Air Fryer Keto Fried Jalapenos

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There was a time when I thought breaded jalapeno slices were off limits for anyone cutting carbs. Then I discovered how easy it is to recreate them in an air fryer. These bites still have the iconic crunchy texture, a fiery kick, and a cheesy center to balance everything out. The best part is that they do not require a vat of oil or an oven heating up the house. Whenever I want a quick appetizer or a midday snack, these jalapenos come to mind. They are quick to make, keto friendly, and definitely bring the heat.

Step by Step Directions

1. Getting the Jalapenos Ready

Start by washing and drying the jalapenos. Slice them about a quarter inch thick. Remove seeds if you want to lower the heat a bit. I like leaving a few seeds for extra spice. Place the sliced pieces on a plate and pat them dry. A quick pat helps the coating stick better in the next steps.

2. Cream Cheese Filling

In a small bowl, stir a bit of softened cream cheese with a tiny pinch of garlic powder. If you like it spicy, mix in a small amount of chili flakes. Using a small spoon or a piping bag, put a little cream cheese on one side of each jalapeno slice. This step gives a creamy balance against the jalapeno heat.

3. Creating a Crisp Coating

Now for the crispy factor. Crush some pork rinds until they are fine crumbs. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can use almond flour instead. Combine the crumbs or almond flour with a sprinkle of paprika and another pinch of garlic powder. Set that mixture aside. In another bowl, beat one egg. Dip each filled jalapeno slice in the egg, making sure the cream cheese stays in place, then roll or gently press it into the crumb mixture.

4. Air Frying

Preheat your air fryer to 375 F. Give the basket or tray a light spray of oil to prevent sticking. Arrange the coated jalapeno slices in a single layer, leaving a bit of space so they crisp up evenly. Air fry for about 10 to 12 minutes, checking halfway through. If you see any hot spots, rotate them or flip them for an even golden brown color.

5. Cooling and Serving

Once they look crisp and lightly browned, carefully remove them from the air fryer. Let them cool on a plate for a minute. The cream cheese center will be hot, so give them a quick test before biting in. Serve them with a simple dipping sauce or enjoy them as they are. Each piece should have that crunchy bite, tangy cream cheese, and a wave of jalapeno spice.

Nutrition Facts Per Serving

• Calories ~40 per slice
• Protein ~3g
• Carbs ~1g net
• Fat ~3g
• Fiber ~1g

Numbers can vary based on your specific brands of cheese and pork rinds. A slight change in portion size or ingredients can alter the macros, so feel free to adjust to fit your goals.

Tips for Maximum Freshness and Storage

1. Choose Firm Jalapenos
   Select peppers with bright green skin and minimal blemishes. This gives you the best crunch and flavor once fried.
2. Preparing Ahead
   You can assemble the slices a day in advance. Store them in the fridge without the coating and add the crumb mixture right before air frying to keep them from getting soggy.
3. Reheating
   If you have leftovers, pop them back in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain some crispness. The microwave can make the crust less crunchy.

A Personal Take on Flavor Additions

I sometimes add a dash of cumin or a sprinkle of onion powder to the crumb mixture for a richer taste. Another fun trick is to use pepper jack cheese instead of cream cheese for an extra spicy note. If you like a bolder flavor, try mixing in a bit of bacon bits with the cheese. This can take your jalapeno slices from regular appetizer to something truly memorable.

Pairing Suggestions with Other Recipes

For a balanced appetizer spread, I like to include a mild dip like guacamole or a tangy salsa. If you enjoy combining spicy and sweet, a small bowl of sugar free BBQ sauce can bring out interesting contrast. You can also serve these jalapenos alongside The Best Keto Brownies Ever for a sweet treat after all that heat. The interplay between spicy and chocolaty can be very satisfying.

Pin This Recipe for Later

If you appreciate simple low carb snacks that bring plenty of flavor, pin this recipe for Air Fryer Keto Fried Jalapenos. Note your favorite seasonings or any variation you tried. That way you will have a quick reminder the next time you crave something crispy and a little fiery.