What Can You Cook With Jalapeño?

Everything You Need to Know About Jalapeño

Aww, the humble Jalapeño. This fiery little character might deliver a punch in the heat department but is so much more than that. From its origin story to its expansive list of health benefits, read on for an in-depth exploration of this culinary superstar.

A Brief History of the Jalapeño

Belonging to the species Capsicum annuum, Jalapeños are small, pungent chili peppers that originated in Mexico. The term ‘Jalapeño’ itself is Spanish for ‘from Xalapa’, Xalapa being the capital city of Veracruz, Mexico. It was here that the spicy pepper was cultivated for the first time, dating back to thousands of years – a testament to its age-old popularity. For more details on the history of Jalapeños, check out this article.

Also Known by Different Names

While Jalapeño might be the most universally recognized term for this chili, it goes by a few other names. For instance, it’s commonly referred to as ‘cuaresmeño’ in certain parts of Mexico. When smoked and dried, Jalapeños are known as ‘chipotle’ – a term that comes from the Nahuatl word ‘chilpoctli’, meaning ‘smoked chili’. This MasterClass article explains in detail about the nomenclature and varieties of Jalapenos.

Health Benefits of Jalapeños

These fiery peppers pack more than just a punch of heat; they come with significant health benefits too. Jalapeños are an excellent source of vitamins C and E. Not to mention, they’re also high in capsaicin – the compound responsible for their heat. This powerful compound increases your metabolism, reduces hunger, and lowers blood pressure

Likewise, the antioxidant content of Jalapeños is nothing to scoff at. These antioxidants, including lycopene, help in mitigating the damage caused by free radicals and reducing the risk of chronic diseases. For in-depth insight into the health perks of Jalapeños, visit this page on Healthline.

So the next time you find your eyes watering and your mouth on fire, remember – it’s not just about the heat, there’s also a history and a handful of health benefits behind that powerful little pepper called the Jalapeño.