It’s understandable why people would want to engage in a debate between jalapeno and ghost pepper. Since it is the most common pepper, most prefer to compare jalapeno peppers to others.
And these two chili peppers have certain similarities. However, there are differences between them that will help you understand how to use them.
This article performs an in-depth comparison between jalapeno and ghost pepper, examining their similarities and differences. If you plan on using both in your next meal, read this.
What are jalapeno peppers?
Jalapeno peppers are obtained from the plant species Capsicum annuum. They’re popular because they’re spicy in a subtle, delicate way. Despite its reputation as a hot pepper, the jalapeno scores poorly on the Scoville hotness scale.
In fact, it’s considered incredibly mild, only a few notches better than the harmless paprika. The city of Xalapa (sometimes spelled “Jalapa”), Veracruz, Mexico is the origin of this popular pepper.
Although this pepper is now grown worldwide, this is where the jalapeno got its name. This well-known pepper is known by several names throughout Mexico, including Gordo, Huachinango, and Cuaresmeno.
What are ghost peppers?
The ghost pepper is one of the hottest chili peppers in the world. It is commonly found in dishes that require extreme levels of spice to produce the required flavors.
These fiery peppers were first grown and used in north-west India. But their popularity has spread worldwide and they are used in several dishes, including Mexican cuisine.
In 2001, a number of academics in Mexico helped bring the ghost pepper to international prominence in a heat competition. Ghost peppers won the test and, at the time, passed as the hottest peppers in the world. Today they are considered one of the ten hottest peppers in the world.
Jalapenos vs Ghost Pepper: What’s the Difference?
Several differences separate these peppers when making a comparison between jalapeno and ghost peppers. Some of the key differences are highlighted below:
origin
The ghost pepper is native to northwestern India, while the jalapeno has its roots in Mexico and Central America.
taste
Ghost peppers are incredibly hot, but they have a sweet flavor that enhances the flavor of a meal. It’s spicy with fruity undertones that pepperheads will love.
On the other hand, jalapenos provide an extremely mild spiciness in comparison, with a warm, earthy and slightly sweet taste. They add a more subtle flavor to dishes than ghost peppers.
Used
The ghost pepper is an excellent option when you’re looking for extreme heat in your chili sauce. Interestingly, they are also used as a defensive weapon in pepper spray and chili grenades.
In contrast, jalapenos are a flavoring agent with historical culinary importance. World-famous dishes like salsa, chili, guacamole, and jalapeno poppers rely on jalapeno peppers for their flavor. Also, traditional sriracha recipes often call for red jalapeno peppers.
Conclusion
Although both are chili peppers, their differences clearly show that they cannot be used interchangeably. In making this jalapeno vs ghost pepper comparison, these traits have been highlighted to ensure you are using them appropriately.