Jalapeño Powder

Homemade jalapeño powder adds a smoky, spicy kick to eggs, meats, soups, and more – perfect for any heat lover’s kitchen!

If you love adding a kick of heat to your meals, homemade jalapeño powder is a must-try!

This easy-to-make spice brings a smoky, slightly sweet heat to any dish and is a great way to preserve fresh jalapeños for long-term use.

Whether you sprinkle it over popcorn, mix it into rubs for grilled meats, or add a pinch to soups and sauces, this jalapeño powder will become a staple in your kitchen.

Tips for the Best Jalapeño Powder:

• Choose Fresh Peppers – The fresher your jalapeños, the better the flavor.
• Wear Gloves – When handling jalapeños, especially when slicing or grinding, wearing gloves can help prevent irritation from the capsaicin.
• Control the Heat – If you prefer a milder spice, remove the seeds before drying. For extra heat, leave them in!
• Try a Smoked Version – If you love smoky flavors, consider smoking the jalapeños before drying them in the oven.

Ways to Use Jalapeño Powder:

• Sprinkle on eggs, avocado toast, or roasted vegetables.
• Mix into spice blends for meats and seafood.
• Stir into soups, stews, or chili for a spicy depth of flavor.
• Blend into dips, dressings, or even homemade tortilla chips seasoning.

Ingredients & Substitutions

Jalapeños – Fresh, firm jalapeños work best for optimal flavour and heat. Try serrano peppers for extra heat or poblano peppers for a milder option. If you want a completely mild version, red or green bell peppers can be dried and ground for a sweet, peppery powder.

How to Make Jalapeño Powder

Ingredients:

• 4 jalapeños

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven – Set your oven to 200ºF.
2. Prepare the Jalapeños – Cut off the ends of each jalapeño and slice them crosswise into ⅛-inch rounds.
3. Arrange on a Baking Sheet – Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spread the jalapeño slices out in a single layer, ensuring they are not overlapping.
4. Bake Until Dried – Place the tray in the oven and bake for about 2 hours, or until the slices are completely dried and crisp. The exact time may vary depending on the thickness of your slices and the moisture content of the peppers.
5. Grind into Powder – Once the jalapeños are fully dried, transfer them to a spice grinder and blend until they reach a fine powder consistency. (Image 1 & 2)
6. Store – Keep the jalapeño powder in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. It should stay fresh for several months.