What is serrano pepper?

Serrano Pepper Information

The serrano pepper is a type of chili pepper that originates from the mountainous regions of Puebla and Hidalgo in Mexico. It is closely related to the jalapeno pepper, but is generally smaller and significantly hotter.

• Appearance: Serrano peppers are typically 1-4 inches long and about 1/2 inch wide. They are usually bright green when unripe and mature to red, brown, yellow, or orange. The color change doesn't necessarily indicate a change in heat level.
• Heat Level: The Scoville heat units of a serrano pepper range from 10,000 to 25,000. This makes them significantly hotter than jalapenos (2,500 to 8,000 SHU) but milder than habaneros (100,000 to 350,000 SHU).
• Flavor: Serrano peppers have a bright, crisp, and slightly grassy flavor. The flavor profile is quite clean and can be easily incorporated into various dishes.
• Culinary Uses: Serranos are commonly used in Mexican cuisine and are often added to salsas, hot sauces, pickles, and other dishes for heat and flavor. They can be eaten raw, cooked, or pickled.
• Cultivation: Serrano peppers are relatively easy to grow. They prefer warm weather and well-drained soil. They are typically harvested about 80 days after planting.
• Storage: Fresh serrano peppers can be stored in the refrigerator for about 1-2 weeks. They can also be dried, pickled, or frozen for longer storage.