Fermented Jalapeño Honey

Fermented jalapeño honey is a fantastic way to add some spice to your dishes while enjoying the health benefits of raw honey and jalapeños. This unique condiment can elevate everything from tacos to cheese platters, making it perfect for gatherings or intimate dinners alike. Its sweet and spicy flavor profile makes it a standout addition to your culinary repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe requires minimal ingredients and simple steps, perfect for beginners.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of sweet honey and spicy jalapeños creates a delightful balance that enhances various dishes.
• Versatile Uses: Use it as a glaze, dressing, or dip. It pairs well with meats, vegetables, and cheeses.
• Health Benefits: Raw honey is known for its natural antioxidants and antibacterial properties, while jalapeños can boost metabolism.
• Unique Gift Idea: Homemade fermented jalapeño honey makes a thoughtful gift for food lovers in your life.

Tools and Preparation

To make fermented jalapeño honey, having the right tools is essential for success. These tools will help ensure the fermentation process goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Wide mouth pint-sized mason jar
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Mixing spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Wide mouth pint-sized mason jar: This allows easy access when adding or mixing ingredients and ensures proper fermentation.
• Sharp knife: A sharp knife makes slicing through the peppers quick and easy, reducing prep time.
• Cutting board: A stable surface helps you chop safely and efficiently.
• Mixing spoon: A sturdy spoon is necessary for ensuring that the jalapeños are well coated in honey.

Ingredients

• 5-6 jalapeño peppers (approximately)
• 1 cup raw honey (or more as needed)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Fermented Jalapeño Honey

Step 1: Prepare the Jalapeños

1. Slice the jalapeños, removing some or all of the seeds and ribs if desired to control heat level.

Step 2: Fill the Jar

1. Place the sliced jalapeños into a wide mouth pint-sized mason jar until it is 1/2-3/4 full.

Step 3: Add Honey

1. Pour enough raw honey over the sliced jalapeños to completely cover them. Ensure they are well coated.

Step 4: Fermenting Process

1. Screw the cap on tightly and flip the jar to coat all of the jalapeños with honey.
2. Loosen the lid on the jar slightly to allow gases to escape.
3. Place the jar in a dark spot, flipping it daily.

Step 5: Check Fermentation

1. Allow the mixture to ferment for about one to two weeks. You may notice bubbles forming.
2. It’s ready when the honey has become much runnier in consistency. Enjoy!

How to Serve Fermented Jalapeño Honey

Fermented jalapeño honey is not only a unique condiment but also a versatile addition to various dishes. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this spicy-sweet treat.

Drizzle Over Tacos

• Add a spoonful of fermented jalapeño honey on top of tacos for a delightful kick that complements meats and vegetables alike.

Glaze for Grilled Meats

• Use it as a glaze for grilled chicken or pork, enhancing the flavor with a sweet and spicy finish.

Salad Dressing Enhancement

• Mix a bit into your salad dressing for an unexpected zing that will elevate your leafy greens.

Cheese Pairing

• Serve it alongside cheese platters, especially with creamy cheeses like brie or goat cheese, to create a delicious sweet-and-spicy contrast.

In Cocktails

• Incorporate it into cocktails for an interesting twist, adding both sweetness and heat to beverages like margaritas or spicy mules.

Marinade Ingredient

• Blend it into marinades for meats or veggies, allowing the flavors to infuse before cooking for added depth.

How to Perfect Fermented Jalapeño Honey

Creating the best fermented jalapeño honey takes a little attention and care. Here are some tips to help you achieve perfection.

• Choose Fresh Jalapeños: Using fresh, firm jalapeños will ensure the best flavor and texture in your ferment.
• Experiment with Honey Types: Different types of raw honey can add unique flavors. Try wildflower or clover honey for variety.
• Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer less heat, remove more seeds and ribs from the jalapeños before adding them to the jar.
• Monitor Fermentation: Check daily to see how the fermentation is progressing; you’ll want it to bubble slightly but not overflow.
• Store Properly: Keep your ferment in a dark place with consistent temperatures to promote optimal fermentation.
• Taste Test: After about a week, taste your fermented jalapeño honey. You can let it ferment longer if you desire a stronger flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Fermented Jalapeño Honey

Fermented jalapeño honey pairs wonderfully with many side dishes. Here are some great options to serve alongside this spicy condiment.

1. Cornbread
   A slice of warm cornbread is perfect for drizzling with fermented jalapeño honey, giving it an extra layer of flavor.

2. Grilled Vegetables
   Charred veggies like zucchini or bell peppers complement the sweetness and heat of the honey beautifully.

3. Potato Wedges
   Crispy potato wedges make an excellent dipping side when paired with fermented jalapeño honey.

4. Rice Pilaf
   The mild flavors of rice pilaf serve as a great base for the spicy notes of the honey.

5. Black Bean Salad
   A refreshing black bean salad topped with fermented jalapeño honey adds zest and excitement to your meal.

6. Coleslaw
   Adding this honey gives coleslaw an unexpected dimension, balancing out its creaminess with spice.

7. Nachos
   Drizzle over cheesy nachos for an exciting twist that will delight your taste buds.

8. Stuffed Peppers
   Pair stuffed peppers with this spicy condiment for an extra punch of flavor in every bite.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making fermented jalapeño honey can be a breeze, but there are common pitfalls that can affect your results.

• Ignoring the ratio: Using too few jalapeños or too much honey can lead to an imbalance. Always aim for a 1:1 ratio for the best fermentation.
• Sealing too tightly: If your jar is sealed too tightly, gas buildup can cause it to break. Loosening the lid allows gases to escape and prevents mishaps.
• Choosing the wrong container: Not all jars are suitable for fermentation. Use a wide-mouth mason jar that can hold both jalapeños and honey comfortably.
• Neglecting daily flips: Skipping the daily flip means uneven fermentation. Make it a habit to flip the jar each day for uniform results.
• Using pasteurized honey: Pasteurized honey lacks the natural enzymes needed for fermentation. Always opt for raw honey to achieve the desired outcome.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your fermented jalapeño honey in the refrigerator after fermentation is complete.
• It can last up to six months when properly stored in an airtight container.

Freezing Fermented Jalapeño Honey

• Freezing is not recommended as it may alter the texture of the honey.
• If you choose to freeze, use freezer-safe containers and consume within three months.

Reheating Fermented Jalapeño Honey

• Oven: Preheat your oven to low heat, then place the container inside until warmed through. Avoid high temperatures that could destroy beneficial properties.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (10-15 seconds), stirring in between to prevent overheating.
• Stovetop: Gently warm over low heat in a saucepan. Stir continuously to maintain even heat without boiling.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Fermented Jalapeño Honey?

Fermented jalapeño honey is a spicy condiment made by fermenting sliced jalapeños in raw honey. This unique combination adds flavor and potential health benefits.

How long does it take for Fermented Jalapeño Honey to ferment?

Typically, it takes about one to two weeks for fermented jalapeño honey to be ready. You’ll know it’s done when the honey becomes thinner and may show some bubbling.

Can I adjust the spice level of my Fermented Jalapeño Honey?

Yes! You can control the spice level by adjusting how many seeds you leave in or by using milder peppers alongside jalapeños.

How should I use Fermented Jalapeño Honey?

This versatile condiment pairs well with cheese boards, grilled meats, or as a salad dressing ingredient. Its sweet and spicy profile enhances various dishes.

Is Fermented Jalapeño Honey safe to eat?

Absolutely! As long as you follow proper fermentation methods and store it correctly, fermented jalapeño honey is safe and delicious.

Final Thoughts

Fermented jalapeño honey combines sweetness with a kick, making it an exciting addition to your culinary repertoire. It’s versatile enough for various dishes, from savory meals to sweet treats. Feel free to customize your recipe by experimenting with different peppers or adding herbs. Give this recipe a try and elevate your condiments!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Fermented Jalapeño Honey

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Aileen
• Total Time: 0 hours
• Yield: Approximately 12 servings (1 tablespoon each) 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Fermented jalapeño honey is a delightful blend of sweet and spicy, perfect for adding a unique twist to your meals. This easy-to-make condiment not only enhances the flavors of tacos, grilled meats, and cheese platters but also boasts health benefits from its key ingredients—raw honey and jalapeños. Whether you’re entertaining guests or just want to elevate a weeknight dinner, this fermented honey offers versatility across various dishes. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, even beginners can master this recipe. Enjoy it as a glaze, dressing, or dip, and surprise your taste buds with its bold flavor profile.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 5–6 jalapeño peppers
• 1 cup raw honey
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (for garnish)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Slice the jalapeños, removing seeds if desired.
2. Fill a wide mouth pint-sized mason jar with the sliced jalapeños until 1/2-3/4 full.
3. Pour raw honey over the jalapeños until fully covered.
4. Screw on the lid tightly, flip to mix, then loosen slightly to release gases.
5. Place in a dark spot and flip daily for 1-2 weeks until bubbles form and honey thins.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: None
• Category: Condiment
• Method: Fermenting
• Cuisine: Fusion

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 tablespoon
• Calories: 60
• Sugar: 16g
• Sodium: 0mg
• Fat: 0g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Unsaturated Fat: 0g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 17g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 0g
• Cholesterol: 0mg