Afterburners, also known as Jalapeno Shrimp Poppers, are a popular appetizer or snack known for their spicy kick and delicious flavor. Here’s all the information you requested:
What is it: Afterburners, or Jalapeno Shrimp Poppers, are typically jalapeno peppers stuffed with a mixture of cream cheese and shrimp, wrapped in bacon, and grilled or baked until the bacon is crispy and the peppers are tender. They are a fusion of spicy, creamy, and savory flavors.
History: While the exact origin of Jalapeno Shrimp Poppers isn’t well-documented, they are a creative take on the classic jalapeno poppers. These spicy treats have gained popularity in recent years due to the growing interest in spicy and flavorful appetizers.
Components: To make Jalapeno Shrimp Poppers, you’ll need the following components:
- Jalapeno Peppers: Fresh jalapenos, halved and deseeded.
- Shrimp: Cooked and deveined shrimp, usually chopped into small pieces.
- Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese, which acts as the creamy filling.
- Bacon Strips: Thin bacon strips to wrap around the stuffed jalapenos.
- Toothpicks: Used to secure the bacon around the peppers.
Steps to Prepare:
- Prepare the jalapenos: Cut the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes to reduce their spiciness.
- Make the filling: In a bowl, mix the softened cream cheese and chopped shrimp until well combined.
- Stuff the peppers: Fill each jalapeno half with the cream cheese and shrimp mixture.
- Wrap with bacon: Wrap a strip of bacon around each stuffed jalapeno half, securing it with toothpicks.
- Grill or bake: You can either grill the poppers on a medium-high heat grill or bake them in the oven at around 375°F (190°C). Cook until the bacon is crispy and the peppers are tender, usually around 20-25 minutes.
Time Needed: The time required to prepare Afterburners or Jalapeno Shrimp Poppers depends on your cooking method and experience. Generally, it takes about 20-25 minutes of cooking time, plus preparation time, which can vary but typically takes around 15-20 minutes. So, in total, you should plan for approximately 35-45 minutes from start to finish.
Enjoy your Afterburners as a spicy and savory appetizer or snack!
Certainly, here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Jalapeno Shrimp Poppers (Afterburners):
Nutrition Facts (per serving, approximately 2 poppers):
- Calories: 150-200 calories (varies based on specific ingredients and portion size)
- Total Fat: 10-15 grams
- Saturated Fat: 4-6 grams
- Cholesterol: 40-50 mg
- Sodium: 300-400 mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 4-6 grams
- Dietary Fiber: 1-2 grams
- Sugars: 1-2 grams
- Protein: 8-10 grams
Health Information:
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Moderation: While Jalapeno Shrimp Poppers can be a delicious treat, they are often high in calories, saturated fat, and sodium due to the cream cheese and bacon. Enjoy them in moderation as an occasional indulgence rather than a regular part of your diet.
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Spiciness: Jalapeno peppers can be quite spicy, and capsaicin, the compound responsible for the heat, may have health benefits, including potential pain relief and metabolism support. However, if you have a low tolerance for spicy foods or digestive issues, be mindful of the heat level.
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Protein: Shrimp is a good source of protein, which is essential for muscle health and overall well-being. However, be aware of the added fats and sodium in the recipe.
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Sodium: Bacon and cream cheese contain significant amounts of sodium. Excess sodium intake can contribute to high blood pressure. If you’re watching your sodium intake, consider using low-sodium bacon or cream cheese alternatives.
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Customization: You can make Jalapeno Shrimp Poppers healthier by using leaner protein options, such as grilled chicken or turkey bacon, and reduced-fat cream cheese. These modifications can reduce the overall calorie and fat content.
Remember that the specific nutritional values may vary based on the brands and quantities of ingredients used in your recipe. It’s always a good idea to check product labels for accurate nutritional information and adapt the recipe to your dietary preferences and requirements.
