Jalapeno peppers are kitchen essentials found in cuisines around the globe. From adding a kick to your nachos to spicing up your salsa, jalapenos bring the heat and flavor. But before you stock up, let’s talk about their shelf life—how long do jalapeno peppers last?
Jalapenos usually boast a rich, deep green hue and typically reach approximately two to three inches long. But as they mature, they can sometimes turn red, purple, or other vibrant colors.
You will find options to purchase them fresh and complete in the produce section, or you can discover them canned, sliced, or even pickled in the supermarket aisles. On that note, how do you decide which jalapeno peppers to pick out?
Tips On Picking Out Jalapeno Peppers
First, we discuss picking the perfect jalapeno pepper at the grocery store. You want to look for jalapeno peppers that are firm, shiny, and free from wrinkles or blemishes. If you are feeling adventurous and looking for an extra spicy kick, go for the ones with a few cracks on the surface – those tend to pack a bit more heat. But if you are not in the mood for an extra spicy experience, the best choice is to stick to the smooth ones.
How Long Do Jalapeno Peppers Last?
How long can you expect your jalapeno peppers to hang around? The answer to that is: it depends on where you store them.
At room temperature, jalapenos can last for about a week. Remember to keep them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
The fridge is the best place to put them in if you want them to be around longer. Storing them in the refrigerator extends their shelf life from two to three weeks.
And if you are looking for the long haul, pop those jalapenos in the freezer, tightly wrapped and sealed, of course. They can last for around 6 to 12 months there. You will then have a stash of jalapenos ready whenever you need them. Just remember that freezing affects the texture, and they don’t come out plump and shiny. They will be best chopped, diced, or sliced for cooking or pickling.
Tips For Storing Jalapeno Peppers at Room Temperature
If you plan to use your jalapenos within a week, storing them at room temperature is your go-to move. Just make sure to keep them away from sunlight and moisture.
A corner of your kitchen counter or pantry out of direct sun is a great spot. Remember, these peppers like it cool, but not cold.
Tips For Storing Jalapeno Peppers In The Refrigerator
Alright, let’s talk about extending their lifespan in more detail. There is a trick in storing them in the refrigerator.
First, place them in a plastic bag and poke a few holes to give them breathing room. Doing this will keep them happy and crisp for up to three weeks.
Tips For Freezing Jalapeno Peppers
Say you went a little crazy at the farmer’s market and bought more jalapenos than you can handle, or your neighbor brought you a garbage bag full from their garden. Freezing jalapenos is the solution to this problem right here.
To freeze them properly to keep their qualities maintained for as long as possible, here are some steps for you:
- First, wash and dry those peppers thoroughly.
- Next, slice or chop them according to your recipe’s needs.
- Lay them on a baking sheet and pop them in the freezer until they become solid.
- Finally, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. Now, you have a stash of jalapenos for months, ready to bring the heat to your dishes.
Signs of Spoilage
Okay, we’ve covered how to store them, but what if you’ve lost track of time and your peppers have seen better days? How can you tell if they’re past their prime?
Well, I will give you a quick checklist to identify efficiently and adequately if it is no longer safe to consume them:
Check their colors
Look out for color changes. If they start turning dull or dark, it’s time to say goodbye.
Touch Them
If they feel soft or mushy instead of firm, it’s a sign that they are nearly spoiled.
Smell Them
Trust your nose! If the vibrant jalapeno smell has turned into something funky, it’s time to toss them into the trash bin.
The bottom line
There you have it—the lowdown on how long do jalapenos last. From room temperature to the fridge and even the icy confines of your freezer, you’ve got options to keep those spicy delights at their best.
Remember, understanding how to store your produce is essential knowledge. So go ahead, bring on the spice, and let those jalapeno peppers shine—make sure they’re still fresh and vibrant when they hit your plate.
More About Jalapenos
- Substitute For Jalapenos + Ratios
- 65 Best Recipes That Use Jalapenos
- 30 Jalapeno Appetizers
- Recipe For Jalapeno Cheddar Cornbread
How Long Do Jalapeno Peppers Last? + Quick Tips For Freezing
Let’s look at how long jalapenos last and some info for storing and freezing them for longest shelf life.
Ingredients
- Fresh jalapeno peppers
- Water and kitchen towel for cleaning the jalapenos
- Baking sheet
- Airtight container with lid or freezer baggies
Instructions
- First, wash and dry those peppers thoroughly.
- Next, slice or chop them according to your recipe’s needs.
- Lay them on a baking sheet and pop them in the freezer until they become solid.
- Finally, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag.
Notes
You can freeze one or two at a time in small snack baggies so that you don’t thaw the whole batch when you only need one at a time.