Sauteed jalapeno

This sauteed jalapeno pepper is a simple dish that's packed with loads of flavor. Excellent to serve as a side dish, throw in a salad, spread over pizza, or layer the sandwich. Every bite of this pan-fried jalapeno is high on flavors with the smack of heat that bursts in your mouth.

If you are avoiding handling jalapeños, this seared jalapeno is a perfect recipe to start with. Make this in no time and also that suits your heat tolerance.

How do you cook fresh jalapenos? This sauteed jalapeno is one of the simple and essential recipes of jalapeños to cook over the stove top. However, the choice of upgrading and enhancing are unlimited. We will discuss the delicious variations at the bottom of this post.

Can you saute jalapeno? Yes absolutely. The wholesome flavors of the jalapeño, olive oil, and dried oregano make this dish incredibly tasty. The crisp and crunchy texture of the jalapeño makes this a versatile side dish.

The ingredients for Sauteed jalapeno

Jalapeno. Jalapeño’s heat is concentrated on the center rib(the white membrane) and over the seeds. You may control the heat with the quantity of the seeds and the rib. If you prefer the sautéed jalapeños to be hot and spicy, slice the jalapeños along with the seeds. On the other hand, if you want a side dish with subtle heat, remove the seeds and the rib. 

Olive oil. Olive oil is my choice, however, any neutral-flavored oil(like canola oil, or vegetable oil) that does not contradict the natural flavors of the jalapeno works ideal for this pan-seared jalapeno.

Dried oregano. Dried oregano or any other herb that you have in handy works. If given a choice, thyme or parsley compliments the authentic flavors of jalapeno. 

Black pepper. Jalapeno is already hot, and do we need black pepper too? Half a teaspoon of freshly crushed black pepper gives a rich and palatable kick.

How to make

First and foremost, if you are a beginner or have sensitive skin, wear gloves before proceeding to avoid jalapeno hands. 

Slice the jalapeno lengthwise into thin strips. If you prefer this sauteed jalapeno to be spicy, slice the jalapeno along with the seeds. If not, cut gently, leaving the seeds and the rib.

In a mixing bowl, add the jalapeno slices, half a teaspoon of olive oil, salt, and crushed black pepper. Toss until jalapeno slices are evenly coated.

Place a pan over medium heat, add half a teaspoon of olive oil, and toss jalapeno.

And saute for 4-5 minutes or until the edges wilt and turn brown. 

Remove from the heat and serve!!

How to serve sauteed jalapeno?

As a side dish. This pan-fried jalapeno is perfect for grilled meat like shrimp, steak, fish, or chicken. 

As a condiment. Apart from serving this dish as a side, you can add them as condiments to enrich any dish's heat and value, like any soup or chili recipe.  

As an ingredient. Spread as a layer in a taco or burrito. The crunch and the taste it provides are incredible. Nachos, 

As chopped. Making scrambled eggs? Add them as a chopped couple of tablespoons and witness the transformation yourself. In the same way, choices are endless, combined with guacamole or salsa.

Burger or sandwich. This sauteed jalapeno for a burger is a fabulous combo. Place a layer of jalapeno over the patty and enjoy!!. Furthermore, it is also good to sprinkle over pizza or place them in the sandwich. 

How to store?

Refrigerate. Store the leftover sauteed jalapeno in an airtight container for about three days.

Freezer. Cooked jalapenos are great freezer-friendly. You can store them for about 4 months in a freezer-safe container or bags.

To thaw. Place the jalapenos overnight in the refrigerator or reheat them gently in the microwave in 30-second intervals until they turn warm.

Can you cook jalapeños on the stove?

Yes, you can. To be precise, it's one of the easy and convenient methods of cooking the jalapeno. This sauteed jalapeno provides detailed instructions for sauteing jalapeno in a pan over the stove. 

Does sauteing jalapeños make them hotter?

It depends on many factors, like the kind of jalapeno, the temperature at which we cook, and the duration of the cooking time. 

The heat-causing agent in jalapeno is called capsaicin; when cooking in low heat, it melts evenly and coats the jalapeno to make it feel hotter. On the other hand, the high temperature and cooking for a longer time, make it mellow down and provide a subtle heat. 

Recommended tools for sauteed jalapeno

Saute pan. A heavy-bottomed pan is best for evenly distributing the heat. It should also be easy to clean up after cooking.

Measuring spoons. Easy-to-handle tools are a must in the kitchen.

Spatula. Works great for stirring and sauteing.

Printable recipe card