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Zesty Jalapeño Salt

A vibrant and flavorful seasoning that elevates dishes with a perfect blend of spicy jalapeños and coarse sea salt.
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time1 hour 40 minutes
Course: Condiment, Snack
Cuisine: Mexican, Tex-Mex
Keyword: DIY Spice Mix, Flavor Enhancer, Homemade Seasoning, Spicy Salt, Zesty Jalapeño Salt
Servings: 10 servings
Calories: 10kcal

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 2 pieces fresh jalapeños Opt for fresh, firm jalapeños for the best flavor.
  • 1/2 cup coarse sea salt or kosher salt Provides a satisfying crunch.
  • 1 tsp lemon zest or lime zest Adds a burst of citrusy brightness.
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder or smoked paprika Optional for added depth.

Instructions

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 200°F (95°C).
  • Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
  • Place thinly sliced jalapeños onto the tray, ensuring they’re spread out evenly.

Baking

  • Bake the jalapeños for 1 to 1.5 hours, flipping halfway through to ensure even drying.
  • They're done when crisp and no longer moist.

Cooling and Grinding

  • Remove the tray from the oven and let the jalapeños cool completely.
  • Using a spice grinder or mortar and pestle, grind the cooled jalapeños into flakes or powder.

Mixing and Storing

  • Combine the crushed jalapeños with coarse sea salt and lemon or lime zest in a bowl.
  • If using, add garlic powder or smoked paprika.
  • Transfer mix into a sealed jar and store in a cool, dry place for up to 2 months.

Notes

For less heat, remove the seeds before baking. Experiment with adding dried herbs for additional flavor combinations. Gift the zesty salt in a decorative jar for a personal touch.