Jalapeno Popcorn
If you like spicy foods, you have to try this classic jalapeno popcorn recipe that's made in so many of the US military's flying squadrons. There are many variations of it, as it’s sometimes said your coworkers judge you based on your popcorn than your flying skills. Use this recipe as a base to practice at home or make it for your next movie or game night!
The Popcorn
This snack is meant to be made in a popcorn machine. I’m not quite that fancy, so we’ll be making a stovetop version today. It makes a lot less too, as we’re only feeding a couple people rather than a squadron.
If you do make this in a large popcorn machine, I highly suggest searching “jalapeno popcorn” in r/airforce for tips. There are a ton of ideas for how to make yours stand out too.
Pickled Jalapenos
There’s much debate about what style of peppers, let alone jalapenos are best for this popcorn. I’ll be using pickled jalapenos today, and just the peppers themselves. If you want to make them a little spicier and tangy, you can add some of the brine too, or add more peppers. My recipe does have a slow burn that stays with you (likely because we infuse the oil with peppers).
Popcorn Toppings
The original recipe uses Flavacol seasoning, but unfortunately I haven’t found it locally. I decided to use something more accessible to me, so I used table salt and some Kernel Season’s butter seasoning (not an ad, but could be). I also added a little melted butter to make sure it had a fresher, brighter flavor and to help the seasoning stick.
Variations
There are many versions of this jalapeno popcorn recipe, each a way to make it special. After you’ve perfected this base recipe, feel free to change things up! Some versions include adding 2-3 slices of chopped bacon to the pan with the oil before adding the jalapenos. Some add extra seasonings like a cajun spice or use Lawrey’s Seasoning Salt as their salt. Some go so far as to grow ghost peppers themselves to make this recipe really burn.
Popcorn of the Month Recipes
I’m a huge popcorn fan, so I’ve decided to try making a different flavored popcorn each month. Be sure to check out my Muddy Buddies Popcorn recipe and my tips on How to make a Popcorn Snack Board. Be sure you’re subscribed so you don’t miss any future recipes!
Jalapeno Popcorn
Makes about 4 servings or 2 large servings
This spicy pickled jalapeno pepper popcorn recipe is a staple of military flying squadrons. Try it at home for your next movie or game night!
Ingredients
2 Tbsp oil (vegetable or other high-temp)
⅔ cup popcorn kernels
⅓ cup pickled jalapenos, drained
2 Tbsp butter, melted
Salt
Kernel Season’s butter flavored seasoning
Method
Drain jalapenos on a couple of paper towels. Set aside while you prep the oil.
Heat oil in a large pan with a lid over medium-high heat. Add 2 popcorn kernels to your pan. Once these pop, scoop them out; your oil is ready!
Carefully add your peppers to your pan–they’ll spatter. Add lid and shake your pan to stir.
Once the jalapenos are half brown, half green, add your popcorn kernels. Return the lid and shake every 30-60 seconds to keep from burning.
Once your popcorn begins to pop, shake continuously until popcorn slows. Remove from heat and leave the lid on until popping stops.
Pour into a large bowl.
Top with melted butter, salt, and butter seasoning, to taste. Gently shake or toss to combine. Add more seasoning as needed.
Enjoy within a couple of hours
