You’ve spent the day slaving away at the office. You’re craving something a little spicy, but the thought of curry doesn’t really hit the right taste bud tingles. No, the crunch of something deep-fried is the only thing that will hit the spot.
For the uninitiated, jalapeño poppers are glorious hallowed out jalapeño peppers, stuffed to the brim with a delicious mixture of cheese, spices, and bread before being deep-fried and feverishly consumed by all those that hail this spicy snack as the holy grail of finger foods.
While the origins of the jalapeño popper are slightly confusing, one thing we do know is that it’s based on the Mexican dish Chile Relleno, and well, it’s a spicy delight. If you’re looking to sink your teeth into this spicy pepper, here are a few spots around Cape Town you can check out:
Tortuga Loca
Deep-fried jalapeño goodness stuffed with cream cheese, mozzarella and cheddar cheese is what you’ll tuck into when choosing to dine at this vibey Muizenberg eatery. Opened at the end of last year, this beachfront Mexican restaurant offers more than just delicious finger foods. Order a range of delicious dishes, including their pulled jack fruit tacos and thirst-quenching margeritas.
- Location: 141 Main Road, Muizenberg, Cape Town
- Contact: 087 095 5733
Fat Cactus
Fat Cactus is the go-to spot for hungry hippos looking to tuck into the most delicious Mexican delights on the tip of Africa. Considered Cape Town’s original chilli poppers, these “Fat Snacktus” are jalapeños stuffed with three kinds of cheese and wrapped in the crispiest fried batter. It’s made even more mouth-watering thanks to the side of tangy salsa mayo served alongside it.
- Location: Woodstock | Gardens | Mowbray
- Contact: www.fatcactus.co.za
Pancho’s
Another Cape Town favourite if you’re looking to enjoy Mexican food, the poppers at Pancho’s are a little different but still oh-so-delicious. Wrapped in flour tortillas and deep-fried until its golden brown, they’re served with sour cream and guacamole to ensure your tastebuds are truly transported on a culinary adventure. Add refried beans or vegan cheese as additional options.
- Location: 127 Lower Main Road, Observatory
- Contact: panchosonline.com
The Shack
Okay, so this entry may seem a tad unconventional, but patrons of this restaurant/bar swear by the chilli poppers that make their way out of the kitchen. Jalapeño peppers stuffed with an assortment of cheeses, it’s then wrapped in phyllo pastry and deep-fried until it’s golden brown – just the way we like it!
- Location: 45 De Villiers Street, Zonnebloem
- Contact: The Shack Facebook
Happy poppin’ about town!
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Picture: Craving Tasty
