Jalapeño poppers

Jalapeño poppers are a popular appetizer made from fresh jalapeño peppers that are halved, seeded, and typically stuffed with a mixture of cheese, sometimes with added spices or bacon, then breaded and deep-fried or baked until golden and crispy. Originating in the United States, particularly associated with Tex-Mex cuisine and bar food culture, they have become a staple at parties, sports events, and casual dining establishments.

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🍽️ Nutrition at a glance

Jalapeño poppers are generally high in fat and calories due to the cheese filling and frying method, with a single popper containing roughly 70-100 calories. They provide a good amount of protein and calcium from the cheese, along with vitamin C and capsaicin from the jalapeño pepper itself.

Nutrition breakdown

Calories	250 kcal
Protein	8 g
Carbs	10 g
Fat	20 g
Fiber	2 g
Sugar	2 g
Sodium	450 mg
Calcium	120 mg
Iron	1.2 mg
Potassium	180 mg
Vitamin A	350 IU
Vitamin C	15 mg
Vitamin K	12 mcg
Magnesium	25 mg
Phosphorus	110 mg

Per 3 pieces (84 g) · estimated, varies by recipe

💡 What's interesting

Culturally, jalapeño poppers represent a creative fusion of spicy Mexican peppers with American comfort food, often adapted with variations like bacon-wrapping or different cheeses. Nutritionally, the capsaicin in jalapeños is known for its potential metabolism-boosting properties, though this is often offset by the dish's high-fat preparation.