Jalapeno popcorn

Meet the most enchanting way of enjoying the spicy popcorn-Jalapeno popcorn. This is mildly spicy, flavorful, soft, and crunchy.  It's better than the regular popcorn we have been eating.

This jalapeno popcorn is perfectly spiced to make the family movie time or your game day more delightful. The refreshing combo of flavors and tastes meets here at the right spot.

Furthermore, it's super easy to make for a crowd. Also turns out to be an excellent holiday gift to surprise your friends or relatives like this jalapeno peanut brittle.

About this recipe

With a few simple ingredients and a few minutes of your time, create a bountiful bowl of deliciousness that everyone falls in love with.

Like you, I loved creamy buttery popcorn until I discovered this jalapeno popcorn. Tastes creamy, and buttery, bundled with a hint of heat that pleasingly tingles your sensation.

Jalapeno popcorn is an excellent treat for family movie nights or a gameday gathering, like our jalapeno poppers without cream cheese, or jalapeno pinwheel.

Ingredients for jalapeno popcorn

Butter. Butter makes the popcorn creamy and tastes decadent. I find butter and popcorn are inseparable and create an ultimate combo. But you may substitute it with coconut oil, which can also be an excellent vegan option. 

Corn kernels. These are extremely handy and pantry-stable. Suitable to store at room temperature. Plus, it's economical when comparing them with the store-bought readymade popcorn pouches. You may find them in the whole food aisle.

Jalapeno. Fresh jalapenos are great; however, if you have roasted or frozen jalapenos, feel free to use them. On the other hand, pickled jalapenos are also a perfect option and vary in taste slightly, but they are a true entertainer and a pantry staple variation.

When you use pickled jalapenos, remove the moisture content with the kitchen towels before sauteing. we will see how to do it briefly in the following.

How to make Jalapeno popcorn?

Slice jalapeno. Slice the jalapenos evenly to a quarter-inch of thickness. Leave some seeds to choose your personal heat preference.  I have removed 90% of the sources and left 10%; this way, I can retain most flavors with minimal heat.

If you use jalapeno pickles, place them in the kitchen towel to remove the excess moisture. And keep them ready.

Place the pan over medium heat. Place a heavy bottom pan over the stovetop. I prefer using my cast iron Dutch oven. Each seed puffs up when the corn kernels pop and needs ample space. For 2 servings of popcorn, I would prefer 4 quarts size of cast iron deep pan.

A heavy bottom pan ensures the spreading of even heat throughout the bottom and thereby helps to achieve soft jalapeno popcorns. The uneven heat flow may end up in burnt or hard popcorn.

Seasoning. Add butter and allow it to melt. Toss sliced jalapenos and sauté until the jalapeno turns dry.

Add corn and salt. And corn kernels, salt. Use a spoon to combine them well. Close it with a lid. 

Start popping. Turn stove to medium to low heat. Within 2-3 minutes, the corn will start popping. Lift the pan and shake it up sideways in regular intervals for an even heat distribution. 

Wear gloves as a precaution as the steam may escape on the sides. The process may sound cumbersome while reading, but it's like a breeze when making.

Remove from the heat until the popping sound stops. It would take 3-4 minutes to pop the corn kernels completely.

Serve.  Transfer jalapeno popcorn to serving bowls and serve warm. Drizzle melted butter if necessary. The jalapeno flavors are mild and may not need any other seasonings.

Storing idea

To store.  This does not store well at room temperature, unlike the classic buttery popcorn. I would strongly recommend consuming the jalapeno popcorn within 3-4 hours of making it. 

To warm. You may gently warm up in the microwave before serving.

Make ahead tips

If you plan to make it beforehand, prepare the jalapeno butter sauce and pop the corn kernels whenever needed. Believe me; this will not take massive time of yours; make your guests stand nearby and have a chit-chat. Boom!! delightful, delicious jalapeno spiced popcorn is ready in a blink of an eye.

Variations

For more heat. Double up or increase the quantity of the jalapeno for the rich heat in this spiced popcorn.

Green bell pepper. If you want to make the heat subtle and retain all the beautiful peppery flavors,  substitute jalapeno with green pepper. 

Habanero. Substitute Jalapeno with habanero for more heat. 

Both habanero and green bell pepper variations are my delights and I keep switching between them depending on the outdoor weather and family’s request.

Ranch seasoning Mix. Try making another famous jalapeno ranch popcorn. To simplify this, add 1 teaspoon of dry ranch seasoning mix while adding corn kernels to the pan.

Cheddar. Pour melted cheddar cheese into a creamy topping.

Cajun spice. Jalapeno tastes incredible with Cajun spice. Try to infuse these two flavors and treat yourself luxuriously.

Hot and sweet. Melt three tablespoons of light brown sugar with 1 tablespoon of butter. And toss it over jalapeno popcorn. This hot and sweet combo can bring up lots of appreciation all over.

Can I make this spicy popcorn in the microwave?

Yes, this is a reliable recipe for microwaves as well. Use a microwave-safe bowl and follow the same recipe. Microwave for up to 3 minutes until the popping sound stops.

Recommended tools for making this recipe

Heavy-bottomed Pot: The heavy bottom ensures even heat distribution and a great pop every time!

Air-tight Container: Shake your popcorn with that fiery jalapeno seasoning. It’s a fun way to ensure each kernel gets coated with spice.

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