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Crispy Deep-Fried Jalapeño Poppers Recipe

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3.9 from 9 reviews

Crispy Deep-Fried Jalapeño Poppers are spicy jalapeño rings stuffed with a flavorful cream cheese mixture, coated in a classic breading, and fried to golden perfection. Served with roasted tomato salsa, these poppers make a delicious appetizer or party snack bursting with creamy heat and crunch.

Ingredients

Jalapeño Poppers

  • 1 pound jalapeños
  • 1 pound (16 ounces) cream cheese
  • 2 tablespoons fresh juice from 2 limes
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • Kosher salt, to taste

Breading

  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups fine breadcrumbs

Frying

  • 1 to 2 quarts vegetable or canola oil, for frying

Serving

  • 1 batch roasted tomato salsa or your favorite salsa, for serving

Instructions

  1. Prepare Jalapeños: Wearing gloves, trim off and discard the tops and bottoms of each jalapeño. Slice each crosswise into 1-inch rings, then carefully remove all seeds and inner white ribs using a small melon baller or similar tool to reduce heat and create hollow rings ready for stuffing.
  2. Make the Filling: In a medium bowl, thoroughly mix the cream cheese with fresh lime juice, garlic powder, onion powder, and ground cumin. Season the mixture with kosher salt to taste.
  3. Stuff Jalapeño Rings: Using a butter knife, pack the cream cheese filling into each jalapeño ring, filling completely and smoothing the surface to ensure an even fill within each ring.
  4. Set Up Breading Stations: Prepare three separate bowls—one with whole milk, one with all-purpose flour, and one with fine breadcrumbs for coating the poppers.
  5. First Coat: Dip each stuffed popper in the milk, then transfer and coat thoroughly in flour. Place the floured poppers on a parchment-lined baking sheet and let them rest for 5 minutes to allow the coating to set.
  6. Second Coat: After resting, dip each floured popper again in milk to moisten, then coat completely in breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure an even, thick crust. Repeat this process until all poppers are coated.
  7. Heat Oil: Heat 2 inches of vegetable or canola oil in a deep fryer or large heavy saucepan to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to maintain the correct frying temperature for optimal crispiness.
  8. Fry Poppers: Carefully add poppers in batches to the hot oil without overcrowding. Fry, gently turning and stirring occasionally, until a golden brown crust forms, about 5 minutes.
  9. Drain and Season: Using a slotted spoon, transfer fried poppers to a paper towel-lined baking sheet to drain excess oil. Immediately season with kosher salt while still hot.
  10. Serve: Allow poppers to rest for 5 minutes to crisp up further before serving warm with roasted tomato salsa or your favorite salsa on the side for dipping.

Notes

  • Wear gloves when handling jalapeños to avoid skin irritation from the capsaicin oils.
  • Removing seeds and ribs can reduce the heat level if preferred milder poppers.
  • Ensure oil temperature remains steady at 350°F to avoid greasy poppers.
  • Do not overcrowd the fryer to maintain crispiness and even cooking.
  • Use freshly made salsa to complement the spicy and creamy poppers.
  • These poppers are best enjoyed immediately but can be kept warm in a low oven for up to 30 minutes.

Find it online: https://dishcooks.com/crispy-deep-fried-jalapeno-poppers-recipe/