloves when handling the jalapeno peppers to avoid irritation to your skin.
- Use a small cookie scoop or spoon to fill the jalapeno halves with the queso crema mixture for even portions.
- Make sure the oil is heated to 375°F before frying to ensure the jalapeno poppers cook evenly and become crispy.
Storage instructions:
Leftover jalapeno poppers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
To reheat, place the jalapeno poppers on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-12 minutes or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the jalapeno poppers on a platter with a variety of dipping sauces, such as ranch, salsa, or guacamole.
Garnishes:
Garnish the jalapeno poppers with chopped cilantro or green onions.
Pairings:
Serve the jalapeno poppers with a cold beer or margarita.
Suggested side dishes:
- Mexican rice
- Refried beans
- Grilled corn on the cob
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the jalapeno poppers are not crispy, increase the frying time by 1-2 minutes.
- If the queso crema mixture is too soft, add more shredded cheese to thicken it.
Food safety advice:
- Wash your hands thoroughly before and after handling jalapeno peppers.
- Use a thermometer to ensure the oil is heated to the correct temperature before frying.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the jalapeno poppers from the oil to avoid burns.
Food history:
Jalapeno poppers originated in the United States in the 1980s and have since become a popular appetizer at restaurants and parties.
Flavor profiles:
The queso crema and jalapeno poppers have a spicy and creamy flavor with a crispy texture.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the queso crema and jalapeno poppers as an appetizer or snack. They are perfect for game day or any party.
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Region: Mexican