In true Hey! I Can Do That fashion, this past spring (2025) I decided I was going to plant a garden… and wow, has it outdone itself! We’ve made spaghetti sauce, pizza sauce, and now—pickled jalapeños!
It’s officially November, but my garden is still thriving. I ended up harvesting about a pound and a half of a mix of jalapeños and “Spicy Jane” peppers (they pack about the same heat level as jalapeños). We already have plenty frozen for fajitas and burgers, so I thought, let’s make some pickled peppers!
Because really, how many peppers can Peter Piper pick before he just pickles them? 😂
🥒 Gather Your Supplies
Here’s what you’ll need to make this easy pickled jalapeño brine:
- 2 cups white vinegar
- 2 cups water
- 2 tablespoons pickling salt
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 1½ pounds jalapeños or mixed hot peppers
- Garlic Bulb, about 2 each jar peeled and smashed
- Mustard seed (about ¼ teaspoon per jar)
- Half-pint or pint jars with lids and bands
- A large saucepan for making the brine
- Tongs and a canning rack (for water bath processing)
🔥 Let’s Get Pickling
- Prepare the brine:
In a large saucepan, combine 2 cups white vinegar, 2 cups water, 2 tablespoons pickling salt, and 2 teaspoons sugar.
Heat on medium until it comes to a gentle boil. - Prep the peppers:
Slice your jalapeños into rings (you can leave some whole if you prefer). Peel and lightly smash the garlic cloves. - Fill the jars:
- Place 2 garlic cloves in the bottom of each half-pint jar.
- Add ¼ teaspoon of mustard seed to each jar.
- Pack the jars tightly with sliced jalapeños.
- Add the brine:
Ladle the hot brine into each jar, leaving ½ inch of headspace at the top.
Wipe the rims clean and place your lids on snugly. - Hot water bath:
Place the jars in a boiling water bath for 15 minutes (based on my research for my area—be sure to check your local guidelines for altitude adjustments). - Cool and store:
Once processed, let your jars cool completely. You’ll hear that satisfying pop as they seal!
I ended up with three half-pint jars, which I think will make the cutest little gifts for co-workers, teachers, or neighbors.
🍔 How to Use Pickled Jalapeños
These are delicious on just about everything:
- Burgers and hot dogs
- Pizza (hello, spicy pepperoni!)
- Nachos or tacos
- Sandwiches or wraps
- Or honestly… straight from the jar for a little snack!
The heat level depends on how spicy your peppers were to begin with, but the flavor is perfectly tangy with just the right kick.
💡 Bonus Tip!
Don’t toss those pepper tops! I saved all the little ends and tips in a bowl—perfect for making my Jalapeño Simple Syrup.
👉 Jalapeno Simple Syrup
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