Best Easy Chiles en Vinagre Recipe

Jalapeños and vegetables pickled in vinegar with herbs are a staple Mexican condiment. This vegetarian, healthy, fresh accompaniment adds bold flavor to any meal with zero guilt.

Cook 40 min Difficulty EASY 28 kcal
#vegetarian #mediterranean
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Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • jalapeño peppers 8 pieces
  • carrots 2 medium
  • white onion 1 medium
  • garlic cloves 4 cloves
  • bay leaf 2 leaves
Seasonings/Sauce
  • white distilled vinegar 1 cup
  • water 1 cup
  • sugar 1 tbsp
  • salt 2 tsp
  • black peppercorns 1 tsp
  • dried oregano 1 tsp
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 4 g 57%
Protein 1 g 13%
Fat 1 g 30%
Serving size 55g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Slice jalapeños into rings (remove seeds for milder heat), carrots into thin rounds, and onions into thin wedges.

  2. 2

    In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add 1 tbsp oil, then sauté the carrots, jalapeños, and onions for 4 minutes, just until starting to soften.

  3. 3

    Add garlic cloves, bay leaves, peppercorns, and dried oregano; stir and cook over medium-low heat for 2 more minutes—avoid browning the garlic.

  4. 4

    Pour in vinegar, water, salt, and sugar. Stir until salt and sugar dissolve, then increase heat just until the mixture comes to a gentle simmer.

  5. 5

    Reduce heat to low and let the vegetables simmer uncovered for 5–6 minutes, then remove from heat and let cool completely before transferring to a jar. Refrigerate and let marinate at least 8 hours before serving for optimal flavor.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient in this Chiles en Vinagre recipe?
The essential ingredient in this recipe is fresh jalapeño peppers. Their bright, spicy flavor defines the dish and pairs perfectly with the pickling brine. Supporting vegetables like carrots and onions add sweetness and crunch, but jalapeños are the unmistakable star.
Q. What cooking technique ensures the best texture for the pickled vegetables?
A brief sauté over medium heat softens the jalapeños, carrots, and onions slightly without making them mushy. Following this, a short simmer in the vinegar mixture ensures the vegetables stay crisp-tender while absorbing flavors, rather than overcooking.
Q. How can I prevent the jalapeños from turning too soft in the brine?
Avoid prolonged cooking and use medium or medium-low heat, as outlined in the recipe. Only sauté and simmer the vegetables until just softened, then cool and refrigerate promptly. This careful timing preserves the signature crunchy bite.
Q. How many calories and carbs are in each serving?
Each 55g serving of Chiles en Vinagre contains about 28 kcal and 4g of carbohydrates. Carbohydrates provide roughly 57% of the total calories per serving, making this a light, veggie-forward condiment.
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