Jalapeno Poppers!

Jalapeño poppers are a mouthwatering appetizer that combines the heat of jalapeño peppers with creamy, savory fillings. To make them, start by slicing jalapeños in half lengthwise and removing the seeds and membranes for a milder flavor. Then, fill each jalapeño half with a mixture of cream cheese, pepper jack or cheddar cheese, herbs, and spices. For an extra kick, you can add cooked bacon or diced chorizo to the filling.

Once they're done, serve these irresistible treats hot with a side of ranch dressing or salsa for dipping. Whether you're hosting a party or just craving a spicy snack, jalapeño poppers are sure to be a hit!

Ingredients

8-10 jalapeno peppers

1/3 cup (100 gms) cream cheese

1/2 cup pepper jack cheese OR cheddar OR mozzarella (grated)

1/2 tsp mixed italian herbs

1/4 tsp oregano

1/3 tsp red chilli flakes

salt to taste

2 tbsp all purpose flour

1 tbsp cornflour

1/2 cup bread crumbs

Oil for frying OR Air fryer to fry

**Wear gloves while handling jalapenos, as they are super hot

Instructions

1. Begin by slicing the jalapeños in half vertically and removing the seeds, reserving them for later use. Bring water to a boil in a pan and blanch the jalapeños for 2 minutes, then immediately transfer them to cold water to stop the cooking process. Drain and thoroughly dry the jalapeños with a paper towel. Set aside.

2. In a bowl, combine cream cheese, Italian herbs, oregano, chili flakes, cheese, and the reserved jalapeño seeds according to your desired spice level. Mix well to combine.

3. Carefully spoon the cream cheese mixture into the blanched jalapeño pepper halves. Alternatively, for whole jalapeño poppers, find two similar-sized halves, stuff them with less filling, and join them together. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to set.

4. In a small bowl, combine flour and cornflour, then add 2-3 tablespoons of water and salt to form a slurry. Place breadcrumbs in a separate bowl.

5. Take one jalapeño half or whole at a time, dip them first into the cornflour mixture, then coat with breadcrumbs. Repeat the process once to ensure proper coating.

6. Repeat the coating process with the remaining jalapeños. Place them on a wire rack for 10-12 minutes to dry, or refrigerate them. Once dry, place in an air fryer at 190°C for 10-12 minutes, or deep fry until golden brown. Place on a paper towel to drain excess oil and serve hot. Enjoy the spicy and creamy goodness of jalapeño poppers!