Is Jalapeno a Fruit or a Vegetable?
Jalapenos are often debated about whether they are considered a vegetable or a fruit. This article will clarify whether a jalapeno is indeed a fruit or a vegetable.
What is a jalapeno?
Jalapenos are a spicy chili pepper from the Capsicum family, native to Central and South America. The peppers can come in different sizes from small to medium, and from green to red. That being said, jalapenos are usually considered a type of vegetable.
What is the classification?
Botanically, jalapenos are considered a type of berry, which would make them a fruit. However, they are widely classified as a vegetable by grocery stores, restaurants, and cook books. With this being said, jalapenos are most commonly referred to as vegetables.
What are some interesting facts about jalapenos?
- Jalapenes are actually a close relative to the bell pepper. Well known as a mild-tasting vegetable, the bell pepper is closer to a jalapeno on the Capsicum family than the habanero, another pepper often confused with jalapeno.
- Jalapenos can actually be quite good for you. Loaded with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, jalapenos pack a nutritious punch. Consuming jalapenos can contribute to stronger immunity, weight loss, lower blood sugar levels, and improved heart health.
- You can actually go mild on the heat. While its piquancy is a big part of its appeal, not everyone wants to take the intense heat from eating a jalapeno. To tame the heat, simply remove the seeds and the white veins.
Conclusion
To sum it up, a jalapeno is most commonly considered as a vegetable, mostly in culinary terms. Botanically, however, a jalapeno is a type of berry, making it a fruit. Eating a jalapeno can benefit your health, as they are loaded with vitamins and minerals.
