Pepper Fingers
Pepper Fingers are spicy, cheesy stuffed banana peppers dipped in onion ring batter and fried to crispy perfection, perfect as an appetizer or snack for cheese and heat lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut the end off the banana pepper and hull it.
- Fill the hollow pepper with Velveeta cheese.
- Dip the stuffed pepper in onion ring batter.
- Fry the battered pepper like French fries until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in spices like garlic powder or paprika into the batter. If you want a healthier option, you can use low-fat cheese or substitute the Velveeta with a firmer cheese like cheddar. Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying to achieve that perfect golden brown color, similar to how you would fry onion rings.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Pepper Fingers as a fun appetizer at your next gathering, pairing them with a zesty dipping sauce like ranch or marinara. They also make a great side dish alongside grilled meats or as part of an appetizer platter with other finger foods like Hawaiian Pupus. A refreshing salad can balance the richness of the cheese.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover stuffed peppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through, which helps maintain their crispy texture. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pepper Fingers contains roughly 3 calories, with 0g protein, 0g carbohydrates, and 0g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of peppers for this recipe?
Yes, you can experiment with other mild peppers like poblano or even jalapeños if you prefer a bit of heat. Just ensure they are large enough to hollow out and hold the cheese. This can also add a unique flavor profile to your dish.
What can I do if I don't have onion ring batter?
If you don't have onion ring batter, you can make a simple tempura batter using flour, cornstarch, and cold water. Alternatively, you can use a store-bought beer batter or even pancake mix, which will give a nice crispy texture when fried.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian-friendly?
The recipe is already vegetarian as long as you ensure the batter does not contain any animal products. Opt for a vegetarian cheese option or a dairy-free alternative to cater to specific dietary needs while still enjoying this delicious dish.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).