As you all know...it's FOOTBALL season!!! I'm just coming down from the euphoria of watching Auburn squeak by Mississippi State tonight. (I HATE those cowbells!!! It was so annoying not being able to hear the commentators over the racket! AND it's against the SEC rules to shake them during plays. But did anyone care? NO!!!) Let me get back to my thoughts...FOOTBALL SEASON means tailgating...whether at the actual GAME or watching the game on TV. And that means...GOOD FOOD!
Jalapeno Popper Spread
When MacDaddy and I head to Auburn for games, our friends insist that we bring Cuban sandwiches (something I first did when AU played my alma mater, USF (Univ. of South FL...in Tampa). I brought a little taste of Tampa with me to honor my Bulls (hey...football is still new to USF... Ya gotta celebrate somehow! Guess who won that game...) Sandwiches are fine...and these are delicious. But...you need more than that. So here's a simple recipe that always gets raves...
Jalapeno Popper Spread2 blocks cream cheese, softened
1/2 jar diced jalapeno peppers*, plus some of the juice (more or less, to taste)
Parmesan Cheese, shredded (I use freshly grated cheese, adding some to the spread and enough to cover the top.)
1/4 cup Panko bread crumbs (actually, I just sprinkle on top until the spread is covered)
Fold the peppers and juice into the softened cream cheese. Put the mixture into an oven-proof baking dish. Sprinkle the Parmesan Cheese on top, to cover. Sprinkle the Panko crumbs on top. Bake at 350 degrees until warmed through. Serve with pita chips, baguette slices, tortilla chips, etc.
*I use Mt. Olive Diced Jalapenos.
**There are many versions of this dip online...some call for mayo and green chilis, some add cheddar or Mexican cheese blends. They're all very good. Since I am not a big fan of mayo in spreads, I try to leave it out. The result is a lighter version of the spread. Just play with this recipe...make it your own.
Enjoy!
Jane
(football photo from msnbc.com)
17 comments:
YUM! This sounds delicious. I wonder how it would be using roasted habaneros - my favorite pepper! My brother graduated from Auburn first, then FSU with his masters. Football season is a BIG deal at their house :)
There is nothing like a good Cuban sandwich from Tampa. If I am anywhere near Gandy my plans get diverted. Actually Publix's isn't bad just not pressed. I am going to make that spread for the next Gator game.
Jane, this sounds great! I love poppers and never thought to mix it up and use it as a spread. Clever, very clever. I'd even watch a football if you served me this, lol.
Wow, this sounds absolutely sinful!!! Yum, I'm going right out to the grocery store!
Yumm! I just might be making this recipe for a Monday Night Football gathering next week! The guys would love it!!!
Sounds like poppers in a blender ;)
Handsome will love this, thanks!
(How's that spunky mom?)
Yum the food looks and sounds good.
I watched the game - - - I thought it could go either way, and now that I've seen it I'm SURE it could have gone either way.
Your boys Squeeked by and got the big W. Good for you!
Said very quietly and timidly: I kinda LIKE the cow bells.
Hi Jane, wow, I've never heard of this before?! Sounds wonderful. Pruxxx
Yum...I may have to try this. Looks so good.
That sounds fabulous!!!! I love poppers and your recipe seems like a much healthier alternative:)
Enjoy football season:) :)
Oh boy does this look good! What time is the game? :)
Oh wow! My boys love jalapenos so I will make this for them when my oldest gets back from Mass. Thanks for sharing Jane!
~ Tracy
Man, oh man..this is getting scary! The popper spread is ALWAYS my first tail-gating food of the season! Only got the recipe a few yrs ago and it's always a hit.............get outa my head, girlfriend!!!
I'll be trying this; sounds great! :) Thanks!
Hi Jane, thanks for your kind post on my blog regarding my beautiful GM. I really appreciate your thoughtful words. Pruxxx
Hey you have a new artsy look! Love it, and that spread looks delicious!
Hi Jane! We are not a football family but have the hint that your recipe will go just fine with soccer...and tennis...and basketball!!! LOL!!! Thank you!!
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