Jalapeno Pepper Guide (Heat, Flavor, Uses)

Jalapeno peppers may be the most well-known spicy chile in the world, often the star of Mexican and Tex-Mex dishes. Learn everything you need to know, including how to roast, peel, and seed them, in this detailed guide.

Table of Contents

What are jalapeno peppers?

Jalapeno peppers are medium-sized chiles that belong to the species Capsicum annuum. They typically measure around 2-4 inches in length, but they can grow up to 6 inches.

Like many ingredients and dishes in Mexico, jalapenos’ name comes from the place where they are thought to have originated — Xalapa, Veracruz (also spelled Jalapa). However, they also go by various other names, such as cuaresmeños or chiles gordos.

They are usually harvested and sold when green, but they ripen to a red color when left on the vine. Ripe jalapenos are often dried and smoked, forming chipotle peppers or morita peppers.

Flavor profile

When young and green, jalapeno peppers have a fresh, crisp, green bell pepper taste. If you leave them to ripen longer, red jalapeno peppers carry slightly sweeter notes and increase in spice further.

They are a popular ingredient in Mexican, Southwestern, and Tex-Mex dishes, adding a moderately spicy kick without overpowering the other ingredients. These peppers are perfect for salsas, dips, sauces, and taco toppings.

Spice level

The spice level of jalapeno peppers can vary significantly depending on their growing conditions and maturity, typically ranging between 2,500 to 8,000 Scoville Heat Units (SHU).

While milder than many other chiles, jalapenos can still provide a noticeable heat that can be intensified or reduced by removing the seeds and inner membranes, where the capsaicin is most concentrated.

For reference, habanero peppers are between 100,000 and 350,000 SHU. That means they are almost 40 times more potent!

Health benefits

Jalapenos are low in calories, high in fiber, and filled with vitamins A, C, and potassium. They also contain carotene, which is an antioxidant that helps cells fight oxidative damage.

While we’re on the topic of spice, jalapenos get their spiciness from a compound called capsaicin, which has been shown to lower cholesterol and decrease blood pressure through different mechanisms.

Cooking with jalapeno peppers

Jalapeno peppers can be diced and added raw to salsas, salads, and guacamole for a fresh, spicy taste. Another popular way to prepare jalapeños is by pickling them. This not only provides a tangy flavor, but it also subdues the heat a touch.

You can sauté jalapenos with onions and garlic as a base for soups and stews. You can roast them whole on a dry skillet or under a broiler until the skin blackens and blisters, then peel off the skin once they’ve cooled for a smoky and slightly sweeter flavor.

Recipes

Here are some of my favorite dishes to incorporate jalapeno peppers into:

Pickled Jalapeños

Guacamole

Salsa Fresca

Chiles Toreados

Storing

You can store whole jalapeno peppers in the fridge or at room temperature. At room temperature, they will last about 2-3 days. If they’re kept in the fridge, your peppers will last up to one week.

If you decide to store them in the fridge, I recommend keeping them in the crisper drawer so they don’t turn wrinkly or accidentally freeze. To actually freeze them, you can keep the peppers whole or slice them. Transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 6-12 months.

Buying guide

Learning how to buy the best jalapeno peppers is essential to getting the most bang for your buck! Check for firm peppers, and ensure there are no bruises, soft spots, or shriveled skin.

If you see white or tan lines on a jalapeño pepper, that’s completely fine! It means the plant has undergone more stress and the pepper will be spicier. You should have no issues finding jalapeno peppers at any local grocery store.

Jalapeno Pepper and Serrano Pepper on a Plate

Substitutions

With a bright, grassy flavor and mild-medium heat, there are a few suitable substitutes for the jalapeno pepper:

Serrano: With the same bright, garden-fresh flavors, serrano peppers make an excellent substitution for jalapeno peppers. However, they are about 2-4 times more spicy, so watch out!
Anaheim: Slightly sweet, tangy, and a bit smoky, Anaheim peppers range from 500-2,500 SHU and are another great choice to use instead of jalapenos.
Poblano: With a milder flavor and some earthiness, poblano peppers make a suitable replacement if you can’t find jalapenos. Just keep in mind that their SHU is between 1,000-1,500.

Frequently asked questions

Should I remove seeds from my jalapenos?

Since a large amount of capsaicin is found in the internal portion of the pepper, removing the seeds will make the jalapeño less spicy. Everyone’s heat tolerance is different, so it’s entirely up to you. However, the seeds are edible.

How do I handle jalapenos without irritating my skin?

When handling jalapenos, I suggest wearing gloves to avoid skin irritation or a burning sensation. Avoid touching your face, especially your eyes, when cutting or handling these peppers.

How do I grow jalapeño peppers at home?

To grow jalapeno peppers, plant them in well-draining soil in a spot that receives plenty of sunlight. Keep the soil consistently moist and use a fertilizer high in nitrogen to support their growth.