The Jalapeno Pepper is the most common type of chili pepper, especially used in Mexican cuisine. However, they’re pretty much loved throughout the world. The Jalapeno is so versatile that it’s used in a variety of different dishes from salsas to soups, and as a favorite garnish for appetizers like nachos. You’ll find everything you need to know about Chile Jalapeno right here!
I’ve had a fascination with chili peppers since I was about 4 years old when I decided it was a good idea to eat one of the red peppers from our pet parrot’s bird feed. The day was spent nursing a blistering mouth. However, this obviously didn’t deter me because I’m still obsessed with chili peppers today. This brings me to one of my favorite peppers, the Jalapeno.
What Are Jalapenos?
The Jalapeno is the most common type of pepper used in cooking. It’s roughly 3 inches long, bright green, and moderately spicy. Although it has it’s origins in Mexico, it’s now harvested the world over.
How Hot Are They (Jalapeno Scoville)
The best way to determine how hot a particular pepper is (besides the risk of eating it) is to consult the Scoville scale . The Scoville scale assigns a heat rating to each type of chili pepper. For example, on the low end of the scale is the bell pepper (0 heat units) and on the really spicy end of the scale is the habanero (100,000 – 350,000 heat units). The Jalapeno Pepper registers between 2,500 and 8,000 heat units; this is slightly hotter than a a poblano pepper (1,000 – 1,500) but a little less hot than chile serrano (10,000 – 23,000)
In summation, the Jalapeno is rather spicy but it likely won’t cause appreciable discomfort. However, be careful and go slow when eating any type of pepper. Use only moderate amounts in your dishes and then add more depending on your tolerance level.
Serrano Vs. Jalapeno
Although both peppers are similar in taste and appearance (with Jalapenos being slightly thicker and longer), chile serrano is a slightly spicier pepper compared to the Jalapeno. Again, returning to the Scoville scale, we find that serrano peppers have 10,000 to 23,000 heat units whereas the Jalapeno has 2,500 to 8,000 heat units. Therefore, chile serrano is about three times hotter.
What Does The Jalapeno Pepper Taste Like?
Jalapeno Peppers have a distinct “green vegetable” flavor and are slightly sweet. However, when roasted they become smoky and the vegetable flavor becomes more mild.
Recipes Using Jalapeno Peppers
Jalapenos are commonly used in salsas, sauces, soups, and as a garnish for a multitude of dishes. Pickled jalapenos and canning jalapeno peppers are also common Mexican recipes. Here are just a few ideas to get you started using this much-loved pepper!
- Jalapeno Ranch Dressing
- Healthy Vegan Nachos
- Salsa Roja
- Fire Roasted Salsa
- Avocado Sauce
- Pico De Gallo With Avocado
- Pozole Verde
Health Benefits of Chili Peppers
Jalapenos are a great source of antioxidants and vitamins. Chili peppers in general are a natural remedy for heart burn as well as being beneficial for weight loss because they create a feeling of fullness when consumed. (1)(2)
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