Jalapeno pepper is a popular ingredient in Mexican cuisine. One pepper contains only 5 calories, making it a great addition to any diet.

In addition to being low in calories, jalapeno peppers are also packed with nutrition. They are high in vitamin C, vitamin B6, and potassium.

In this article, we'll explore the various benefits, uses, and varieties of jalapeno pepper.

Jalapeno Pepper Nutrition Facts

Jalapeno peppers are a great source of several key nutrients. One pepper contains approximately 2% of the recommended daily intake of calories, 4% of vitamin C, and 2% of potassium. They are also a good source of vitamin B6, folate, and vitamin K.

Jalapeno Pepper Heat Level

Jalapeno peppers are known for their spicy kick. The heat level can vary depending on the pepper and how it's prepared. On the Scoville scale, which measures the heat of peppers, jalapenos typically range from 2,500 to 8,000 Scoville units. To compare, a bell pepper is 0 Scoville units and a habanero pepper can range from 100,000 to 350,000 Scoville units.

How to Grow Jalapeno Pepper

Jalapeno peppers are easy to grow in many climates. They prefer warm weather and full sun. They can be grown in containers or in the ground, and are often started from seeds indoors before being transplanted outside.

Jalapeno Pepper Recipes You Can Try

Jalapeno peppers can add flavor and spice to many dishes. Here are a few recipes you can try: 1. Jalapeno poppers: Slice jalapeno peppers in half, remove the seeds and membrane, then fill with cream cheese and wrap with bacon before baking. 2. Jalapeno salsa: Combine diced jalapeno peppers, tomatoes, onion, and cilantro with lime juice and salt for a fresh and spicy salsa.

Jalapeno Pepper Health Benefits

Jalapeno peppers offer several health benefits. They are high in antioxidants, which can help protect against certain types of cancer and heart disease. They can also help boost metabolism and aid in digestion.

Jalapeno Pepper Varieties You Might Not Know

In addition to the classic green jalapeno pepper, there are several other varieties you might not be familiar with. 1. Purple jalapeno: This variety starts out green but turns a deep purple color as it ripens. 2. White jalapeno: This variety is milder and sweeter than the classic green jalapeno.

How to Roast Jalapeno Pepper

Roasting jalapeno peppers can add a smoky flavor to dishes. Here's how to do it: 1. Preheat broiler to high. 2. Place jalapeno peppers on a baking sheet and broil for 5-7 minutes, or until the skin is charred.

Jalapeno Pepper Popularity in Mexican Cuisine

Jalapeno peppers are a staple ingredient in Mexican cuisine. They are often used in salsa, guacamole, and other dips, as well as in tacos, fajitas, and other dishes.

Jalapeno Pepper vs Other Hot Peppers

While jalapeno peppers are known for their heat, they are actually milder than many other hot peppers. For example, a serrano pepper can be up to 5 times hotter than a jalapeno pepper.

How to Reduce the Heat of Jalapeno Pepper

If you find jalapeno peppers too spicy, there are a few things you can do to reduce the heat. 1. Remove the seeds and membrane, which contain much of the heat. 2. Soak sliced jalapeno peppers in cold water for 30 minutes before using them in a recipe.