Jalapeño pepper

Description

Jalapeño pepper is a medium-sized, green (ripe ones can turn red) pepper with a shiny skin, meaty flesh, and a distinct, moderately spicy flavor — typically ranging from 2,500 to 8,000 SHU on the Scoville scale. It has a fresh, slightly grassy aroma with a pleasant spicy finish, and removing the seeds and white membranes significantly reduces the heat. Jalapeño is low in calories, rich in vitamin C, vitamin A, fiber, and antioxidants; the capsaicin it contains supports metabolism, has anti-inflammatory properties, and may alleviate pain. In the kitchen, it works well in salsas, guacamole, marinades, fillings (e.g., jalapeño poppers), on the grill, in tacos and burgers, and for pickling. Store peppers in the refrigerator in a perforated bag or container in the vegetable drawer, use within 1–2 weeks, and for longer storage, freeze or preserve by pickling. When cutting, it's advisable to wear gloves and wash hands after contact.