Jalapeno Peanut Brittle

1 to 2 jalapenos, chopped
1/3 cup water
2 cups sugar
1 cup light corn syrup
3 cups peanuts
1 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons butter
2 teaspoons baking soda

In a glass measuring cup place jalapeno and water and microwave for 5 minutes. Let stand for 15 minutes. Drain and reserve liquid and discard jalapenos. In a large non-stick saucepan mix sugar, jalapeno liquid and syrup, making sure to mix well. Stir over medium heat until candy thermometer reaches 240 degrees and add peanuts. Continue stirring until candy reaches 298 degrees and remove from heat and add salt, butter and baking soda, stir well. Pour onto a non-stick baking sheet and let cool completely, break into bite-size pieces.