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Jalapeno Peppers Delivery or Pickup
The Instacart guide to jalapeno peppers
About jalapeno peppers
Jalapeno peppers are a medium-size chili pepper. Most jalapenos average about 2 inches to 3.5 inches in length, but some grow up to six inches or longer. These peppers originated in Mexico but are now grown all over the world, including in many home gardens. Jalapenos have a mild heat level with a range of 2,500 to 8,000 on the Scoville Heat Unit (SHU) scale, with an average of about 5,000 units.
The word jalapeno means Jalapa in Spanish, which is the capital of Veracruz, Mexico. It is thought that the first jalapenos were grown in the Veracruz region. The majority of the U.S. commercial jalapeno peppers are now grown in New Mexico, California, and Texas.
The basic makeup of a jalapeno includes the exocarp, the outer layer, and skin; the mesocarp, the center with the absorbed water; and the endocarp, the membrane surrounding the seeds. The capsaicin glands near the seeds produce capsaicin, which is what gives you the burning sensation in your mouth. The seeds absorb capsaicin, which is why they often have the most heat.
Some of the most common varieties of jalapeno peppers include:
- Senorita. The Senorita jalapeno has a dark green color that turns purple and then red as it matures if left on the vine. The pepper is usually about 3 inches long and registers 5,000 SHU on the heat scale.
- Fresno chili. The Fresno chili jalapeno is smaller than other jalapenos at only 2 inches long. These are very mild and register at 300-400 SHU.
- Sierra Fuego. The Sierra Fuego is a hybrid jalapeno. It's longer than others at about 3.5 inches and over an inch wide. It has a dark green color and a mild flavor with just a touch of heat.
- Mucho Nacho. The Mucho Nacho is another hybrid. These are the longest version and reach 4 inches. It has a lot of flavor without a lot of heat.
You can find jalapenos in several forms at the store. Smoked and dried jalapenos are available whole and called chipotles. Canned chipotles in adobo sauce are also available and located in the Mexican section of the store. You can also find jars of pickled jalapenos in the Mexican foods section.
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How to pick out jalapeno peppers
You'll find fresh jalapenos in the produce section of the grocery store. Look for jalapenos that have a bright green color and are firm to the touch with smooth skin. You also want to look at the stem to make sure it is still tightly attached. Avoid jalapenos that have soft spots or peppers that appear mushy. If the stem is loose or missing, choose another pepper. As these peppers age, they will start to turn a darker green and then red. Older peppers will also have a slightly shriveled look.
What to do with jalapeno peppers
There are many different ways to eat and prepare jalapenos, including:
- Mince the peppers into small pieces and add to salsa.
- Just take a bite of a whole raw jalapeno if you can stand the heat.
- Blend jalapenos and turn into hot sauce.
- Make jalapeno poppers by stuffing them with cheese and bacon, breading them, and then deep-frying.
- Add a touch of heat to savory baked goods with some chopped jalapeno.
Jalapeno Peppers Near Me
Buy your favorite Jalapeno Peppers online with Instacart. Order Jalapeno Peppers from local and national retailers near you and enjoy on-demand, contactless delivery or pickup within 2 hours.
FAQs about jalapeno peppers
Although serrano peppers look similar to jalapenos, serranos are usually smaller and thinner. Both peppers have a medium heat level on the Scoville scale, but serranos are hotter than jalapenos. Both have similar flavors, so if you can't find jalapenos, a serrano will make a good substitute in most recipes as long as you consider the extra heat.
To cut a jalapeno, start by washing it under cold water. Use a small, sharp knife to cut it in half lengthwise, and then if you want to remove some of the heat, shake out the seeds. Use the knife's point to scrape out the placenta along with the pith and ribs on the side of the pepper. You can then slice or chop.
Keep in mind, that like other hot peppers, jalapenos will sting your skin and eyes. Ensure you don't touch any sensitive area after touching a jalapeno, and thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water after handling. You can wear gloves when preparing jalapenos to help avoid getting the capsaicin chemical on your skin. Just make sure to turn them inside out when you remove them.
Whether you want to make salsa, a batch of pickled jalapenos for sandwiches, or just have them for a snack, use the Instacart app to shop for jalapeno peppers!