Whole food · Vegetables and Vegetable Products
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The seeded, raw jalapeño is a crisp, bright green pepper that delivers a clean, grassy heat with a satisfying crunch. Its mild-to-medium spice level and low-calorie profile make it a versatile ingredient for adding a kick to any dish. With just 24 calories per 100g, it's a powerhouse of flavor without the caloric burden.
People adore jalapeños for their perfect balance of heat and flavor, which can elevate everything from tacos to cream cheese. Their cultural significance in Mexican cuisine and widespread use in global fusion dishes make them a beloved, versatile staple.
The capsaicin in jalapeños can cause digestive discomfort or heartburn for some, especially those with sensitive stomachs. To mitigate this, pair them with dairy like sour cream or yogurt, which neutralizes the heat, or remove the seeds and membranes to reduce spice intensity.
The name 'jalapeño' comes from the Mexican city of Xalapa (Jalapa), the capital of Veracruz, where the peppers were traditionally cultivated.
| Water | 93.8 g |
| Energy (Atwater General Factors) | 24.1 kcal |
| Nitrogen | 0.10 g |
| Protein | 0.62 g |
| Total lipid (fat) | 0.15 g |
| Ash | 0.35 g |
| Carbohydrate, by difference | 5.1 g |
| Fiber, total dietary | 1.7 g |
| Sugars, Total | 2.7 g |
| Sucrose | 0.00 g |
| Glucose | 1.1 g |
| Fructose | 1.6 g |
| Lactose | 0.00 g |
| Maltose | 0.00 g |
| Calcium, Ca | 10.1 mg |
| Iron, Fe | 0.04 mg |
| Magnesium, Mg | 8.9 mg |
| Phosphorus, P | 19.1 mg |
| Potassium, K | 167 mg |
| Sodium, Na | 0.00 mg |
| Zinc, Zn | 0.09 mg |
| Copper, Cu | 0.05 mg |
| Manganese, Mn | 0.08 mg |
| Vitamin C, total ascorbic acid | 89.9 mg |
| Vitamin B-6 | 0.27 mg |
| Biotin | 1.2 ug |
| Folate, total | 27.4 ug |
How do I reduce the heat of a jalapeño?
Remove the seeds and white membranes, as they contain most of the capsaicin. You can also soak the slices in cold water or vinegar for a few minutes to mellow the spice.
Are jalapeños good for weight loss?
Yes, they are very low in calories and high in fiber, which can help you feel full. The capsaicin may also slightly boost metabolism, though the effect is modest.
Can I eat jalapeños raw?
Absolutely! Raw jalapeños have a crisp texture and bright flavor. They are commonly used in salsas, salads, and as a topping for dishes like nachos or burgers.