Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Jalapeno: meaning, definitions and examples

🌶️
Add to dictionary

jalapeno

 

[ˌhɑːləˈpeɪnjoʊ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

spicy pepper

Jalapeño is a variety of chili pepper that is cultivated as an edible pepper. It is typically harvested while still green, but can also be allowed to ripen to a red color. The jalapeño is known for its moderately spicy heat, which ranges from 2,500 to 8,000 Scoville heat units. It is commonly used in Mexican cuisine, enjoyed in salsas, stuffed, or roasted. The jalapeño has become popular around the world for its unique flavor and heat, making it a staple ingredient in many dishes.

Synonyms

chili pepper, pepper, pimiento.

Examples of usage

  • I added jalapeño to the salsa for extra heat.
  • The restaurant offers a jalapeño popper appetizer.
  • She loves to spice up her tacos with sliced jalapeño.
  • Jalapeños can be pickled for a tangy flavor.
  • We grilled some burgers topped with fresh jalapeño slices.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The name 'jalapeno' comes from 'Xalapa', a city in Mexico where this pepper was originally cultivated.
  • In Spanish, 'jalapeño' is pronounced with a soft 'j' and a tilde over the 'n', reflecting its cultural roots.
  • This pepper is part of the Capsicum annuum species, which encompasses various chili peppers, bell peppers, and more.

Culinary Uses

  • Jalapenos are often pickled, giving many dishes a tangy flavor alongside the heat.
  • They can be eaten fresh, roasted, stuffed with cheese, or blended into sauces.
  • Capsaicin gives jalapenos their heat, and surprising health benefits include improving metabolism and aiding digestion.

Cultural Significance

  • In Mexican culture, jalapenos are a staple ingredient, used in salsas and traditional dishes.
  • They are celebrated in events like the Jalapeño Festival in Texas, showcasing food, music, and culture around this pepper.
  • A popular dish featuring jalapenos is 'jalapeño poppers' – a favorite at parties and gatherings.

Scientific Perspective

  • The heat of jalapenos is measured in Scoville Heat Units (SHU), typically ranging from 2,500 to 8,000 SHU.
  • Research suggests that capsaicin may have health benefits, including pain relief and anti-inflammatory properties.
  • Jalapenos are a good source of vitamins C and B6, providing nutritional benefits along with their spicy flavor.

Pop Culture

  • The jalapeno has made its way into pop culture, featured in films and TV shows, often symbolizing spicy or adventurous choices.
  • In advertising, jalapeno is often used to convey a bold flavor profile, appealing to those who love heat in their meals.
  • Labels on food products often highlight jalapenos to attract fans of spicy food and adventurous eaters.

Translations

Translations of the word "jalapeno" in other languages:

🇵🇹 jalapeño

🇮🇳 जालापेनो

🇩🇪 Jalapeño

🇮🇩 jalapeño

🇺🇦 халапеньйо

🇵🇱 jalapeño

🇯🇵 ハラペーニョ

🇫🇷 jalapeño

🇪🇸 jalapeño

🇹🇷 jalapeño

🇰🇷 할라피뇨

🇸🇦 هالبينو

🇨🇿 jalapeño

🇸🇰 jalapeño

🇨🇳 哈拉佩尼奥

🇸🇮 jalapeño

🇮🇸 jalapeño

🇰🇿 халапеньо

🇬🇪 ხალაპენიო

🇦🇿 jalapeño

🇲🇽 jalapeño

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #37,364, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.