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Easy Small-Batch Canned Jalapenos Refrigerator Recipe

refrigerator canned jalapeños - featured image

A simple, no-canning-experience-needed recipe for refrigerator pickled jalapeños that are crisp, tangy, and perfectly balanced in heat. Ready in 24 hours and lasts for months in the fridge.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup distilled white vinegar (5% acidity)
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 tablespoon kosher salt (Diamond Crystal recommended; reduce to 2 teaspoons if using table salt)
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 810 fresh jalapeños (firm, bright green)
  • 45 garlic cloves (smashed)
  • 1 teaspoon black peppercorns (optional)
  • 1 bay leaf

Instructions

  1. Wash and dry your jar and lid thoroughly.
  2. Rinse jalapeños, pat dry, and slice off stems. Slice crosswise into ¼-inch rings (or lengthwise strips). For milder heat, remove seeds and membranes; for maximum heat, leave them in.
  3. Layer sliced jalapeños, smashed garlic cloves, peppercorns, and bay leaf into the jar. Leave about ½ inch of headspace.
  4. In a small saucepan, combine vinegar, water, salt, and sugar. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring to dissolve salt and sugar. Boil for 30 seconds, then remove from heat.
  5. Pour hot brine over jalapeños in the jar, covering completely. Tap jar gently to release air bubbles; add more brine if needed.
  6. Wipe rim clean, screw on lid tightly, and let cool on counter for about 30 minutes.
  7. Refrigerate. Wait at least 24 hours before opening for best flavor. Flavors improve after 48 hours and are perfect after a week.

Notes

For crunchier peppers, let brine cool 2-3 minutes before pouring. Use kosher or pickling salt to avoid metallic taste. Label jars with date. Leftover brine can be reused as marinade or for pickling other vegetables.

Nutrition

Keywords: refrigerator pickled jalapeños, small batch, easy pickling, homemade jalapeños, no canning, quick pickles, spicy condiment