Jalapeno Pepper
What exactly is a jalapeno pepper?
A jalapeno pepper is, of course, a type of chili pepper. It is a fuit of the Capsicum pod type. It is a medium sized pepper when compared to other chili pepper, measuring an average of 2-3.5 inches in length. While originating in Mexico, it is now grown worldwide for it's popular flavor and mild heat level, which averages around 5,000 Scoville Heat Units. That is hot, but not too hot.
You'll find them served when green, but if you leave the jalapeno pepper on the plant long enough, it will turn red. The red variety are just as delicious as the green jalapeno pepper, though a touch sweeter.
A mature jalapeno pepper plant measures 2-3 feet in height and will typically produce around 30-40 jalapeno pepper pods. If you grow them in your own garden, pick them regularly, as the plant will continue to produce.
Learn More About the Jalapeno Pepper
Got a huge harvest of fresh chilis this year? Here are some great resources on preservations methods: