An A to Z guide to choosing, storing, preparing, and cooking fresh produce and recipe ingredients.
Renee Comet/Getty ImagesJalapeno Peppers
One of the most commonly used chile peppers in the United States, medium-to-hot jalapeños are available fresh and jarred.
When dried and smoked, they are known as chipotles.
Season: Year-round; peak in summer.
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How to Choose Jalapeno Peppers
Look for firm, plump chiles with shiny skin, which can be green or red. They’re green when young and ripen to red; riper chiles are often sweeter. -
How to Store Jalapeno Peppers
Refrigerate fresh peppers in a paper bag for up to 2 weeks.
How to Prepare Jalapeno Peppers
As with all chiles, handle jalapeños with care. Most of the heat comes from the seeds and the capsaicin, an alkaloid found in the white membrane. When handling this part, use care; if capsaicin gets on or near your eyes and skin, it will cause burning and irritation, so some people prefer to wear gloves. -
How to Use Jalapeno Peppers
Use jalapeños to spice up beans, sauces, and soups. You can moderate their heat by limiting the amount of seeds and membranes used in your dish—or eliminate those parts altogether if you just want the pepper’s flavor.
—Jenny RosenstrachReal Simple Jalapeno Pepper Recipes:
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How To: Seed Jalapeno Peppers
See how to remove the seeds without getting burned.
Find out what's in season in your area right now, then locate a farmers' market near you.
