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Smoked Pickled Jalapeños

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These Smoked Pickled Jalapeños combine the best of both worlds—rich, smoky flavor from the grill and the tangy, spicy kick of pickled peppers. They’re perfect for topping burgers, tacos, sandwiches, or adding to charcuterie boards.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb fresh jalapeños
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 cup white vinegar
  • 1 cup water
  • 2 tbsp sugar
  • 1 tbsp kosher salt
  • 2 cloves garlic, smashed
  • 1 tsp black peppercorns
  • ½ tsp mustard seeds (optional)
  • ½ tsp coriander seeds (optional)

Instructions

1. Smoke the Jalapeños:

  1. Preheat your Traeger or smoker to 225°F using applewood or hickory pellets for a mild smoky flavor.
  2. Rinse the jalapeños and pat dry. Toss them lightly with olive oil.
  3. Place the whole jalapeños directly on the grill grates and smoke for 45-60 minutes, until they soften slightly and absorb the smoky flavor.

2. Slice the Peppers:

  1. Remove the jalapeños from the smoker and let them cool slightly.
  2. Slice into rings (or leave whole for extra heat). Remove seeds if you want a milder spice level.

3. Make the Pickling Brine:

  1. In a small saucepan, combine vinegar, water, sugar, salt, garlic, peppercorns, mustard seeds, and coriander seeds.
  2. Bring to a gentle boil, then remove from heat.

4. Pickle the Jalapeños:

  1. Pack the sliced smoked jalapeños into a sterilized glass jar.
  2. Pour the hot brine over the jalapeños, ensuring they are fully submerged.
  3. Let the jar cool to room temperature, then seal and refrigerate.

5. Rest & Enjoy!

  • Let the jalapeños pickle for at least 24 hours before using (flavors improve after a few days).
  • Store in the fridge for up to 3 months.

Serving Ideas:

 

  • Add to nachos, tacos, or burgers.
  • Mix into coleslaw, potato salad, or deviled eggs for a tangy twist.
  • Use the pickling brine for cocktails or marinades!

 

Notes

  • Want them hotter? Use red jalapeños or serrano peppers.
  • Milder flavor? Reduce the smoking time to 30 minutes.
  • Make them shelf-stable: Process the jars in a hot water bath for 10 minutes.