Summoning Fire

Nothing beats the culinary ingenuity that surrounds Death Valley this time of year, displayed through embellished, high-performance grills and rigs turning out mass quantities of jambalaya, ribs, brisket, burgers, dogs and gumbo. But preceding these classic main dishes, break out a tray of that timeless appetizer, the jalapeno popper. Retro? Sure. But it’s a perfect match for a Louisiana tailgate, given the fire within, the limitless stuffing possibilities and the bounty of fresh jalapenos still in full supply on local pepper plants. Last month, when little fresh produce emerged in the lifeless summer heat, pepper plants were still rocking along, yielding plenty of jalapeno, banana, bell and other varieties. In fact, the plants I put in the ground in April are still producing–now more than ever.

Poppers are a breeze to prepare–simply slice the jalapeno open lengthwise. If you like them hot, leave the seeds and veins. If not, remove them. I never wear gloves, but I always wash my hands immediately after handling them. Fill each half with about two teaspoons of the mixture of your choice, then grill them over medium heat for about five minutes or until the cheese melts and the pepper is tender and slightly charred. Stuff with:

• Cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, cumin and cayenne

• Spicy Italian sausage (cooked) and shredded sharp cheddar

• Crawfish tails (cooked), cream cheese, sautéed onion, green pepper and garlic and mozzarella

• Chopped artichoke hearts and sundried tomatoes and goat cheese

• Bits of grilled chicken, black beans and sharp cheddar

• Cooked shrimp, spinach and gruyere. Wrap this one in bacon.

Prepare a tray the night before a home game. They’re a great vehicle for leftover bits of ingredients used in your other tailgate dishes.

Maggie Heyn Richardson writes about food and wine for 225. Her food writing has also appeared in EatingWell magazine, Taste of the South magazine, WRKF in Baton Rouge and on the national radio program, On Point. Email her your story ideas at [email protected].