Jalapeno powder is made from dried and ground jalapeno peppers and is a spicy and flavorful ingredient used in many cuisines. It can be used to add heat and a distinct flavor to dishes like chili, tacos, fajitas, soups, marinades, rubs, and more.
When looking for the best jalapeno powder to buy, there are a few key things to consider:
- Heat level - Jalapeno powders can range from mild to very spicy. Consider how much heat you want to add.
- Flavor - Make sure to get a powder with good jalapeno flavor, not just heat.
- Quality - Look for powders made from fresh, ripe jalapenos that are properly dried and ground. Avoid fillers.
- Origin - Jalapeno powder can come from different countries. Mexican jalapeno powder is considered high quality.
- Certifications - Some jalapeno powders are certified organic, non-GMO, kosher, etc.
- Uses - Think about how you plan to use it. Some are better for finishing, others for cooking.
With so many options on the market, we will walk through what to look for when buying jalapeno powder and recommend the best brands and products.
Badia Jalapeno Powder
This jalapeno powder offers a lot of flavor and kick to recipes. It is made from ripe jalapeño peppers that are sun-dried, hand-picked, and finely crushed and ground. This helps enhance any dish it's added to.
The jalapeno powder contains no anti-caking agents or other additives, just pure jalapeno. It provides a nice fruity, spicy flavor that can range from mild to high heat depending on how much you use. Just a little can add some warmth while a lot provides a spicy kick.
It's an authentic Mexican ingredient that works great in salsa, chili, tacos, soups, stews, and more. The jalapenos are grown and harvested in Mexico so they offer genuine flavor. This powder allows you to easily add jalapeno heat and taste to recipes without the hassle of prepping fresh peppers.
Key Features:
- Sun-dried, hand-picked jalapeno peppers
- Finely crushed and ground
- Adds fruity, spicy flavor
- No anti-caking agents or additives
What We Like:
- Authentic Mexican ingredient
- Provides nice heat and jalapeno taste
- Enhances salsa, chili, tacos, soups, stews
- Convenient alternative to fresh jalapenos
Amazing Chiles & Spices Jalapeno Powder
Amazing Chiles & Spices' jalapeno powder delivers robust flavor and heat to recipes. It's made from ripe jalapenos dried and harvested in Mexico, providing authentic taste. The peppers are sun-dried, hand-picked, and finely crushed into a powder.
This premium jalapeno powder has a nice fruity, spicy flavor perfect for enhancing Mexican dishes. It can range from mild to high heat depending on the amount used. Just a little provides some warmth while a lot packs some spice.
It's a staple ingredient in authentic Mexican cooking that works well in salsa, chili, tacos, spice blends, stews, and more. The jalapenos are naturally grown and harvested by local farmers in Mexico. This ensures maximum freshness and authentic flavor.
Key Features:
- Sun-dried and hand-picked jalapenos
- Finely crushed into powder
- Grown and harvested in Mexico
- Delivers robust flavor and heat
What We Like:
- Provides authentic Mexican taste
- Nice fruity, spicy flavor
- Enhances salsa, chili, tacos, stews
- Convenient alternative to fresh jalapenos
The Spice Way Jalapeno Powder
The Spice Way's jalapeno powder delivers a nice spicy kick and flavor to recipes. It's made from pure dried jalapeno peppers that are finely ground into powder. The jalapenos provide a heat level of 2,500-5,000 Scoville units.
This jalapeno powder contains no anti-caking agents or additives, just pure crushed jalapeno. It works well for seasoning various proteins like chicken, pork, beef, fish and game. It can also be added to spice rubs, salsa, tacos, soups, stews and more to add spicy flavor.
The powder is packed fresh so you get optimal quality and taste. It has no preservatives or MSG. The Spice Way sells over 300 all-natural spices and blends with no fillers. This jalapeno powder allows you to conveniently add spicy jalapeno flavor to dishes.
Key Features:
- Made from pure dried jalapenos
- Finely ground into powder
- Adds nice spicy kick and flavor
- No anti-caking agents or additives
What We Like:
- Provides pure jalapeno taste
- Works well on meats, in salsa, tacos
- Convenient way to add heat and flavor
- Packed fresh for optimal quality
Spiceology Jalapeno Powder
Spiceology's jalapeno powder brings a spicy kick and great flavor to recipes. It's an all-purpose ground spice made from pure jalapeno peppers. The jalapeno powder provides 2,500-5,000 Scoville heat units.
This jalapeno powder contains no additives, just the dried jalapeno peppers and a small amount of anti-caking agent. It's perfect for seasoning proteins like beef, chicken, pork, fish and lamb. It can also add heat and taste to spice rubs, salsa, tacos, soups and stews.
Spiceology sells over 300 all-natural spices with no fillers or MSG. Their jalapeno powder allows you to conveniently add authentic jalapeno flavor and heat to dishes. It's packed fresh so you get optimal quality and taste.
Key Features:
- Made from pure dried jalapenos
- Provides 2,500-5,000 Scoville heat units
- No additives besides small amount of anti-caking agent
What We Like:
- Adds nice heat and jalapeno flavor
- Great for seasoning proteins and spice rubs
- Convenient way to add taste and kick to recipes
- Packed fresh for optimal quality
Unpretentious Jalapeno Powder
Unpretentious Baker's jalapeno powder is perfect for adding heat and flavor to recipes. It has a nice spicy kick and the taste of fresh jalapenos. Just a little bit can enhance the flavor of Tex-Mex dishes, soups, salsas, meat dishes, and more.
This convenient jalapeno powder comes in a shaker jar for easy use. It's made from pure jalapeno peppers and contains no additives. The powder is non-GMO and vegan.
A small amount of this flavorful seasoning provides a good amount of heat. You can control the spiciness by using more or less powder. It brings authentic jalapeno taste to enchiladas, tacos, chili, and various Mexican foods.
Key Features:
- Made from pure jalapeno peppers
- Contains no additives
- Non-GMO and vegan
- Convenient shaker jar
What We Like:
- Adds nice heat and jalapeno flavor
- Enhances Tex-Mex dishes and salsa
- Easy to sprinkle on foods
- Provides authentic spicy taste
D'allesandro Jalapeno Powder
D'allesandro's jalapeno powder allows you to easily add bold, spicy jalapeno flavor to dishes. It's made by finely grinding jalapeno peppers into a convenient powder. This chili powder has a bright yellow-green color.
The jalapeno powder provides a nice balanced heat along with the fresh taste of the peppers. It contains 8,000 to 30,000 Scoville heat units for a medium spice level. Just use more or less to control the heat.
This versatile seasoning is perfect for Mexican and Southwestern style cooking. It can be sprinkled on tacos, enchiladas, chili, salsa, moles, and more. Also try it on meats, carne asada, and vegetables.
Key Features:
- Made from ground jalapeno peppers
- Has balanced heat and fresh flavor
- Provides 8,000 to 30,000 Scoville units
- Works well in Mexican cuisine
What We Like:
- Allows you to easily add jalapeno taste
- Nice medium heat level
- Good for tacos, salsa, chili, meats
- Convenient alternative to fresh peppers
Birch & Meadow Jalapeno Powder
Birch & Meadow's jalapeno powder provides a convenient way to add bold, spicy jalapeno flavor to dishes. It's made by drying and finely grinding jalapeno peppers into a powder. This allows you to easily incorporate their heat and taste into recipes.
Just sprinkle the jalapeno powder on meats, tacos, chili, soups, salsa and more to give them a flavorful kick. It's great for Tex-Mex style cooking and adding heat to various foods. You control the spiciness based on how much powder you use.
This chili powder contains nothing but pure jalapeno pepper. It has an alluring bright green color and smells fresh. Birch & Meadow uses quality ingredients packaged in the USA for their jalapeno powder.
Key Features:
- Made from ground dried jalapenos
- Adds heat and flavor to recipes
- Works well in Tex-Mex cuisine
- Allows you to control spiciness
What We Like:
- Provides pure jalapeno taste
- Convenient alternative to fresh peppers
- Easy way to add kick to dishes
- Nice, fresh smell and color
Judee's Jalapeno Powder
Judee's jalapeno powder brings authentic spicy heat and flavor to recipes. It's made by drying fresh jalapenos and grinding them into a fine powder. This allows you to easily add the taste of jalapenos without the hassle.
The jalapeno powder ranges from mild to hot heat depending on how much you use. Just a little sprinkled on dishes provides a nice kick while more brings intense spice. It has a wonderful pure jalapeno flavor.
This seasoning is great for enhancing eggs, popcorn, cheese sauces, dips, spice rubs, and various dishes. It's convenient to use and allows you to avoid waste from fresh jalapenos going bad. Judee's uses quality ingredients to make this gluten-free, non-GMO powder.
Key Features:
- Made from dried, ground jalapenos
- Provides authentic taste and heat
- Allows you to control spiciness
- Gluten-free and non-GMO
What We Like:
- Adds nice jalapeno flavor to recipes
- Avoids waste compared to fresh peppers
- Easy way to add heat to many foods
- Quality ingredients and production
Bolner's Fiesta Jalapeno Pepper Powder
Bolner's Fiesta Extra Fancy "Texas TNT" Ground Jalapeno Pepper Powder is a spicy and flavorful ground jalapeno powder. It provides a nice spicy jalapeno flavor with a bit of saltiness. This 2 ounce jar contains a fine powder made from dried and ground jalapeno peppers.
Use this powder to add heat and flavor to a variety of dishes like eggs, popcorn, potatoes, chicken, and more. It provides a good jalapeno kick while still having nice flavor. Mix it into recipes or sprinkle it on top of finished dishes.
Key Features:
- Made from ground jalapeno peppers
- Provides spicy heat and jalapeno flavor
- Versatile to use in many recipes
- Fine powder in a 2 ounce jar
What We Like:
- Adds nice jalapeno flavor with a spicy kick
- Easy to sprinkle on dishes or mix into recipes
- Jar keeps the powder fresh
- Reviewers use it in many types of recipes
SPICES VILLAGE Jalapeno Powder
![SPICES VILLAGE Jalapeno Powder [6 oz] - Ground Jalapeno Pepper, Natural Spicy and Flavorful Jalapeno Seasoning, Great For Chili, Salsa, Spice Blends, Stews, Tacos, Guacamole - Kosher, Gluten Free, Non GMO, Resealable Bulk Bag](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51lxfAVpwsL._SL75_.jpg)
The Spices Village Ground Jalapeno Powder is an all-natural, additive-free jalapeno seasoning. Made from pure jalapeno peppers, this 6 ounce bulk bag contains a flavorful and moderately spicy powder.
This jalapeno powder pairs well with many dishes and ingredients. Use it in chili, eggs, dips, barbecue rubs, and more. It provides nice heat and true jalapeno flavor. The resealable bag keeps the powder fresh.
Key Features:
- 100% pure ground jalapeno powder
- All-natural with no additives
- Provides spicy heat and jalapeno flavor
- Resealable 6 ounce bulk bag
What We Like:
- Adds authentic spicy jalapeno flavor
- Easy to use in recipes or as seasoning
- Bulk bag keeps powder fresh
- Versatile for many cuisines and dishes
Best Jalapeno Powders Comparison Table
A comparison table of some of the top jalapeno powders:
| Brand | Heat Level | Flavor Profile | Origin | Certifications |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Badia | Medium heat | Authentic, fruity | Mexico | Non-GMO |
| Amazing Chiles & Spices | Medium to hot | Robust, fruity | Mexico | n/a |
| The Spice Way | Medium heat | Pure, spicy | n/a | n/a |
| Spiceology | Medium heat | Pure, spicy | n/a | n/a |
| Unpretentious Baker | Medium heat | Pure, spicy | n/a | Non-GMO, vegan |
| D'allesandro | Medium heat | Fresh jalapeno | n/a | n/a |
| Birch & Meadow | Medium heat | Pure jalapeno | USA | n/a |
| Judee's | Mild to hot | Authentic jalapeno | n/a | Non-GMO, gluten-free |
| Bolner's Fiesta | Medium heat | Spicy, salty | n/a | n/a |
| Spices Village | Medium heat | Pure jalapeno | n/a | All-natural |
Buying Guide for Jalapeno Powder
When looking to purchase jalapeno powder, here are the key factors to consider:
Heat Level
Jalapeno powders can range from mild to extremely spicy depending on the peppers used and how they are processed. Consider how much heat you want to add to your dishes. Here are some guidelines on scoville units (a measure of spiciness):
- Mild - 2,500 to 5,000 SHU - adds a slight kick without being too hot
- Medium - 5,000 to 10,000 SHU - moderate heat level
- Hot - 10,000 to 20,000 SHU - very spicy but not overpowering
- Extra Hot - 20,000+ SHU - for extreme heat lovers
If you're sensitive to spice, go for a milder jalapeno powder. For a bigger kick of heat, choose a hotter variety. Look at the scoville rating on the package to determine heat level.
Flavor Profile
Spiciness isn't everything. You also want an authentic jalapeno flavor. The powder should taste like fresh jalapeno peppers, not just heat.
Look for powders made from ripe, red jalapenos. Green unripe jalapenos can taste more bitter. The powder should smell fresh, not musty. Dark brown color usually indicates a more earthy, smokey taste.
Avoid cheap powders with weak jalapeno flavor and strange chemical aftertaste. Pay a little more for quality.
Quality and Freshness
Look for jalapeno powder made from fresh, high-quality peppers, not old or preserved ones. They should be dried properly and finely ground into a powder, not chunks.
Avoid powders with seeds, stems and other debris as this affects flavor and indicates poor processing. The powder should flow freely without clumping.
Also check the expiration date and best by date. Since powders lose flavor over time, fresher is better. Buy small batches you can use up quicker after opening.
Origin and Brand
Jalapeno powder from Mexico is typically considered superior in quality and flavor. Major brands producing Mexican jalapeno powder include El Yucateco, Del Fuerte, and Dona Maria.
Some good USA-made brands are Spice Islands, McCormick Gourmet, and OliveNation. You can also find small batch jalapeno powders from spice companies and local producers.
Stick to reputable brands and read reviews to help find high quality and authentic jalapeno flavor.
Certifications
Some jalapeno powders have certifications like:
- Organic - grown without pesticides or synthetic fertilizers
- Non-GMO - made from non-genetically modified peppers
- Kosher - prepared following Jewish dietary laws
- Gluten free - does not contain gluten
- Fair trade - supports fair wages for farmers
So check for these certifications if you want jalapeno powder aligned with your dietary needs or values.
Intended Use
Think about how you plan to use the jalapeno powder. Some are better for finishing dishes or sprinkling on top while more robust powders work better for cooking.
Finishing powders should be very fine and pour easily. Robust powders can have more texture and heat tolerance. Read the package description to see what the jalapeno powder is best used for.
Consider when you will add it too. Milder jalapeno powder can be added at the start of cooking. Save very spicy powders for finishing to prevent overpowering heat.
FAQs
Is jalapeno powder the same as chili powder?
No, they are made from different pepper varieties. Jalapeno powder contains only jalapeno peppers. Chili powder contains a blend of chili peppers and other seasonings like cumin, garlic, and oregano.
What's the difference between smoked and regular jalapeno powder?
Smoked jalapeno powder is made from jalapenos that are smoked before being dried and ground. This gives it a deeper, woodsy, barbecue-like flavor. Regular jalapeno powder has a brighter, fresher taste.
What dishes can I use jalapeno powder in?
Jalapeno powder is very versatile. Use it in tacos, fajitas, chili, salsa, guacamole, dressings, sauces, marinades, rubs, spice blends, and more. It's great in Mexican, Tex-Mex, Indian, and American cuisine.
Is it better to get mild or spicy jalapeno powder?
It depends on your taste preferences and heat tolerance. Mild powders (2,500-5,000 SHU) provide flavor with a gentle kick. Hotter powders (10,000-30,000 SHU) bring intense spicy heat. Assess your goals for using it.
What's a good substitution if I don't have jalapeno powder?
You can substitute cayenne pepper or chili powder, but the flavor won't be the same. For more authentic jalapeno taste, use jarred sliced jalapenos or make your own powder from fresh jalapenos.
How should I store jalapeno powder after opening?
Keep it in an airtight container in a cool, dry, dark place. Avoid humidity and heat. Properly stored, it will maintain good flavor for 6 months to 1 year. Smell and taste test old powder before using.
Can I use jalapeno powder that has clumped or hardened?
It's best to avoid old, hardened powder as it loses potency. But you can break up the clumps and use in cooking as flavor may still come through. Don't use if powder smells bitter, burnt or rancid.
Is jalapeno powder gluten-free?
Yes, pure jalapeno powder without additives is naturally gluten-free. But check labels to be sure the brand you buy is not processed with wheat. Reputable gluten-free brands will be certified.
Conclusion
Jalapeno powder is an easy way to add a flavorful kick of heat to your cooking. Look for powders made from fresh, ripe jalapenos with an authentic flavor and scent. Consider the intensity you want and how you plan to use it.
Quality Mexican brands provide the best traditional taste but you can find good products from spice companies too. Store properly in an airtight container.
Resources:
- GoToChef: This website provides information on Jalapeno Powder, including its uses and nutritional value. It also includes a link to another website with more information on the topic. Link
- Kitchen Divas: This website provides a recipe for making Jalapeno Powder at home, as well as suggestions for how to use it in various dishes. Link
- Chieftain Wild Rice: This website sells Jalapeno Powder and provides information on its ingredients and nutritional value. Link
- Spiceology: This website sells Jalapeno Powder and provides recipe ideas for using it in Mexican cuisine. It also includes information on the flavor profile and heat level of the powder. Link
- Mountain Rose Herbs: This website sells Jalapeno Powder and provides information on its flavor profile and suggested uses. It also includes information on the plant from which the powder is made. Link