What is jalapenos, canned jalapenos, jalapeno peppers?

Jalapeno (pronounced Ala-peen-yo) are popularly used in both Spanish and Mexican cuisines as a source of heat. The distinct, sour-spicy taste with an acidic afterburn is what makes these peppers so unique. The heat level of Jalapenos depend on both: the quality of cultivation and preparation of the product. Caused primarily by capsaicin and related compounds, the heat in Jalapenos are concentrated in the veins (placenta) surrounding the seeds, which are called picante. That is why it is advised that when deseeding and deveining fresh Jalapenos to wear gloves or coat your fingers in oil to reduce the heat imparted to the hands.

How to select jalapenos, canned jalapenos, jalapeno peppers

Ensure that you choose a good brand of canned jalapeno from your local food store. The tin/ can should not be tampered with and should not be puffed. Puffed cans are unsuitable for use and should be avoided. Check for the manufacturing and expiry date before purchase. Also check that the jalapenos in brine solution have not turned black.

Culinary Uses of jalapenos, canned jalapenos, jalapeno peppers in Indian Cooking

• A fun starter or finger food, Jalapenos when normally filled with cheese, coated in batter and deep fried make for delicious poppers.

• Baking stuffed jalapenos is a healthy appetizer option.

• Jalapenos are commonly used for making pimento cheese, potato salad, snack food and sandwich filling.

• Bottled or pickled Jalapenos pack a punch so please use sparingly in Mexican recipes for guacamole, salad dressings and in sandwiches.

How to store jalapenos, canned jalapenos, jalapeno peppers

Unopened cans can stay fresh at room temperature for upto 6 to 9 months or as specified on the tin by the manufacturer. Opened cans should be stored refrigerated and used within the said expiry date. Do not throw its brine solution till jalapenos are completely used. They act as preservative.

Health benefits of jalapenos, canned jalapenos, jalapeno peppers

Jalapenos are rich in vitamin C and a compound capsaicin which help build immunity and fight bacteria and virus. They also contain some amount of fibre. However the canned jalapeno or the jalapeno in brine solution is high in sodium and thus not advisable for regular consumption for us, especially for those with high blood pressure, heart disease and kidney disease. Their pungent spicy taste is also not suitable for people suffering from acidity.

chopped jalapenos

They can be diced or chopped into small pieces on a chopping board using a sharp knife and added to a freshly made salsa.

sliced jalapenos

Slice the jalapenos using a sharp knife by cutting vertically across the cutting board. Slice them thinly or thickly as per the recipe requirement. Sliced jalapeno are also easily available in a bottle.

jalapeno paste

Remove the jalapenos from the brine solution. If you have bought whole jalapenos, remove the stem ends of the jalapenos, chop them into big pieces and blend in a mixer to a smooth paste. If you have bought sliced jalapenos, then add them into a mixer jar and blend to a smooth paste.