Jalapeno — Nutrients, Health Benefits, and Shopping Tips
Written by Listonic Team
Last update on September 6, 2024
Jalapeno nutrients
Nutrition facts
Amount per 100 g
Calories
🔥 29 kcal
| Nutrients per: 100 g | Value | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|---|
| Carbs | 7 g | 2.55% |
| Fiber | 3 g | 10.71% |
| Sugars | 4 g | 8% |
| Glycemic Index | 15 | - |
| Protein | 1 g | 2% |
| Sodium | 3 mg | 0.13% |
| Total Fat | 0 | - |
*The % of Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
29
🍏 Low-Calorie Foods
15
🟢 Low Glycemic Index
Jalapeno facts & tips
Health benefits
- Rich in vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin C, Vitamin A, and potassium, which support overall health and well-being.
- Contains capsaicin, which has anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.
- May boost metabolism and aid in weight management by increasing calorie burning.
- Supports immune function due to its high Vitamin C content.
Health risks
- Potential for digestive discomfort such as heartburn, stomach irritation, or diarrhea, particularly in individuals sensitive to spicy foods or when consumed in large quantities.
- Risk of allergic reactions in some individuals, particularly those allergic to chili peppers, causing symptoms like itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing.
- Potential for contamination with pesticides if not properly washed or sourced from organic suppliers, which can pose health risks.
- Risk of irritation to the skin and eyes when handling raw jalapeños, particularly the seeds and inner membranes, which contain capsaicin.
How to choose jalapeno
Jalapenos should be firm and glossy, with a bright green color, indicating they are ripe and spicy. The skin should be taut and free from soft spots or wrinkles.
Avoid jalapenos that are soft or have begun to yellow, as these may be past their peak ripeness. Jalapenos with bruises or black spots should also be avoided, as they may have begun to rot.
How to store jalapeno
Fresh jalapenos should be stored in the refrigerator, ideally in a plastic bag. Refrigeration helps maintain their freshness and heat for up to a week. Proper storage ensures they stay crisp and spicy.
Air exposure can cause jalapenos to dry out and lose flavor. Avoid washing before storage to prevent mold growth. Ensuring the bag is loosely sealed allows air circulation, maintaining their freshness and spiciness.
✅ Extra Tip
How long does it last?
Jalapenos can last for 1-2 weeks in the refrigerator. For longer storage, jalapenos can be pickled or frozen, lasting up to 6-8 months. Proper storage helps maintain their freshness and heat.
What to do with leftovers?
Leftover jalapeños can be used in a variety of spicy and flavorful dishes. Chop them up and add to salads, salsas, or guacamole for a spicy kick, or mix them into a pasta dish with cheese and cream for added heat. Jalapeños are also great when stuffed with cheese and baked as a jalapeño popper.
Use jalapeños in a stir-fry with vegetables and your choice of protein, or mix them into a chili or stew with beans, meat, and tomatoes. If you have a lot of jalapeños, consider pickling them with vinegar, sugar, and spices for a tangy snack or topping. Jalapeños can also be sliced and added to burgers, sandwiches, or tacos for a spicy twist, or mixed into a cornbread batter for a zesty flavor. For a quick snack, enjoy jalapeños with cheese and crackers, or blend them into a spicy dipping sauce for chips or vegetables.
👨⚕️️ Medical disclaimer
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Listonic Team
Fact-checked
Our editorial team checked this article to make sure it was accurate at the time of publishing it.
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