Welcome to today’s culinary class, where we’re diving into the bold and versatile jalapeño Chile pepper! A staple in Mexican cuisine, the jalapeño (Capsicum annuum var. annuum) is a medium-sized chili pepper known for its vibrant green color, mild-to-moderate heat, and incredible ability to enhance dishes. Named after Xalapa (also spelled Jalapa), the capital city of Veracruz, Mexico, this pepper brings both flavor and spice to the table. In this lesson, we'll explore the different ways to prepare and incorporate jalapeños into your cooking, from roasting and pickling to stuffing and blending them into salsas. Whether you're looking to add a fiery kick or a smoky depth to your dishes, understanding how to handle and balance jalapeño heat will take your culinary skills to the next level. Let’s get started!