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Quick Spicy Pickled Jalapeños

quick spicy pickled jalapeños - featured image

A fast and easy recipe for spicy pickled jalapeños ready in just 24 hours, perfect for adding a tangy kick to tacos, sandwiches, and more.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1012 medium fresh jalapeños, sliced into thin rings
  • 1 cup (240 ml) white vinegar
  • 1 cup (240 ml) water
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon kosher salt
  • 23 garlic cloves, peeled and smashed
  • 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 bay leaf (optional)

Instructions

  1. Rinse the jalapeños under cold water and pat dry. Slice each pepper into thin rings about ⅛ inch (3 mm) thick. Remove seeds if less heat is desired. (5 minutes)
  2. In a small saucepan, combine white vinegar, water, sugar, and kosher salt. Warm gently over medium heat, stirring until sugar and salt dissolve completely. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. (5-7 minutes)
  3. Place the sliced jalapeños into a sterilized glass jar. Add smashed garlic cloves, black peppercorns, and optional red pepper flakes and bay leaf. (3 minutes)
  4. Pour the warm brine over the jalapeños until fully covered. Press down gently to remove air bubbles, leaving about ½ inch headspace. (2 minutes)
  5. Seal the jar tightly and place it on the counter at room temperature away from direct sunlight. Let it sit for at least 24 hours to develop flavor. (24 hours)
  6. After 24 hours, refrigerate the jar. The jalapeños will continue to mellow and intensify in flavor over the next few days. Store refrigerated for up to 3 weeks.

Notes

Use fresh, firm jalapeños for best crunch. Warm brine helps dissolve sugar and salt but is not mandatory. Remove seeds to reduce heat. Letting pickles sit longer than 24 hours intensifies flavor. Store refrigerated after initial 24-hour room temperature pickling. Leftover brine can be used in dressings or marinades.

Nutrition

Keywords: pickled jalapeños, quick pickles, spicy pickled peppers, jalapeño recipe, easy pickling, refrigerator pickles