Jalapeño Poppers: A Delicious and Easy-to-Make Recipe Perfect for Air Frying
Jalapeño poppers, with their crispy exterior and creamy interior, are a party favourite. Air frying them makes the process quicker, healthier, and without compromising on taste. In this article, we'll explore a foolproof recipe for jalapeño poppers, ready in no time with the help of an air fryer.
Ingredients
- 12 fresh jalapeños
- 225 grams of cream cheese, softened
- 150 grams of cheddar cheese, grated
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 100 grams of breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- Optional: diced bacon or chorizo for extra flavour
Instructions
- Prepare the Jalapeños: Wash and pat dry the jalapeños. Carefully slice each one in half lengthwise. Remove seeds and membranes if you prefer less heat. Set aside.
- Make the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, cheddar cheese, garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. For a meatier version, you can stir in some cooked and diced bacon or chorizo.
- Stuff the Jalapeños: Using a spoon, fill each jalapeño half generously with the cheese mixture. Press firmly to ensure the filling is well packed.
- Coat with Breadcrumbs: Mix the breadcrumbs with olive oil in a shallow dish. Roll each stuffed jalapeño in the breadcrumb mixture until coated evenly.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 200°C and let it preheat for about 5 minutes.
- Cook the Poppers: Place the jalapeño poppers in the air fryer basket, being careful not to overcrowd. Cook for 7-10 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. You may need to do this in batches, depending on the size of your air fryer.
- Serve: Remove from air fryer and let them cool for a couple of minutes. Serve warm with a side of sour cream or your favourite dipping sauce.
Tips for Perfect Jalapeño Poppers
- Choose fresh, firm jalapeños for the best texture.
- If you're sensitive to heat, wear gloves while handling jalapeños to avoid irritation.
- Experiment with different cheeses such as mozzarella or gouda for varied flavours.
- Add herbs like cilantro or parsley to the filling for a burst of freshness.
Conclusion
Jalapeño poppers are a delightful snack that can be enjoyed by anyone who loves a bit of spice. This air fryer recipe not only makes them easier to prepare, but also keeps them on the healthier side without sacrificing the rich, creamy flavour. Perfect for gatherings or a simple appetizer, try this recipe today and watch them disappear!