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Fried Jalapenos Recipe – Easy Crunchy Bottle Caps Appetizer

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Crispy, golden fried jalapeno slices—also known as bottle caps—make a spicy, crunchy appetizer perfect for parties, game nights, or snacking with your favorite dip. This easy recipe uses a seasoned flour and cornmeal coating for maximum crunch and flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8–10 medium fresh jalapenos (about 8 oz), sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
  • 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup cornmeal (medium grind preferred)
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1/4 cup milk or buttermilk
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika (sweet or smoked)
  • Vegetable oil for frying (about 2 cups)
  • Optional: pickled jalapenos (substitute for fresh for milder flavor)
  • Optional: gluten-free flour blend (substitute for all-purpose flour)
  • Optional: almond milk (substitute for milk)
  • Optional: pinch of cayenne or chili powder for extra heat

Instructions

  1. Wash and dry jalapenos. Slice into 1/4-inch rounds. Remove seeds and membranes for less heat if desired.
  2. Set up two coating stations: In one bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. In a second bowl, beat eggs and milk until smooth.
  3. Dredge each jalapeno slice in the flour mixture, then dip into the egg/milk mix, then back into the flour blend. Shake off excess at each step.
  4. Pour oil into a heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven to about 1 inch deep. Heat to 350°F (175°C).
  5. Carefully add coated jalapeno slices to hot oil in batches, frying 1-2 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
  6. Transfer fried jalapenos to a paper towel-lined plate or wire rack to drain. Sprinkle lightly with extra salt while hot if desired. Let cool for 2-3 minutes.
  7. Serve hot with ranch, chipotle mayo, or your favorite dip.

Notes

For less heat, remove seeds and membranes from jalapenos. Pickled jalapenos can be used for a milder, tangy flavor. For gluten-free, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. To bake instead of fry, arrange coated jalapenos on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spray with oil, and bake at 425°F for 15-20 minutes. Drain fried jalapenos on a wire rack for maximum crispiness. Serve immediately for best texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: fried jalapenos, bottle caps, appetizer, spicy snack, party food, game night, crunchy jalapenos, vegetarian, easy recipe

Find it online: https://blairrecipes.com/fried-jalapenos-recipe-easy-crunchy-bottle-caps-appetizer/