10 Best Substitutes For Jalapeño + Ratios
If you're looking for a substitute for jalapenos to replicate their unique flavor in your favorite recipes, here’s what we recommend plus ratios.
Ingredients
- Serrano Peppers: Serrano peppers are similar in heat level to jalapenos but have a slightly fruitier finish. They can be used as a substitute in most recipes that call for jalapenos in a 1:1 ratio.
- Anaheim Peppers: Anaheim peppers have a milder heat compared to jalapeno peppers making them a suitable alternative for those who prefer less warmth in their recipe. They are commonly used in dishes like chiles rellenos and salsas. Use in a 1:1 ratio.
- Poblano Peppers: These are our favorite substitutes for jalapenos. Poblano peppers have a mild to medium heat and are often roasted and used in Mexican cuisine. They are larger and have a slightly sweeter flavor compared to jalapenos. Use in a 1:1 ratio.
- Banana Peppers: Banana peppers are mild and slightly sweet making them a good substitute for jalapenos in recipes where heat is not the primary focus. They are often pickled and used in sandwiches, salads, and on pizzas. You can use the same amount or more of banana peppers to replace jalapenos.
- Cubanelle Peppers: Cubanelle peppers have a mild sweet taste and are commonly used in Latin American and Mediterranean cuisines. They are a suitable substitute for jalapenos in dishes that require a mild heat level. Use in a 1:1 ratio.
- Shishito Peppers: Shishito peppers are small mild peppers often grilled or sautéed. While they are not as spicy as jalapenos, they can add a similar smoky flavor. You may need to locate these in specialty stores or Asian supermarkets. Use a ½: 1 ratio,
- Thai Bird's Eye Chilies: Thai bird's eye chilies are much spicier than jalapenos so they should be used sparingly as a substitute. However, if you enjoy a high level of heat in your recipes, they can be a good alternative. Best measured in a ¼ ratio.
- Bell Peppers: Bell peppers so called for their bell-like shape, are not spicy at all, but they can still be used as a substitute for jalapenos if you want a mild addition. Bell peppers come in green, yellow, orange, red and even purple/brown and add a sweet and slightly tangy taste to dishes. Use these measure for measure.
- Habanero Peppers: Habanero peppers are significantly hotter than jalapenos so they should be used with caution. But if you are ready for 100,000+ scoville heat, these are readily available in stores (especially in the southern U.S.) and have quite a kick. Use in a ¼ ratio when substituting these for jalapenos, less if you are sensitive to spicy heat.
- Chipotle Peppers in Adobo Sauce: Our second favorite choice as a substitute for jalapenos chipotle peppers are jalapenos that have been smoked and dried. They are smoky with a heat that sneaks up on you, and are often sold in rich Mexican-style adobo sauce. Using chipotle peppers in adobo sauce can add a unique and intense flavor to your dishes. Substitute for jalapenos measure-for-measure.
- BONUS: Jars of pickled pepperoncini cherry peppers or banana peppers, whether whole or sliced, make a tasty alternative to pickled jalapenos. Look for “hot” on the labels for a similar level of scoville heat. Use these in a 1:1 ratio.
Instructions
- Consider what peppers you have on hand to substitute for jalapenos.
- Replace jalapenos with the pepper or peppers listed above using the ratios shown, or a combination of two or three to help recreate their unique flavor.
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!