How to Easily Tell If a Jalapeño Will Be Spicy

Ever brought home a jalapeño pepper, only to find it too mild or shockingly hot? Here’s a simple trick to help you choose the perfect jalapeño, every time.

Look for Stretch Marks

As jalapeños age, they sometimes develop white lines or flecks, known as stretch marks, running along the length of the pepper. These marks indicate the stress the pepper plant has been under, such as irregular watering, and can give you a clue about its heat level. The more lines you see, the spicier the pepper is likely to be.

In contrast, smoother peppers are younger, less stressed, and usually milder. Additionally, jalapeños will turn red if left on the plant for longer, making red jalapeños older and often hotter than green ones. They’re also sweeter, which balances out the heat.

this Recipe

How to Choose Based on Hotness

• Want less heat? Go for a green jalapeño with no stretch marks.
• Looking for fire? Grab a red or green jalapeño with plenty of striations.

Keep in mind that this is just a general rule—individual peppers can vary, so always taste-test a small piece before using it.

Know Where the Heat Is

Capsaicin, the compound responsible for a chile’s heat, is concentrated around the seeds and ribs. The flesh near the seeds will be hotter than the tip. When tasting, start with a piece from the tip to avoid an unexpected mouthful of spice!

Need Less Heat? Try This Trick

If you want to reduce the heat in your dish, cut the pepper in half and scrape out the seeds and inner ribs. Use gloves to protect your hands, and avoid touching your eyes. For more heat, simply add back some seeds when cooking.