Red Jalapeños vs. Green Jalapeños: What's The Difference?

Are red jalapeño peppers any different than green jalapeños? Does the taste change along with the color? Fine Dining Lovers tackles this hot topic and we've got some surprising information on this spicy pepper and its many personalities.  

Jalapeño Peppers: Fun Facts

Jalapeño peppers derive their name from the Mexican town of Jalapa, which is the capital of the coastal state of Veracruz.

When jalapeño peppers are dried and smoked they are known as chipotle peppers. Canned chipotles in adobo sauce are popular in Mexico and the Southwestern United States.

What's the difference between red and green jalapeños?

The main difference between red and green jalapeño is time. All peppers begin as green fruit (yes, technically they are fruits) and turn red when they ripen. The ripening process allows the pepper to develop more capsaicin, the substance that makes them spicy.

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Red Jalapeño Peppers

Red jalapeño peppers are harder to find than the green variety because they take longer to grow. Thus, it may not be available at your local market. However, red jalapeño seeds and red jalapeño power are readily available online through specialty stores such as Out of Mex.

How To Use Red Jalapeños

Red jalapeños may be used in any recipe you'd normally use green jalapeños: salsas, sauces, marinades, braises, stews and even brines.

Keep in mind that red jalapeños range from 2,000 to 35, 000 Scoville heat units. If you like things a little less spicy be sure to remove the veins and the seeds before using. Wearing gloves makes this task much easier and remember not to touch your eyes after chopping chilies!

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