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Friday, February 22, 2008
Jalapeno Chile Peppers - Topics Index
Jalapeno Chili Definition Where to Buy
Varieties Recipes
Uses and Product Types Other References
fresh green jalapeno pepper
Jalapeno chilies [hah-lah-PEH-nyoh] are thick, leathery dark green or red chiles that contains quite a bit of heat. The Jalapeno is one of the most commonly grown chiles in Mexico and probably the most common chile pepper in the U.S. When the jalapeno is smoked and dried it is called a "chipotle".
The name "jalapeno" is derived from "Jalapa" the capitol of Veracruz, Mexico. The chiles average 2" to 2 1/2" in length and about 1" in diameter.
The use of this chile dates back to the Aztecs who were the first known to smoke the chiles. Jalapenos are so thick and fleshy that they can't be dried to preserve them because they'll rot before they will dry.
Uses and Product Types
The Jalapeno is very versatile and is used fresh, roasted, filled, as well as pickled. It can be diced and used in fresh salsas and pico de gallo or atop any dish where a little extra "heat" is desired. The pickled versions are used as a condiment. Jalapenos are also used in cooked dishes.
Heat Scale
The Jalapeno is considered a moderate to hot chile or a 5 on a scale of 1 to 10 (10 being the hottest).
How to Buy & Store
Jalapeno Peppers, Fresh
Select chiles that are firm and smooth. A wrinkled chile means it is old. As with most produce jalapenos are best used fresh but you can store them for several days, refrigerated. See the where to buy section for purchasing information.
Jalapeno Powder
A few companies offer a Jalapeno powder although it is not particularly useful. It will add heat to food but not a lot of flavor.
Jalapeno Chiles, Whole Dried (Chipotle)
As mentioned before, in the dried and smoked form, the jalapeno is called "chipotle" and is available in Mexican markets and online.
Jalapenos en Escabeche
Available in cans or jars in most Mexican and many non-ethic grocery stores. La Morena is one of the best quality products and La Costena and Herdez are quite popular as well. If you like to make your own, fresh, here is a recipe. (Jalapenos en Escabeche)
Where to Buy
Jalapenos have become ubiquitous and are available in most grocery stores.
Chiliplants.com - Want to grow your own Jalapeno plants? The best source on the web for plant seedlings.
Other References
Complete List Of Jalapeno Recipes - GourmetSleuthOver 30 recipes using the Jalapeno.
Chili Heat Scale - GourmetSleuth, list of chili peppers, including photographs, and their relative and Scovile heat rating.
How To Roast Chili Peppers - GourmetSleuth, simple instructions for roasting chilies or tomatillos.
Mortar and Pestle (Molcajete) - GourmetSleuth, read about the history of the Molcajete as well as other classic mortar and pestle tools.
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