Zesty Jalapeño Salt is a flavorful seasoning that adds a spicy kick to a variety of dishes. It’s perfect for sprinkling on meats, vegetables, popcorn, or even rimming cocktail glasses. Here’s a simple recipe to make your own zesty jalapeño salt at home.
Zesty Jalapeño Salt Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 cup coarse sea salt or kosher salt
- 1-2 fresh jalapeños (adjust based on your heat preference)
- 1 tablespoon lime zest (freshly grated)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Jalapeños:
- If you prefer a milder flavor, remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeños. For more heat, leave them intact.
- Finely chop the jalapeños.
2. Combine Ingredients:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the coarse salt, chopped jalapeños, lime zest, garlic powder, and onion powder (if using). Mix well to ensure the jalapeños and zest are evenly distributed throughout the salt.
3. Dry the Mixture:
- Spread the mixture out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Preheat your oven to the lowest setting (around 170°F or 75°C) and place the baking sheet in the oven.
- Allow the mixture to dry for about 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the jalapeños are completely dried and the salt is fragrant.
4. Cool and Store:
- Once dried, remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the mixture cool completely.
- Transfer the zesty jalapeño salt to an airtight container or spice jar for storage.
Tips:
- Storage: Store the jalapeño salt in a cool, dry place. It should last for several months.
- Usage: Use it to season grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or as a finishing salt for dishes like tacos, guacamole, or even popcorn.
- Adjusting Heat: You can adjust the number of jalapeños based on your heat preference. For a milder version, consider using roasted red peppers instead.
Enjoy your homemade zesty jalapeño salt!