Discover the ultimate snacking experience with our Vegan, Healthy, and Gluten-Free Air-Fried Jalapeño Poppers. Loaded with creamy cashew cheese, these poppers strike the perfect harmony of heat and smoothness. Immerse yourself in the satisfying crunch of the gluten-free coating that perfectly complements the indulgent filling. These crispy and delicious Vegetarian Jalapeño Poppers are a must-have for any occasion, adding a flavorful kick to your appetizer spread.
Ingredients
- Jalapeño Peppers: Provide a fiery, zesty kick that’s both spicy and flavorful, setting the tone for the poppers.
- Cashews: Transform into a velvety, dairy-free cream cheese filling, offering a rich and creamy texture.
- Nutritional Yeast: Imbue a cheesy, savory essence, enhancing the overall taste and cheesiness.
- Lemon Juice: Infuse a bright and tangy note that balances the richness of the filling.
- Garlic & Onion Powder: Contribute depth and complexity to the flavor profile, elevating it.
- Gluten-Free All-Purpose Flour: Forms the base of a binding wet batter that adheres the breadcrumbs to the poppers, enhancing their crispy texture.
- Gluten-Free Bread Crumbs: Create a golden, crispy exterior that encases the creamy filling, adding a delightful crunch.
- Smoked Paprika: Introduce a smoky, earthy undertone that enriches the poppers with depth.
- Salt & Pepper: Serve as fundamental seasoning elements, ensuring the perfect balance of flavors in every bite.
Recipe Tips and FAQs:
Can you freeze these Vegan Jalapeno Poppers?
Absolutely! You can freeze the Vegan Gluten-Free Air-Fried Jalapeño Poppers for later enjoyment. After coating them with breadcrumbs but before air frying, place them on a tray to freeze until firm, then transfer to airtight containers or bags in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, no need to thaw; simply air fry from frozen, extending the cooking time slightly. This makes for a convenient and delicious snack anytime you crave it.
What kind of vegan dips could I use for this recipe?
Pair your Vegan Gluten-Free Air-Fried Jalapeño Poppers with an array of delectable vegan dips. Classic options like vegan ranch and salsa offer creamy and zesty contrasts to the poppers’ heat, while guacamole brings a creamy richness to the table.
Are these poppers spicy?
The spiciness of these Vegan Gluten-Free Air-Fried Jalapeño Poppers depends on your choice of jalapeño peppers and personal tolerance for heat. Jalapeños can vary in spiciness, so you might encounter some that are milder and others that pack more of a punch. Removing the seeds and membranes from the jalapeños can help reduce their heat.
Are these poppers vegetarian?
Yes, these Vegan Gluten Free Air-Fried Jalapeño Poppers are vegetarian. They do not contain any meat or animal-derived ingredients.
Are these Vegan Jalapeno Poppers healthy?
These Vegan Gluten-Free Air-Fried Jalapeño Poppers can be considered a healthier alternative to traditional poppers, as they are plant-based and free from dairy and gluten. However, whether they are “healthy” depends on your dietary goals and overall diet. They are baked rather than deep-fried, reducing the oil content, and the cashew cream cheese filling provides plant-based protein and healthy fats. They can be a nutritious addition to a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation. Remember that “healthiness” also depends on portion size and the overall context of your diet.
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Vegan Jalapeno Poppers
Ingredients
For the Cashew Cream Cheese Filling:
- 1 cup raw cashews (soaked in hot water for 1-2 hours, then drained)
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp nutritional yeast
- 1 garlic clove
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- salt and pepper to taste
For the Wet Batter:
- 1/2 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- salt and pepper to taste
For Coating and Air Frying:
- 12 large jalapeno peppers
- 1.5 cups gluten-free bread crumbs (or gluten-free panko crumbs)
- 1-2 tbsp avocado oil
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- salt and pepper to taste
- cooking spray or oil (for spraying)
Instructions
- In a high-speed blender, combine the soaked cashews, water, lemon juice, nutritional yeast, garlic, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Blend on high until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy. Transfer to a bowl and set aside.1 cup raw cashews, 1/4 cup water, 2 tbsp lemon juice, 2 tbsp nutritional yeast, 1 garlic clove, 1/2 tsp onion powder, salt and pepper to taste
- In a bowl, whisk together the gluten-free all-purpose flour, water, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to create a smooth batter. Set aside.1/2 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup water, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp onion powder, salt and pepper to taste
- Mix together the gluten-free bread crumbs, smoked paprika, avocado oil, salt and pepper in a medium sized bowl. Set aside.1.5 cups gluten-free bread crumbs, 2 tsp smoked paprika, salt and pepper to taste, 1-2 tbsp avocado oil
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut the jalapeño peppers in half lengthwise, remove the seeds and membranes, and rinse under cold water. Pat them dry with a paper towel.12 large jalapeno peppers
- Dip just the outer side of each jalapeño half into the wet batter, ensuring it's fully coated. Press the coated jalapeño halves in the breadcrumb mixture, rolling gently to adhere the coating. Spoon the cashew cream cheese filling into each jalapeño half.
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket. Place the coated jalapeño halves in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for about 8-12 minutes or until the coating is golden brown and crispy.cooking spray or oil
- Carefully remove the jalapeño poppers from the air fryer and let them cool slightly before serving. Serve with your favorite vegan dipping sauce.
Notes
Nutrition
Disclaimer: I am a health and wellness coach with a degree in health science from Arizona State University. However, I am not a doctor or registered dietitian. Any information or advice provided on this website is not intended to replace professional medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any dietary or lifestyle changes, especially if you have a medical condition. The information provided on this website is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be taken as professional medical advice or a substitute for it.
So so so yummy! I never knew vegan/gluten free could taste so good! It’s good to know my game day treat won’t mess up my stomach. Thanks Kate!
I am so happy to hear that you enjoyed this recipe Amber!
So good! Just the right amount of zip without the overbearing heat! Will enjoy many more times in the future!
Glad to hear it Rose! Thank you for your support and I appreciate your feed back