Jalapeño Peppers are thick, leathery dark green or red chiles that contains quite a bit of heat. The Jalapeno is one of the most commonly grown chiles in Mexico and probably the most common chile pepper in the U.S. When the jalapeno is smoked and dried it is called a chipotle.
Jalapeno Peppers which belong to the Capsicum family , are one of the best-known chili peppers and are used worldwide. They are usually about 5cm/2 inches long, have a conical shape, and range from a medium to dark green in colour, turning red when ripe. They are fairly hot but not as fiery as scotch bonnets or habanero peppers.
Both Jalapenos and their dried smoked form, chipotles, are used extensively in Mexican cooking, dating back to the time of the Aztecs. In fact Jalapenos take their name from the city of Jalapa which is in the Mexican area of Veracruz from where they are believed to have originated.
The use of this chile dates back to the Aztecs who were the first known to smoke the chiles. Jalapenos are so thick and fleshy that they can't be dried to preserve them because they'll rot before they will dry.
The Jalapeno is very versatile and is used fresh, roasted, filled, as well as pickled. It can be diced and used in fresh salsas and pico de gallo or atop any dish where a little extra "heat" is desired. The pickled versions are used as a condiment. Jalapenos are also used in cooked dishes.
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