Mexican Pickled Jalapenos Recipe

Spicing things up in the kitchen has never been easier – this pickled jalapeño recipe is my go-to for when I crave a zesty kick that transforms anything from tacos to cocktails into an unforgettable culinary adventure!

My affection for the zesty and spicy Mexican pickled jalapeños knows no bounds. They seriously take any dish up a few notches.

These fiery, vibrant condiments are made with fresh jalapeños, vinegar, and garlic, and are seasoned with really tasty (and antioxidant-rich) herbs like oregano and cumin. You also can’t forget the onions and carrots, which round out this delicious dish.

Put simply, if you’re not eating these with your meals, you’re missing out.

Mexican Pickled Jalapenos Recipe Ingredients

• Jalapeños: Rich in vitamin C and capsaicin, these peppers add a spicy kick.
• White vinegar: Provides acidity and acts as a natural preservative.
• Garlic: Offers immune-boosting properties and a robust flavor.
• Sugar: Balances acidity with a touch of sweetness.
• Carrot: Adds natural sweetness and a good source of beta-carotene.
• Onion: Adds depth of flavor and packs essential antioxidants.
• Oregano: Infuses a hint of earthy, aromatic flavor.
• Cumin seeds: Contribute a warm, nutty flavor and digestive benefits.

Mexican Pickled Jalapenos Recipe Ingredient Quantities

• 1 pound fresh jalapeños, sliced into rings
• 1 cup white vinegar
• 1 cup water
• 2 tablespoons kosher salt
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 3 cloves garlic, peeled and smashed
• 1 bay leaf
• 1/2 teaspoon oregano (preferably Mexican oregano)
• 1/4 teaspoon black peppercorns
• 1/4 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 large carrot, peeled and sliced into rounds
• 1 medium white onion, thinly sliced

How to Make this Mexican Pickled Jalapenos Recipe

1. Slice the vegetables for the recipe: cut the jalapeños into rings, the carrot into rounds, and the onion into thin slices. Kept a few slices of each vegetable to the side for garnish.

2. In a medium-size saucepan, mix the white vinegar, water, kosher salt, and sugar. Stir vigorously to ensure that the sugar and salt are completely dissolved.

3. Add the smashed garlic cloves, bay leaf, oregano, black peppercorns, and cumin seeds to the saucepan.

4. Heat the mixture over medium heat until it reaches a boil, letting the flavors meld together.

5. When the water reaches a rolling boil, add the jalapeño slices, carrot rounds, and onion slices to the saucepan.

6. Lower the heat and let it simmer. Cook for approximately 5 minutes, or until the jalapeños don an understated olive green color.

7. Take the saucepan off the heat and allow the mixture to cool for a short time.

8. In a clean jar, tightly pack the jalapeños, carrots, and onions, and then pour in the brine, making sure all the vegetables are under the surface.

9. Tightly seal the jar with a lid and allow it to reach room temperature.

10. Allowing the flavors to develop means you must refrigerate them for at least 24 hours before serving. After that, you can serve them up in many forms. Use them as an ingredient in the margaritas we talked about before or toss them on burgers, hot dogs, or nachos.

Mexican Pickled Jalapenos Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Cutting board
2. Chef’s knife
3. Medium-size saucepan
4. Wooden spoon or silicone spatula for stirring
5. Measuring cups and spoons
6. Jar with a tight-sealing lid
7. Tongs or slotted spoon (optional for handling hot vegetables)

FAQ

• Can I use another type of vinegar instead of white vinegar?Certainly, apple cider vinegar is a good substitute. However, it might make the pickled jalapeños taste a bit different than normal.
• How long do these pickled jalapeños last?A sealed jar in the refrigerator can maintain the freshness of the contents for as much as 2 months.
• Is it necessary to use Mexican oregano?Although Mexican oregano is favored for its unique flavor, you can substitute regular oregano in its place if you don’t have any on hand.
• Can I make this recipe less spicy?Certainly! To minimize the spiciness of jalapeños, take out the seeds.
• What can I do with the leftover pickling liquid?Employ it as a meat marinade, or use it in salad dressings; it can also be added to cocktails, for a potent kick.
• Can I add more vegetables to this recipe?Certainly. You are able to add in additional veggies such as cauliflower florets or bell peppers for extra variety.
• Do I need to sterilize the jars?Even though it isn’t necessary to sterilize refrigerated pickles, it is certainly good practice to ensure that the jar is clean so that you don’t risk spoilage.

Mexican Pickled Jalapenos Recipe Substitutions and Variations

When kosher salt is not available, you can exchange sea salt or table salt for it in the same amounts. Just know that crystal size does vary, so be mindful of that when you’re measuring.
You can substitute white vinegar with cider vinegar or rice vinegar. They will give a slightly different taste to whatever dish you’re making, but they’re probably the closest alternatives.
Instead of a white onion, you can use a shallot for a milder flavor.
Brown sugar and honey can substitute for sugar. However, they will alter the color and flavor of the food.
You can use crushed red pepper flakes in place of black peppercorns if you want more heat.

Pro Tips

1. Select Fresh, Firm Veggies: Use the freshest jalapeños, carrots, and onions you can find. Fresh vegetables will maintain their crunch and flavor better through the pickling process.