The Jalapeno is a spicy pepper which is native to Mexico. It is thought that they were first grown by people in South America from around 3000 BC. The peppers are around 4cm in length and are dark green when they are young and then scarlet once ripe.
The word Jalapeno comes from the place name ‘Jalapa’ in the Mexican state of Vercruz where it is thought the chile originated. The Jalapeno was brought to Europe around the late fifteenth century from where it was exported worldwide.
On the Scoville scale the Jalapeno has 2,500 to 8,000 units and has a heat level which can vary from mild to hot depending on methods of cultivation or preparation.
The majority of the heat from a Jalepeno pepper comes from the seeds and white pith which can be removed for a milder taste. If they are dried or smoked they are known as chipolte and develop a deep, sweet flavor. Dried Jalapenos can be hotter than the fresh variety as capsaicin (The oil which gives the heat) becomes more concentrated.
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