Jalapeno Chilies

How To Choose a Jalapeno

Jalapeno peppers are tapered, deep green and about 2 inches long. Sometimes they can be red in color if left to ripen on the plant longer. In California jalapenos are found in the market produce area year round. When selecting a jalapeno pepper, look careful to make sure the skin is firm and smooth. Take note that no mold or soft spots are found on the stem or flesh. Store the peppers in a paper bag in the refrigerator for up to 10 days.

The Juice Can BURN

Cutting jalapenos can burn your fingers and any part of your body that you may touch even after washing your hands. So it's a good idea to wear surgical gloves. If you're like me you probably won't, so make sure you wash your hands with detergent and rub them to remove as much of the pepper from your skin.

Test the Pepper's HEAT

Jalapenos can be mild to hot in heat... the best way I know to determine the heat of the two peppers you are using in this recipe is to taste you finger after cutting each one. Your tongue will immediately let you know if this batch of pickled carrots will be HOT or mild.

If the pepper is HOT, I remove all the white veins and seeds from the peppers before adding them to my recipes.