The Benefits of Eating Hot Peppers: Why You Should Try Our Jalapeños

Do you get a little scared of hot peppers?

We’ve noticed that many of our customers shy away from hot peppers, fearing they’ll be overwhelmed by the heat.

But we’re here to tell you that you’re missing out on some incredible flavors (and some great health benefits) if you pass up our jalapeños. 

This year at Oak Spring Farm, we’re growing a variety of jalapeño that is naturally milder, and I LOVE it!

Plus, they’re larger, making them easier to work with.  Whether you’re new to jalapeños or a seasoned pepper lover, this year’s harvest is sure to please.

Some Perspective: Why Jalapeños Aren’t as Hot as You Think

First, let’s debunk the myth that jalapeños are too hot to handle.

On the Scoville Heat Scale, which measures the heat of peppers, jalapeños fall between 2,500 and 8,000 Scoville Heat Units (SHU).

To put that into perspective, the Carolina Reaper, the hottest pepper in the world, hits a scorching 2,200,000 SHU!

On the other end, the humble bell pepper sits at 0 SHU, making it completely mild.

Compared to other common peppers like the cayenne, which ranges between 25,000 and 50,000 SHU, the jalapeño is relatively mild.

Plus, when you remove the seeds and membranes—the hottest parts of the pepper—and bake them, the heat level drops even more. What you’re left with is a flavorful pepper with just a hint of spice that’s perfect for all taste buds.

I take the seeds out of the jalapenos when I make fresh salsa because I love the flavor but don’t want all the heat.

The Health Benefits of Hot Peppers

Hot peppers, including jalapeños, are packed with health benefits. They’re rich in vitamins A and C, which offer a range of health advantages:

• Vision Health (Vitamin A): Helps maintain good vision, especially in low-light conditions.
• Immune System Support (Vitamins A & C): Both vitamins are crucial for a healthy immune system. Vitamin A helps protect against infections, while Vitamin C stimulates the production and function of white blood cells, which fight off infections.
• Skin Health (Vitamins A & C): Vitamin A promotes healthy skin by supporting new cell production and repair. Vitamin C, as an antioxidant, protects skin cells from damage and is essential for collagen production, keeping your skin youthful and aiding in wound healing.
• Reproductive Health (Vitamin A): Supports normal reproductive processes in both men and women.
• Cell Growth and Differentiation (Vitamin A): Involved in the growth and maintenance of organs and tissues.
• Antioxidant Properties (Vitamin C): Protects cells from damage caused by free radicals, reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
• Iron Absorption (Vitamin C): Enhances the absorption of non-heme iron, preventing anemia.
• Heart Health (Vitamin C): Reduces oxidative stress and inflammation, supporting cardiovascular health and improving blood vessel function.
• Capsaicin Benefits: Hot peppers, like jalapeños, contain capsaicin, the compound responsible for their heat. Capsaicin has anti-inflammatory properties, aids in digestion, and can even help with weight loss by boosting your metabolism.

Why Some Jalapeños are Hotter Than Others

Ever wondered why some jalapeños pack more heat than others? Several factors contribute to the varying levels of spiciness in jalapeños:

1. Growing Conditions: The amount of sunlight, water, and soil composition can influence the capsaicin levels in jalapeños. Drier conditions often result in hotter peppers because the plant produces more capsaicin as a defense mechanism against stress.

2. Maturity: As jalapeños mature, they become hotter. Green jalapeños are generally milder, while those that have ripened to red will have a more intense heat. The longer they stay on the plant, the hotter they get.

3. Variety: There are different strains of jalapeños, some bred for milder flavor and others for extra heat. The specific variety you pick up can also determine the level of spiciness.

4. Capsaicin Distribution: Remember, the heat in jalapeños is concentrated in the white pith and seeds inside the pepper. Sometimes, Removing these parts will make the pepper milder while leaving them in will amp up the heat.

Try Jalapeño Poppers

Jalapeño poppers are a fun and tasty way to enjoy the mild heat and rich flavor of jalapeños.

We stuff them with tangy cream cheese and shredded cheddar filling, then wrap them in bacon (or top them with a crunchy breading and garlic topping) before baking them to golden perfection. 

In just 30 minutes, you can have a plate of these irresistible jalapeño poppers ready to serve.

• ½ cup cream cheese

• ½ cup shredded sharp Cheddar cheese

• 12 jalapeno peppers, halved lengthwise, seeds and membranes removed

• 12 slices bacon

Directions

Whether you’re hosting a game night, looking for a fun appetizer, or just craving something a little different, these poppers are sure to please everyone—even those who are wary of spice.

 

Try Cowboy or Cowpoke Candy

Spice up your kitchen with some Cowboy Candy or CowPoke Candy., otherwise known as Candied Jalapeños.

These zesty treats add a kick of flavor to your favorite dishes, from barbecued pulled pork to deli-style salads. Making and sharing these spicy delights is fun and a great way to elevate your culinary adventures.

So next time you’re at the market or customizing your CSA share, don’t be afraid to pick up a few jalapeños.

Give our jalapeño recipes a try—you might just discover your new favorite snack.

Why Local and Organic Jalapeños are Better

When it comes to jalapeños, not all peppers are created equal. Choosing local and organic jalapeños offers several advantages that enhance both flavor and health benefits:

1. Fresher Taste: Local jalapeños are harvested at their peak ripeness and delivered quickly to your table. This freshness translates into a more vibrant flavor and better texture compared to jalapeños that have traveled.

2. Nutrient-Rich: Organic farming practices prioritize soil health, resulting in peppers that are rich in nutrients. Conventional peppers are a heavily sprayed crop. Organic jalapeños are grown without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers, ensuring you get a pure, nutrient-dense product. 

3. Support for Local Farmers: Buying local keeps money within your community and supports small-scale farmers who are committed to sustainable practices. It’s a way to contribute to the local economy and ensure farming remains viable in your area.

4. Environmental Benefits: Organic farming is better for the environment.  It promotes biodiversity, reduces pollution, and conserves water and soil quality. By choosing local and organic, you’re also choosing to protect our planet.

 

See you at the market!