Jalapeño Chile
Description
The Jalapeño chile is a medium-sized pepper that is prized for its warm, burning sensation when eaten. Ranging from 2,500 to 8,000 Scoville units, jalapeños are moderate in heat level and are popular in many different cuisines around the world. They can be used fresh, dried, smoked (known as chipotles), or pickled, providing a versatile flavor profile. Jalapeños are about 2 to 3 inches in length and typically range from green to red when ripe.
Common uses
Jalapeños are commonly used in salsas, dips, sauces, stews, and as toppings for dishes like nachos and pizza. They are also stuffed with cheese or meats and either baked or deep-fried, known as 'Jalapeño poppers'.
Nutritional value
Calories
A typical Jalapeño pepper (about 14 grams or 0.5 ounces) provides approximately 4 calories.
Protein
Jalapeños contain about 0.1 grams of protein per pepper.
Fat
These chiles have a negligible fat content, with less than 0.1 grams per pepper.
Carbohydrates
Jalapeños consist of about 0.9 grams of carbohydrates per pepper, mainly from fibers and sugars.
Vitamins
Jalapeños are a good source of Vitamin C, providing about 10% of the recommended daily intake per pepper. They also contain Vitamin A, K, and small amounts of B vitamins.
Minerals
The pepper contains minerals like potassium, magnesium, and iron, but in relatively small amounts.
Health benefits
Jalapeños are packed with capsaicin, the compound responsible for their heat, which is linked to various health benefits such as boosting metabolism, relieving pain, and reducing inflammation.
Potential risks
Consuming jalapeños may cause digestive discomfort for some individuals, and the capsaicin can be irritating to the skin and eyes. It is advisable to handle them with care and consider individual tolerance levels.
Common recipes
Jalapeños are widely used in recipes like guacamole, salsa, chili, and as a flavor enhancer in sandwiches and burgers.
Cooking methods
These peppers can be roasted, grilled, sautéed, or eaten raw. Smoking jalapeños leads to the creation of chipotles, which provide a deep, smoky flavor to dishes.
Pairing with other ingredients
Jalapeños pair well with ingredients like tomatoes, onions, coriander, and lime. They also complement proteins such as chicken, beef, and pork.
Summary
The Jalapeño chile is a highly versatile and widely used pepper known for its perfect balance of heat and flavor. It adds a spicy kick to any dish and is an essential ingredient in various cuisines, adding both nutritional value and excitement to meals around the globe.