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Easy Pickled Jalapenos (Quick & Vegan-Friendly) Recipe

4.9 from 83 reviews

This easy pickled jalapenos recipe offers a quick and vegan-friendly way to add a spicy, tangy kick to your meals. With a simple brine made from vinegar, water, garlic, and salt, plus optional spices and veggies, these pickled jalapenos are perfect for sandwiches, salads, or snacks. Ready to enjoy in just an hour but best after overnight, they keep well refrigerated for up to 2 months.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 810 fresh jalapenos, sliced into rings
  • 1 cup white vinegar (or apple cider vinegar for sweetness)
  • 1 cup water
  • 23 garlic cloves, smashed
  • 1 tbsp sugar (optional; substitute maple syrup or agave for vegan-friendly)
  • 1 tbsp sea salt or pickling salt

Optional Spices and Add-ins

  • 1 tsp mustard seeds
  • ½ tsp oregano
  • 1 tsp peppercorns
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Sliced carrots, onions, or cauliflower

Instructions

  1. Prep the jalapenos: Wash the fresh jalapenos thoroughly and slice them into thin rings. Remove the seeds if you prefer a milder heat or leave them in if you want extra spice.
  2. Make the brine: In a saucepan, combine the vinegar, water, smashed garlic cloves, sugar, and salt. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally until the sugar and salt have completely dissolved.
  3. Pack the jars: Place the sliced jalapenos into clean, sterilized jars. If using, add optional veggies or spices at this stage. Pour the hot brine over the jalapenos, making sure they are fully submerged to ensure proper pickling.
  4. Cool & store: Allow the jars to cool to room temperature. Seal them tightly and refrigerate. The pickled jalapenos are tasty after just 1 hour but develop better flavor if left overnight. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 months.

Notes

  • For less heat, remove jalapeno seeds before pickling.
  • Use apple cider vinegar for a slightly sweeter brine.
  • Optional vegetables like sliced carrots or cauliflower add texture and flavor variety.
  • Make sure jars are clean and sterilized to extend shelf life.
  • Store pickled jalapenos in the fridge and consume within 2 months for best quality.

Keywords: pickled jalapenos, quick pickles, vegan pickled jalapenos, spicy condiment, homemade pickles