Print

Crispy Pickled Jalapeño Bottle Caps Recipe

4.7 from 83 reviews

Crispy and spicy jalapeño bottle caps make for a perfect appetizer or snack. These pickled jalapeño slices are coated in a flavorful buttermilk batter with cornmeal and spices, then deep-fried to golden perfection, delivering a satisfying crunch with a kick of heat.

Ingredients

Scale

Pickled Jalapeños

  • 1 cup pickled jalapeño slices, drained and patted dry

Batter

  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup cornmeal
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Other

  • Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pickled Jalapeños: Drain the pickled jalapeño slices thoroughly and pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps the batter stick better and results in a crispier fry.
  2. Make the Batter: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, all-purpose flour, cornmeal, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if using. The batter should be smooth and slightly thick to properly coat the jalapeño slices.
  3. Heat the Oil: In a deep skillet or frying pan, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Use enough oil to submerge the jalapeño slices for even frying.
  4. Batter the Jalapeños: Dip each jalapeño slice into the batter, ensuring it is fully coated. Let any excess batter drip off before placing into the hot oil.
  5. Fry the Jalapeño Caps: Carefully place the battered jalapeño slices into the hot oil in batches, avoiding overcrowding. Fry for about 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
  6. Drain and Serve: Remove the fried jalapeño caps with a slotted spoon and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil. Serve warm as a spicy snack or appetizer.

Notes

  • For an extra spicy kick, leave the seeds intact or add more cayenne pepper in the batter.
  • Use fresh buttermilk for best flavor and texture in the batter.
  • Be sure the oil temperature stays steady at 350°F to ensure crispy, not greasy, jalapeño caps.
  • This recipe is best enjoyed immediately after frying for optimal crispiness.
  • You can serve these with ranch dressing or a spicy aioli for dipping.

Keywords: jalapeño bottle caps, fried jalapeño slices, pickled jalapeños, spicy appetizers, crispy snacks