Recipes for Canning Jalapeño Peppers: A Guide to Spicy Preservation
Are you looking to preserve the fiery flavor of jalapeño peppers? Canning is a great way to extend their shelf life and enjoy their spicy kick year-round. Whether you're a seasoned home canner or a curious beginner, these recipes will guide you through the process of creating delicious and long-lasting canned jalapeños.
1. Basic Canned Jalapeño Peppers
This simple recipe allows you to preserve the fresh flavor of jalapeños with minimal ingredients.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound jalapeño peppers, washed and stemmed
- 1 cup white vinegar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black peppercorns (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the peppers: Sterilize jars and lids. Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
- Blanch the peppers: Carefully add jalapeños to boiling water for 1-2 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and immediately plunge into an ice bath. This step helps to remove bitterness.
- Pack the jars: Fill jars with blanched jalapeños, leaving 1/2 inch headspace.
- Prepare brine: In a saucepan, combine vinegar, salt, and peppercorns (if using). Bring to a boil and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Pour brine: Carefully pour hot brine into jars, leaving 1/2 inch headspace.
- Process: Wipe jar rims clean, place lids and rings on tightly. Process jars in a boiling water bath for 15 minutes.
- Cool and store: Remove jars from water bath and allow to cool completely. Check for seal. Store in a cool, dark place.
2. Spicy Pickled Jalapeño Peppers
This recipe adds a tangy twist to the classic jalapeño with the inclusion of spices and onions.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound jalapeño peppers, washed and stemmed
- 1 cup white vinegar
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 small onion, sliced
Instructions:
- Prepare the peppers: Sterilize jars and lids. Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
- Blanch the peppers: Add jalapeños to boiling water for 1-2 minutes. Remove and plunge into an ice bath.
- Pack the jars: Fill jars with blanched jalapeños and onion slices, leaving 1/2 inch headspace.
- Prepare brine: In a saucepan, combine vinegars, water, sugar, salt, mustard seeds, black peppercorns, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a boil and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Pour brine: Carefully pour hot brine into jars, leaving 1/2 inch headspace.
- Process: Wipe jar rims clean, place lids and rings on tightly. Process jars in a boiling water bath for 15 minutes.
- Cool and store: Remove jars from water bath and allow to cool completely. Check for seal. Store in a cool, dark place.
3. Sweet and Spicy Jalapeño Relish
This relish is a perfect blend of sweet and spicy flavors that can be enjoyed as a topping or spread.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound jalapeño peppers, chopped
- 1 cup chopped red onion
- 1 cup chopped green bell pepper
- 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
- 1/2 cup white vinegar
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
- Prepare ingredients: Sterilize jars and lids. Chop all vegetables.
- Combine ingredients: In a large saucepan, combine all ingredients. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Pack jars: Fill jars with hot relish, leaving 1/2 inch headspace.
- Process: Wipe jar rims clean, place lids and rings on tightly. Process jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes.
- Cool and store: Remove jars from water bath and allow to cool completely. Check for seal. Store in a cool, dark place.
Tips for Success:
- Use fresh, ripe jalapeños: For the best flavor, use fresh and ripe peppers. Avoid using peppers with blemishes or soft spots.
- Adjust spice level: Add more or less jalapeños depending on your desired heat level.
- Use a food mill: For a smoother relish, use a food mill to remove seeds and skins.
- Store in a cool, dark place: Once canned, store your jalapeño peppers in a cool, dark place to maintain their quality.
Enjoy your homemade canned jalapeños! These recipes are a great way to add a fiery kick to your meals and enjoy the taste of fresh jalapeños all year long.