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When you\u2019re looking to add some heat to a dish, there are a lot of peppers you could reach for<\/a>. Two of the most common varieties are also pretty easy to mix up: jalape\u00f1os and serranos. They\u2019re both green and similar in size, and both can bring the heat. Plus, both jalape\u00f1o and serrano peppers can be eaten raw, pickled, or cooked. They are frequently used in many cuisines, including Mexican and Vietnamese<\/a>, and can be added to anything from guacamole<\/a> to corn muffins<\/a> (they also make great salsa<\/a>!). Here, we break down the differences between these popular peppers.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n This produce section staple is one of the most well-known spicy peppers. They\u2019re pretty small, usually between 2 and 4 inches long. When compared to hot peppers in general, they\u2019re pretty mild, with a reading on the Scoville scale of 2,500 to 10,000 (as opposed to the habanero, for example, which has an Scoville Heat Level of 150,000 to 350,000). Although they can still pack a punch.\u00a0<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n Serrano peppers are generally smaller and skinnier than jalape\u00f1os. Despite their small size, they can be up to 10 times hotter than a jalape\u00f1o, so tread carefully. <\/strong>They\u2019re often sold in their underripe green form in grocery stores, but you can also find them in yellow, orange, and red. Serranos originate in Mexico just like jalape\u00f1os and have a similar bright, fresh flavor.\u00a0<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n You sure can! These two peppers have similar, complementary flavors that make good stand-ins for each other. However, don\u2019t forget that serranos are hotter than jalape\u00f1os, so depending on your spice tolerance, you may want to adjust the amount of pepper you\u2019re using accordingly.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n Fresh peppers keep well in the refrigerator, stored inside a plastic bag, where they should keep for a week or two. Don\u2019t worry about washing them until you\u2019re ready to use them, as the addition of moisture can speed up spoilage.\u00a0<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n If you want to store fresh peppers for longer, keep them in the freezer in an airtight container or zipper-lock freezer bag. Previously frozen peppers will work well in dishes where they will be cooked, but stick with fresh peppers if you\u2019re planning to eat them raw.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nWhat Are Jalape\u00f1o Peppers?<\/h2>\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n
What Are Serrano Peppers?<\/h2>\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n
Can You Swap Jalape\u00f1os and Serranos?<\/h2>\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n