Dove Poppers Recipe

Ingredients:

• 12 fresh jalapeños, halved lengthwise and seeded
• 1/2 cup cream cheese (room temp) or pimento cheese
• 1/4 cup shredded mild cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 tbsp chopped chives (fresh or dried)
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 12 dove breasts
• 12 slices of bacon
• Toothpicks

Instructions:

1. Prep the Jalapeños:
   Slice jalapeños in half lengthwise and remove seeds and membranes. Set aside.
2. Make the Filling:
   In a bowl, mix cream cheese (or pimento cheese), cheddar, mozzarella, chives, garlic powder, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Stuff the Peppers:
   Fill each jalapeño half with a generous spoonful of the cheese mixture.
4. Add the Dove:
   Place one dove breast on top of the cheese-filled jalapeño.
5. Wrap in Bacon:
   Wrap each stuffed jalapeño + dove with a slice of bacon. Secure with a toothpick if needed.
6. Cook:
   • To Smoke:
     Preheat smoker to 275°F. Smoke poppers for about 1 hour or until bacon is cooked and slightly crispy.
   • To Bake:
     Preheat oven to 400°F. Bake poppers on a foil-lined baking sheet with a rack for 20–25 minutes or until bacon is crisp and dove is cooked through. Finish under broiler for 1–2 minutes if needed.
7. Serve:
   Let rest 5 minutes before serving. Optional: Drizzle with a touch of honey or hot honey for a sweet-heat kick.