Jalapeno Poppers Salad

Jalapeno Poppers Salad Recipe - A Spicy Jordanian Delight

Region / culture: Jordan | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Jalapeno poppers are a popular appetizer that combines the heat of jalapeno peppers with the creaminess of cheese. In this recipe, we take a twist on the classic jalapeno popper by turning it into a salad. This salad is a perfect combination of spicy, creamy, and crunchy flavors that will surely impress your guests.

History

Jalapeno poppers are believed to have originated in the United States in the 1970s. They are typically made by stuffing jalapeno peppers with cream cheese or cheddar cheese, then breaded and deep-fried. This recipe puts a new spin on the classic appetizer by incorporating it into a salad.

Ingredients

12 jalapeno peppers, sliced in half lengthwise, with seeds removed
8 oz (227 g) cream cheese, at room temperature
2 eggs, beaten
2 tbsp water
a dash of salt
1 cup plain dry breadcrumbs
oil for deep frying

How to prepare

Fill jalapeno pepper halves with cream cheese and press halves together.
Combine eggs, water, and salt.
Dip jalapeno peppers into the egg mixture and then into breadcrumbs.
Place on a cookie sheet and freeze for 2 hours.
Heat oil in a deep fryer to 370°.
Deep fry peppers in batches for about 3 minutes, or until they turn golden brown.
Transfer jalapeno poppers to paper towels to drain.

Variations

Substitute the cream cheese with goat cheese or cheddar cheese for a different flavor profile.
Add cooked bacon or diced ham to the cream cheese mixture for a meatier version of the salad.
Top the salad with a drizzle of ranch dressing or a sprinkle of chopped cilantro for added flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to wear gloves when handling jalapeno peppers to avoid getting the spicy oils on your skin.

- Freezing the stuffed jalapeno peppers before frying helps them hold their shape and prevents the cheese from melting too quickly.

- Be sure to heat the oil to the correct temperature before frying to ensure that the jalapeno poppers cook evenly and turn golden brown.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the jalapeno poppers salad as an appetizer or side dish at your next gathering. Pair it with a light and refreshing salad to balance out the heat of the jalapenos.

Cooking Techniques

Deep frying the jalapeno poppers gives them a crispy exterior and a creamy interior.

- Freezing the stuffed jalapeno peppers before frying helps them hold their shape and prevents the cheese from melting too quickly.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use panko breadcrumbs instead of plain breadcrumbs for a crunchier coating.

- Substitute jalapeno peppers with mini sweet peppers for a milder version of the salad.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the stuffed jalapeno peppers ahead of time and freeze them until ready to fry.

- The fried jalapeno poppers can be reheated in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the jalapeno poppers salad on a bed of mixed greens for a colorful and appetizing presentation. - Garnish the salad with a sprinkle of chopped green onions or a drizzle of hot sauce for added flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair the jalapeno poppers salad with a crisp and refreshing beer or a glass of chilled white wine.

- Serve the salad alongside grilled chicken or steak for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover jalapeno poppers salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

- Reheat the salad in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of jalapeno poppers salad contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of jalapeno poppers salad contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of jalapeno poppers salad contains approximately 12 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of jalapeno poppers salad contains approximately 6 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Jalapeno peppers are a good source of vitamin C, vitamin K, and vitamin A. Cream cheese provides calcium and vitamin D.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cream cheese) and eggs.

Summary

Jalapeno poppers salad is a delicious and indulgent dish that is high in fat and calories. It is best enjoyed in moderation as a special treat.

Summary

Jalapeno poppers salad is a delicious and indulgent dish that combines the heat of jalapeno peppers with the creaminess of cheese. This recipe is perfect for entertaining or as a special treat for yourself. Enjoy the spicy, creamy, and crunchy flavors of this unique salad!

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time brings a smile to my face. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl eager to learn the secrets of the kitchen from my mother. We were visiting a friend's house for a dinner party, and I was helping my mother prepare the salad while she worked on the main course.

As I chopped the vegetables and arranged them on a platter, I couldn't help but notice a bowl of jalapeno poppers sitting on the counter. They were a vibrant green color, stuffed with a creamy filling, and topped with a sprinkle of cheese. I had never seen anything like them before, and I was instantly intrigued.

I asked our hostess about the jalapeno poppers, and she told me that they were a family recipe that had been passed down for generations. She kindly offered to show me how to make them, and I eagerly accepted.

We gathered the ingredients - fresh jalapenos, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and breadcrumbs - and got to work. I watched intently as she sliced the jalapenos in half, removed the seeds and membranes, and filled them with the creamy cheese mixture. She then coated them in breadcrumbs and baked them in the oven until they were golden brown and crispy.

The aroma that filled the kitchen was heavenly, and I couldn't wait to taste the finished jalapeno poppers. When they were ready, I took a bite and was blown away by the combination of flavors - the spicy kick of the jalapenos, the creamy richness of the cheese, and the crunchy texture of the breadcrumbs. It was a revelation.

From that moment on, I was hooked. I begged our hostess for the recipe, and she graciously shared it with me. I made the jalapeno poppers salad for my family the very next day, and it quickly became a favorite in our household.

Over the years, I have made some modifications to the original recipe, adding my own twist to make it my own. I started incorporating fresh herbs like cilantro and parsley, as well as other vegetables like corn and black beans. I found that these additions gave the salad a burst of freshness and a depth of flavor that was truly irresistible.

I have shared the recipe with friends, neighbors, and even strangers who have tasted the salad at potlucks and gatherings. It has become my signature dish, the one that everyone requests whenever there is a special occasion or a celebration.

As I look back on that day when I discovered the recipe for jalapeno poppers salad, I am filled with gratitude for the kindness of our hostess and the joy that cooking has brought into my life. It is a reminder that sometimes the best recipes are not found in cookbooks or on the internet, but in the kitchens of our friends and loved ones.

And so, I continue to make the jalapeno poppers salad with love and passion, sharing it with those around me and creating new memories along the way. It is a dish that will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the power of food to bring people together and create lasting connections.