Jalapeno Paste

Out of many techniques for preserving jalapenos, this jalapeno paste is the simplest. This recipe isn't just about blending the peppers; it's all about infusing and enhancing the natural flavors of jalapeno.

Add a spoonful of this concentrated jalapeno to any food, and make them more exciting and flavorful!

Did you get a bunch of jalapeños from your garden or the farmer's market? This jalapeno paste recipe is just for you. 

Why You'll Love This Jalapeno Paste Recipe?

• The Flavors: If you're making authentic Mexican recipes, this jalapeno paste brings out all the bold taste required in the dishes(This recipe is an effort to preserve the jalapeno's flavors to the maximum extent).
• Convenient: It is easy to preserve, similar to roasted jalapenos and jalapeno powder. Plus, no complex techniques or fancy equipment are involved.
• Consistent Heat: Each jalapeno may differ with the heat and the flavors, so it's always a calculated recipe. But with this jalapeno paste, once you gauge the spiciness of the heat for every other spoon—there is no guessing game.
• Gift Idea: If you've made a big batch, consider filling small jars with it to give away as homemade gifts(check out this jalapeno pickle, too!). Attach a little recipe card with ideas for how to use it.

Ingredients Required for Making Jalapeno Paste

• Jalapeno Peppers: The fresh jalapenos that look large, have glassy skin, and are bulk in size are usually milder than smaller jalapenos. Also, if you want a milder heat for your paste, remove the seeds and the white membrane inside the peppers (these parts hold most of the heat).
• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are my go-to, but garlic powder works too. Garlic makes the jalapeno flavor pop in recipes like this: jalapeno garlic bread or jalapeno spaghetti.
• Olive Oil, grape seed oil, avocado oil, or any neutral-tasting oil like canola oil work well, too.
• Lime Juice: Either lime or lemon juice is good. It adds that zing!
• Sweetener: You can pick what you like for sweetness—maple syrup, honey, or regular sugar.

How To Make Jalapeno Paste?

• Prepare: First, wash the jalapeno peppers well. Pat them dry, and chop off the stems. Cut them as whole peppers for natural heat, leave some seeds and the white membrane for medium heat, and add only the flesh for low chili pepper heat. Peel and roughly chop the garlic cloves.
• Spice Level: If you want your paste to be milder, remove the seeds and the white stuff inside the peppers.
• Saute: Place a pan over medium heat and add olive oil, chopped jalapenos, and garlic. And sauté them for 5 to 10 minutes or until they turn soft, but without burning them.
• Blend: Let them cool to room temperature. Then, transfer the cooked jalapeno to a blender or food processor, along with salt, sugar, and lime juice. Blend until smooth (if needed, scrape the sides and blend some more).
• Flavor and Preserve: Add vinegar to the aromatic pepper puree mixture(it gives the paste an extra taste and helps keep it suitable for longer).
• Taste test: Adjust the seasonings if needed to suit your personal preference.  
• Store It: Store your paste in a clean jar. Make sure there aren't any air bubbles, and put the lid on tight. 

How To Use?

• Basic Use: One of the great things about this jalapeno paste is you don't have to heat it. It's ready to use right out of the jar or the freezer. Measure out the amount you need for your recipe and stir it in. It's Easy!!
• Snack Ideas: Looking for an instant crowd-pleaser? Mix the jalapeno paste with cream cheese and serve it with tortilla chips. This combo is a hit, whether it's game day or a family gathering. Want to kick your hummus? Add a spoonful of this paste and mix well.
• Creamy Pasta Sauce: Need a quick dinner fix? Stir some jalapeno paste into your regular pasta sauce. To make it creamy, add a tablespoon of flour and some milk. Throw in jalapeno paste, cream cheese, and a pinch of salt for extra flavor. Serve it over cooked pasta for a comforting dish.
• Flavorful Soups: If your soup needs extra zing, a dollop of jalapeno paste will do the trick. It melts seamlessly into hot soups, adding heat and flavor depth.
• Grilling Marinade: Planning a barbecue? Use the paste as a marinade for chicken, beef, or veggies. It's sure to give your grilling an exciting twist.
• Breakfast:  Making sandwiches? A thin layer of this paste on the bread gives a delightful, spicy, flavorful edge. Or a spoonful of jalapeno paste can make your morning burritos with black beans or scrambled eggs delicious.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

• Straining Optional: If you want a smoother paste, strain it after blending. (No worries! You can use the leftover solids in cooking.)
• Color Matters: Your jalapeno paste might darken in the fridge or freezer over time. It's generally still good to eat, but use it within the recommended time for the freshest flavor and bright green color.
• Double Up: If you're unsure how much heat you prefer, think about creating two versions: a spicy one with the seeds and inner white membrane and a milder one with the flesh of jalapenos. Just be sure to label them clearly!
• Spice Blending: You can customize this recipe by adding herbs or spices like cumin, coriander seeds, or smoked paprika. You can also add Vidalia onions(which have a mild flavor and sweet taste) and jalapeno peppers.