Jalapeno Popcorn Recipe | Spicy & Delicious

Jalapeno popcorn is a fiery, crunchy, and irresistibly bold snack. By infusing popcorn with spicy jalapeño peppers, you can transform an ordinary snack into an explosion of flavor.

Unlike traditional popcorn seasoning, jalapeño popcorn delivers a tangy heat that lingers on your tastebuds. The jalapeños impart just enough burn to keep you reaching for more kernels, while their bright vegetal flavor perfectly complements the corn. Striking the ideal balance between hot, sweet, and savory is crucial.

I’ve spent years traversing the globe and learning from eminent chefs to master the art of infusing popcorn with jalapeño peppers. From smoking the jalapeños to finding the right oil for even coverage, I experimented extensively to create this ultimate jalapeno popcorn recipe. The results are crunchy kernels blanketed in sticky, peppery richness with a slow-building heat.

This jalapeño popcorn is perfect for game days, movie nights, or spice-loving snackers. The jalapeno popcorn recipe is easy enough for beginners but can also be tweaked by seasoned chefs. I’ll share professional tips to take this snack to the next level, as well as important guidance to avoid common pitfalls.

So read on, grab some jalapeños, and get ready to impress. For more snack ideas that are just as delightful and easy to prepare, check out our range of snack recipes at QuickRecipees.com Snack Category.

Procedure 

Heating the Oil

• Add the coconut oil to the large pot and place over medium-high heat. Bring the oil to a slight shimmer, with small bubbles beginning to form at the bottom of the pot.
• As the oil heats up, measure out the unpopped popcorn kernels and place them aside in the metal bowl. Be careful not to let the oil reach its smoking point, as this can burn the popcorn.

Popping the Corn

• Once the oil is shimmering, add 3-4 popcorn kernels as a test. When these kernels pop, the oil has reached the ideal temperature of 400°F. 
• Carefully add the rest of the unpopped kernels in an even layer across the bottom of the pot. Quickly cover the pot and remove from heat for 30 seconds. It brings the temp down slightly to prevent burning.
• Return the pot to the burner. The kernels will begin popping rapidly. Gently shake the pot by sliding it on and off the burner to prevent burning. 
• Once the popping slows to 2-3 seconds between pops, remove the pot from heat.

Seasoning the Popcorn  

• Immediately transfer the popcorn to the large metal bowl. Add the chopped jalapeño peppers, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika and salt.
• To promote even coverage, put oven mitts on both hands and gently toss the popcorn by rotating the bowl. 
• Once seasoned, serve immediately and enjoy! Store any leftovers in an airtight container.

Tips & Tricks

Smoking the Jalapeños 

Soak wood chips in water for 30 minutes, then scatter on the bottom of a foil-lined pan. Place jalapeño slices on a rack above wood chips and smoke for 1-2 hours at 225°F until slightly dried. Imparts a richer flavor.

Flavoring the Oil

Steep garlic cloves and onion slices in oil as it heats. Discard solids before adding kernels. Infuses oil with flavor that permeates every kernel.  

Choosing the Oil

Coconut oil has the highest smoke point, which is ideal. Alternatively, an oil sprayer allows you to thinly and evenly coat kernels.

Preventing Sogginess  

Allow popcorn to cool slightly before adding jalapeno popcorn seasonings to prevent steam condensation. Start with half the seasoning and gently fold in the rest once cooled.

Troubleshooting Burns

If kernels burn before popping, remove them from heat and allow the pot to cool briefly before continuing. Use a lower flame and shake the pot more frequently.

FAQs

Can other types of peppers be used?

Sure, serrano or habanero peppers will also provide heat. For milder heat, use Anaheim or poblano peppers. Adjust the amount to suit your taste.

What drink pairs best with jalapeño popcorn?

Cold, refreshing drinks help tame the heat. Ice-cold beer, lemonade, or even chilled milk make excellent pairings. Discover a variety of refreshing drinks to complement your spicy treat in our Cocktail Section, perfect for balancing the heat.

How long will the popcorn stay fresh? 

Properly stored in an airtight container at room temperature, the popcorn will stay fresh for up to a week. After that, it will lose its signature crunch.

Can I use an air popper instead of the stovetop?

You can, but the flavor won’t penetrate as well compared to the oil method. Use an oil mister to lightly coat the popped corn before seasoning.

Is there a way to incorporate even more jalapeño flavor?

For extreme heat lovers, use pickled jalapeño brine to pop the corn instead of plain oil. Use caution, as this will create an intensely hot popcorn.

Conclusion

From the first indulgent, crispy, spicy bite to the last specks of heat lingering on your tongue, this jalapeño popcorn is truly unforgettable. With the guidance above, you can master the flavors that make this snack so crave-worthy and irresistible. Whether enjoying it yourself or sharing it with delightfully shocked friends, this jalapeño popcorn is guaranteed to spice up any occasion.