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Quick Sweet and Spicy Refrigerator Jalapeño Slices

sweet and spicy refrigerator jalapeño slices - featured image

A quick and easy recipe for sweet and spicy refrigerator jalapeño slices that add a bold, tangy crunch to sandwiches, tacos, or snacks. Ready in 15 minutes and perfect for last-minute gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • About 10 medium fresh jalapeños, thinly sliced (use gloves if sensitive to heat)
  • 1 cup (240 ml) white vinegar
  • 1 cup (240 ml) water
  • ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon (15 g) salt
  • 2 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
  • 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon mustard seeds (optional)

Instructions

  1. Wash and dry about 10 medium jalapeños. Cut off the stems and slice into thin rings about ⅛ inch (3 mm) thick. Be careful not to touch your face afterward.
  2. In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup white vinegar, 1 cup water, ½ cup granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon salt, 2 thinly sliced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon black peppercorns, ½ teaspoon smoked paprika, and 1 teaspoon mustard seeds. Stir gently and heat over medium until the sugar and salt dissolve, but do not boil.
  3. Place the sliced jalapeños tightly into a clean glass jar or airtight container. Pour the hot brine over the jalapeños, making sure they’re fully submerged.
  4. Let the jar cool to room temperature, then seal and refrigerate. The jalapeños will soften slightly and the flavors meld after at least 2 hours, but they’re best after 24 hours.
  5. Use as a spicy, sweet topping for burgers, sandwiches, tacos, or snack straight from the jar. They keep well in the fridge for up to 3 weeks.

Notes

Use gloves when slicing jalapeños to avoid skin irritation. Warm the brine just until sugar and salt dissolve without boiling to keep vinegar flavor balanced. Remove seeds to reduce heat if desired. Let jalapeños sit in brine at least 24 hours for best flavor. Store in airtight jar in refrigerator up to 3 weeks.

Nutrition

Keywords: jalapeño slices, refrigerator pickles, sweet and spicy, quick snack, homemade condiment, easy pickled jalapeños