Do you love the taste of jalapeno peppers but don’t love the heat they bring? Are jalapenos not in season and do you need a substitute for your recipe? Or are you just looking for a different flavor profile when it comes to jalapeno seasoning?
No problem!
In this article, we will provide a list of 14 substitutes that you can use to get the same flavor. We’ll also explain the differences and similarities between the substitutes, so you can make an informed decision when choosing one.
Plus, we’ll give you the exact ratios to use as a replacement, as well as some examples of how we’ve used them ourselves.
So whether you can’t find jalapeno seasoning or just don’t want to spend the money, these substitutes will come in handy!
Jalapeno Seasoning Substitutes
- Bell peppers
- Poblano peppers
- Banana peppers
- Cubanelle pepper
- Pepperoncini
- Anaheim peppers
- Smoked paprika powder
- Pickled jalapenos
- Fresno peppers
- Fresh cayenne peppers
- Cayenne pepper powder
- Serrano peppers
- Habanero peppers
- Hot sauce
Bell peppers
Bell peppers are a widely available substitute for jalapeno seasoning. They can be stuffed, roasted, grilled, and used in pizza and sandwich toppings.
While they lack the heat of jalapenos, bell peppers provide a similar flavor profile that can enhance the taste of many dishes.
In addition, bell peppers are a good source of vitamins A and C. This makes them a healthy option for those looking to add more nutrients to their diet.
Overall, bell peppers make a great substitute for jalapeno seasoning and can be used in a variety of dishes.
Poblano peppers
Poblano peppers are a variety of chili pepper used in Mexican cuisine. They are typically quite mild, with a Scoville rating of 1000-1500. This makes them a good substitute for jalapeño peppers, which have a Scoville rating of 3000-6000 and can be quite spicy.
Poblano peppers can be used in a variety of dishes, including fried foods like chiles Rellenos. When used as a replacement for jalapeños, they add a delicious flavor without being too spicy.
They can be fried, stuffed, or roasted. So if you’re looking for a milder flavor, try using poblano peppers instead of jalapeños in your next dish!
Banana peppers
Banana peppers are sweet and tangy pepper that packs a mild to moderate punch. This makes them the perfect alternative for those who can’t handle the heat of traditional jalapeno peppers.
With a Scoville rating of 0-500, banana peppers provide just enough spice to give dishes an extra zing without setting your mouth on fire. They’re often used in salsa, as well as other Tex-Mex dishes like fajitas and quesadillas.
So if you’re looking for a milder option to add some flavor to your food, reach for banana peppers instead of jalapenos.
Cubanelle pepper
The Cubanelle pepper is a less spicy substitute for the Jalapeno pepper. It measures 100-1000 on the Scoville scale, making it a milder option.
The Cubanelle pepper also has a high vitamin C content. This makes it a good choice for those looking for a nutritional boost.
In addition, the Cubanelle pepper is good for poultry dishes and stir-fried. And can be used as a replacement for Jalapeno seasoning.
The benefits of using the Cubanelle pepper as a substitute for Jalapeno seasoning include less spice and more nutrition. As a result, the Cubanelle pepper is a good choice for those looking for a milder flavor or a nutritional boost.
Pepperoncini
Pepperoncini are a mild, sweet chili pepper that are often used as a condiment or seasoning. They typically measure 100-600 on the Scoville scale. This makes them significantly milder than jalapeno peppers.
Pepperoncini also offer some nutritional benefits, as they are a good source of fiber and calcium.
In many cases, pepperoncini can be used as an excellent substitute for jalapeno peppers. For example, if you are making pizza salsa and you want a milder flavor, you can swap out the jalapeños for pepperoncini. The result will be a delicious, mildly-spiced salsa that everyone can enjoy.
Additionally, because pepperoncini are so mild, they can be used to add flavor to dishes without adding any heat.
So if you’re looking for a way to add some zest to your cooking without turning up the heat, pepperoncini may be the perfect ingredient for you.
Anaheim peppers
Anaheim peppers are a good substitute for jalapeno seasoning. They range from 500-to 5000 on the Scoville scale, so they have a moderate amount of spice. Additionally, their skin is thicker, so they’re good for salsa and nacho toppings.
Some benefits of using Anaheim peppers as a substitute for jalapeno seasoning include: they don’t have as much heat. So you can add more to achieve the desired spice level.
And they don’t need to be seeded. So they’re less work to prepare.
Smoked paprika powder
Are you looking for an easy-to-store substitute for jalapeno powder that delivers a milder flavor? Smoked paprika is a good option.
It’s made from dried, ground peppers that fall somewhere between 2,500 and 10,000 on the Scoville scale. This means it’s not as fiery as some other chili powders. Additionally, smoked paprika has a versatility that makes it a great addition to many different recipes.
Are you making a big batch of chili or simply seasoning some roasted potatoes? This powder is sure to add a touch of flavor without overwhelming the dish.
Pickled jalapenos
Pickled jalapenos is a great substitute for Jalapeno seasoning for many reasons. Firstly, both of these ingredients have similar taste profiles.
Secondly, pickled jalapenos are easier to store than jalapeno seasoning. Because they are stored in brine, the pickled jalapenos last way longer.
However, the pickled jalapenos do add a vinegary taste to the dish. So, you need to be cautious of the salt that you use in your recipe. As a rule of thumb, when using pickled jalapenos, lessen the amount of salt that the recipe asks for.
Fresno peppers
Many people enjoy the flavor of jalapeno peppers, but they can be quite spicy. If you’re looking for a great alternative that has a similar taste profile but is less spicy, try using Fresno peppers.
Fresno peppers are a type of chili pepper that is closely related to jalapeno. They have a crispy texture and a slightly sweet flavor with hints of citrus.
While they are not as fiery as jalapenos, they still pack a bit of heat. When substituting Fresno peppers for jalapenos, you may want to start with half the amount and then adjust to taste.
Overall, Fresno peppers make a great alternative to jalapenos and can be used in many of the same dishes.
Fresh cayenne peppers
Cayenne peppers are very spicy, and their sweet smokey flavor skin is very similar to that of jalapenos. Additionally, cayenne peppers can be used in cooking just like jalapenos, making them a very versatile spice.
There are many benefits to using cayenne peppers as a substitute for jalapeno seasoning. First, they add a very intense level of heat to food.
Second, they have a very unique flavor that can really enhance the taste of certain dishes. Finally, they are very easy to find and relatively inexpensive.
For those who like their food very spicy, cayenne peppers can be a great alternative to jalapeno seasoning.
Cayenne pepper powder
When it comes to spice, cayenne pepper powder is one of the best substitutes for jalapeno seasoning. This is because cayenne powder does not alter the texture of the dish, and it has a similar heat level to jalapeno peppers.
It scores 30000-50000 on the Scoville scale. This means that the cayenne pepper powder is even spicier than jalapenos. In fact, you may even want to use less cayenne pepper powder than the recipe calls for.
Overall, cayenne pepper powder is a great way to add some extra heat to your dishes without changing the flavor or texture.
Serrano peppers
Like jalapenos, serranos are part of the capsicum family and have a high concentration of capsaicin. This compound gives peppers their heat.
As a result, serranos add a similar level of spice to dishes as jalapenos. However, they tend to be even hotter, with a Scoville score of 10,000-30,000.
Additionally, serranos are easier to digest than jalapenos, making them a good choice for people with sensitive stomachs.
Serrano peppers can be used in a variety of dishes, including salsa and salads. When substituting serranos for jalapenos, use them less. This will ensure that your dish has the same level of spice as it would with jalapenos.
Habanero peppers
If you can’t handle the heat, then you might want to rethink your relationship with habanero peppers. These little tropical fruits pack a serious punch.
They rate anywhere from 300,000 to 445,000 on the Scoville scale. That makes them about 100 times hotter than a jalapeno pepper.
So, why would anyone want to use them as a substitute for jalapeno seasoning?
Well, when used judiciously, habanero peppers can add a unique flavor to salsa, nachos, and sauces. They can also give an ordinary dish a touch of heat that will tantalize the taste buds.
Just be sure to use them sparingly, as a little goes a long way.
Hot sauce
Hot sauce is easily available, lasts longer, and is easy to store. Plus, it packs a punch. With a Scoville rating of 50000, it’s sure to give your dishes a little extra heat.
Add it to salsa or use it as a dipping sauce for chicken wings. You can also use it to spice up chili or add some zest to your homemade guacamole.
However you use it, hot sauce is a versatile ingredient that can add some serious flavor to your favorite recipes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best jalapeno seasoning to use in guacamole?
The best jalapeno seasoning to use in guacamole is hot sauce. As the sauce is quite spicy, it gives the dip heat. You would not have to use the hot sauce as much so the guacamole texture will remain the same.
In conclusion
There are many jalapeno seasoning substitutes that can add the same flavor to your dishes. Just be sure to adjust the amount you use, as some of these substitutes are much spicier than jalapenos. With a little trial and error, you’ll find the perfect substitute for your needs.