Jalapeno Poppers

Super Bowl SUPER Big Hits

We were introduced to this super tasty delight by my sister-in-law and even though my husband isn't much of a foodie, if he can find an occasion, any occasion for me to make these, he will- the Super Bowl is no exception.  These Jalapeno Poppers are SOOOOO much better than any you could find in a freezer isle.  They are stuffed with the perfect amount of heat and when paired with the cream cheese center and dipped in a homemade Sweet and Sour Sauce, I promise the plate will be empty before half time!

JALAPENO POPPERS

1- 8oz package cream cheese

1- 4oz can diced jalapenos

1/4 cup grated Parmesan Cheese

1 package wonton shells

Small glass of water

Pastry brush

Oil for frying

NOTE: The Wonton Shells are usually found by the Tofu section in the produce aisle of most grocery stores, I usually by the large size for egg rolls and cut them in fourths.

SWEET AND SOUR DIPPING SAUCE

1/2 cup water

1/2 tsp bullion powder (or 1/2 cube)

1/2 cup vinegar

3/4 cup sugar

3-1/2 Tbsp ketchup

1 Tbsp soy sauce

1 Tbsp cornstarch

-Prepare sauce by adding all ingredients to a saucepan.  Whisk together until smooth and cook over medium heat until mixture become translucent and thickens slightly.  Remove from stove and set aside until ready to serve with Poppers.

-Meanwhile, soften cream cheese and add Parmesan. Stir in Jalapenos, a 1/4 of the can at a time so as not to add to much heat (to play on the safe side when serving these to guests, I usually add about 1/2 the can and it usually has a really good kick.) Set aside when mixed.

-Open wonton shells and cut in 1/4 if using a larger pack.  Place 10-12 squares on a clean flat surface, cover the remaining wonton shells until ready to use because they dry out fast.  Place 1/2-1 tsp of mixture in the center of each wonton shell, taking care to not get any cheese on the edges or it will splatter when placed in the oil.

-Using a pastry brush (or finger) dipped in water, dampen two continuos sides of the filled wontons.  Quickly fold the shell in half, corner to corner to form a triangle.  Place on a plate for cooking.  Fill the remainder of the wontons in the same manner.

-Heat a large skillet over medium to medium high heat for several minutes, once oil is heated to about 375 degrees, fry each wonton on both sides 1-2 minutes or until golden brown. Turn down heat if the poppers brown too fast.
-Use tongs to flip and lift poppers.  Place hot poppers on a plate covered with a paper towel.
-Server with dipping sauce.