Quick Pickled Jalapenos

Quick Pickled Jalapeños are a must-have condiment that adds a sweet and spicy kick to your meals. Perfect for sandwiches, nachos, or as a standalone snack, these quick pickles are easy to prepare and store well in the fridge. In just 10 minutes of prep time, you can enjoy the vibrant flavors of oregano and garlic paired with the heat of fresh jalapeños.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With only 10 minutes of prep time, you can have delicious pickled jalapeños ready in no time.
• Versatile Use: These quick pickles work wonderfully on sandwiches, tacos, salads, or even as a topping for grilled meats.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of garlic, oregano, and sweetness creates a unique flavor profile that’s sure to impress.
• Long Shelf Life: Store them in your fridge for up to two months and always have a tasty condiment on hand.
• Healthier Alternative: Homemade Quick Pickled Jalapeños can be healthier than store-bought options, allowing you to control ingredients.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather the essential tools needed for making Quick Pickled Jalapeños. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Medium sized pot
• Tongs or slotted spoon
• Jar for storage

Importance of Each Tool

• Medium sized pot: Ideal for boiling the brine and mixing ingredients evenly.
• Tongs or slotted spoon: Helpful for transferring jalapeño slices without losing any brine.
• Jar for storage: A clean jar keeps your Quick Pickled Jalapeños fresh and ready to use.

Ingredients

This recipe for Quick Pickled Jalapeños is sweet and spicy, flavored with oregano and garlic, and takes only 10 minutes of prep! Use on sandwiches, nachos, etc.

• 20-25 jalapeno peppers (sliced into rings)
• 4-5 cloves garlic (smashed)
• 2 cups white vinegar
• 2 cups water
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 2 tablespoons kosher salt
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Quick Pickled Jalapenos

Step 1: Prepare the Brine

Bring all ingredients except jalapeños to a boil in a medium sized pot. Combine:
1. 4-5 cloves smashed garlic
2. 2 cups white vinegar
3. 2 cups water
4. 1/2 cup sugar
5. 2 tablespoons kosher salt
6. 2 teaspoons dried oregano

Step 2: Add Jalapeños

Once the brine is boiling:
1. Add the sliced jalapeño rings to the pot.
2. Stir everything together gently.
3. Remove from heat after stirring.

Step 3: Fill Your Jar

Using tongs or a slotted spoon:
1. Transfer jalapeño slices into your clean jar.
2. Smush them in gently to fit more in if needed.
3. Pour enough brine from the pot over them to fill the jar completely.
4. Discard any leftover brine.

Step 4: Cool and Store

Let your Quick Pickled Jalapeños cool at room temperature:
1. Place them in the refrigerator for about an hour before consuming.
2. For optimal freshness, store in your fridge for up to two months.

Enjoy these delightful pickles as a topping or snack anytime!

How to Serve Quick Pickled Jalapenos

Quick Pickled Jalapeños add a delightful kick to many dishes. They are versatile and can enhance the flavors of various meals. Here are some great ways to enjoy them.

On Sandwiches

• Spicy Layer: Add pickled jalapeños to your favorite sandwiches for an extra spicy layer that complements meats and cheeses.

In Tacos

• Flavor Booster: Top your tacos with quick pickled jalapeños to enhance the flavor profile, providing a sweet and tangy contrast.

With Nachos

• Perfect Topping: Use pickled jalapeños as a topping on nachos for added heat and crunch, balancing the melted cheese.

In Salads

• Zesty Addition: Toss some in salads for a zesty burst. They work well with greens, beans, or grain salads.

On Pizza

• Unique Topping: Sprinkle them on pizza for a spicy twist. They pair particularly well with pepperoni or veggie toppings.

As a Snack

• Straight from the Jar: Enjoy them straight from the jar as a quick snack. Their sweet and spicy flavor makes them irresistibly tasty.

How to Perfect Quick Pickled Jalapenos

To make the best Quick Pickled Jalapeños, consider these helpful tips that can elevate your recipe.

• Bold Flavoring: Use fresh garlic for a more robust taste. Fresh ingredients make a significant difference in flavor.
• Adjust Sweetness: Modify the sugar amount based on your preference for sweetness versus heat. You can increase or decrease it to suit your taste.
• Use Fresh Jalapeños: Select firm, bright green jalapeños for optimum flavor and crispness. Freshness ensures better results.
• Experiment with Spices: Consider adding additional spices like cumin or coriander to the brine for unique flavor profiles.
• Let Them Sit Longer: For more intense flavor, allow the jalapeños to marinate longer than 10 minutes before using them.
• Store Properly: Keep your pickled jalapeños in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain their freshness and crunch.

Best Side Dishes for Quick Pickled Jalapenos

Quick Pickled Jalapeños pair wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some suggestions that complement their flavor perfectly.

1. Cornbread: A sweet cornbread balances the spice of pickled jalapeños, creating a delightful contrast.
2. Guacamole: The creaminess of guacamole combined with pickled jalapeños enhances its flavor and adds heat.
3. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw offers a refreshing taste that pairs well with the spiciness of the jalapeños.
4. Chips and Salsa: Serve them alongside chips and salsa for an exciting appetizer that brings out all flavors.
5. Potato Salad: Mix in pickled jalapeños into potato salad for an unexpected zesty kick that elevates this classic dish.
6. Quesadillas: Pair quick pickled jalapeños with cheesy quesadillas for an added layer of spice and flavor to each bite.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Quick Pickled Jalapeños can be easy, but some common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are a few pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using unwashed jalapeños: Always wash your jalapeños before slicing them. Dirt and bacteria can affect flavor and safety.
• Skipping the brine boil: Failing to bring the vinegar mixture to a boil can result in insufficient flavor infusion. Always boil the brine to ensure optimal taste.
• Not letting them sit long enough: Quick pickling still requires time for flavors to meld. Allow at least 10 minutes, but longer is even better for full flavor development.
• Overcrowding the jar: When packing jalapeños into the jar, don’t force too many in. Overcrowding can prevent proper brining. Ensure there’s enough space for the brine to circulate.
• Ignoring storage guidelines: Improper storage can lead to spoilage. Store your Quick Pickled Jalapeños in a clean, airtight container in the refrigerator.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: Store Quick Pickled Jalapeños in the refrigerator for up to 2 months.
• Container: Use a clean glass jar with a tight-sealing lid to keep them fresh.
• Labeling: Consider labeling your jar with the date you made them for reference.

Freezing Quick Pickled Jalapenos

• Duration: For best quality, consume within 3 months if frozen.
• Container: Use freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving room for expansion.
• Thawing: Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before using.

Reheating Quick Pickled Jalapenos

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat them on a baking sheet until warm. This preserves their texture.
• Microwave: Place jalapeños in a microwave-safe dish and heat in short intervals (30 seconds), stirring in between until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat gently in a small skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. This method keeps them crisp.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do Quick Pickled Jalapenos last?

Quick Pickled Jalapeños can last up to 2 months when stored properly in the refrigerator.

Can I customize my Quick Pickled Jalapenos?

Yes! Feel free to add other spices like cumin or peppercorns for different flavor profiles.

Are Quick Pickled Jalapenos spicy?

The spiciness level depends on the variety of jalapeño used and how long they sit in the brine. For milder flavors, reduce soaking time.

What dishes pair well with Quick Pickled Jalapenos?

These pickles are fantastic on sandwiches, tacos, nachos, or as a topping for burgers and salads!

Final Thoughts

This recipe for Quick Pickled Jalapeños is not only quick but also versatile and flavorful. Perfect as a topping or side, these pickles bring an exciting kick to any dish. Feel free to customize with your favorite spices or herbs! Try this recipe today and enjoy its delightful sweet and spicy notes!