Jalapeno Grande

Jalapeno Grande – an extra-large, flavourful jalapeño for gourmets

What makes Jalapeno Grande special

Jalapeno Grande is one of the largest jalapeño varieties on the market. With its impressive size, thick flesh and moderate heat it is bred specifically to suit stuffing, grilling and preserving. A true gourmet variety for anyone who wants plenty of chilli to work with.

Background and name

The variety was developed as a further development of the classic jalapeño with a focus on increased pod size and improved resistance. The name ‘Grande’ of course refers to both the size of the pod and the big character of the flavour – this is a jalapeño that takes up space.

Appearance and growth habit

The plants grow sturdy and reach a height of up to 90 cm. They produce large numbers of pods 10–12 cm long in a beautiful deep green that ripens to red. They are thick-walled, meaty and very juicy – ideal for dishes that need a larger volume of chilli.

Estimated Scoville heat

Approx. 5,000 – 7,000 SHU

Flavour and uses

The flavour is balanced with mild to medium heat, a classically fruity jalapeño tone and a light sweetness when the pod is red. Green, it is crisp and fresh – excellent for stuffing or using raw in salads and salsas. The thick pod wall holds its shape well when cooked.

Ways to use Jalapeno Grande

• Stuff with cream cheese, bacon and spices – grill or bake in the oven

• Slice and pickle for burgers or wraps

• Make homemade jalapeño burgers with extra sting

• Perfect for big batches of jalapeño ketchup or hot sauce

How to grow Jalapeno Grande

Jalapeno Grande belongs to Capsicum annuum. Sow your chilli seeds between February and April. The variety is easy to grow, fast-growing and gives a very high yield. Does best in a greenhouse but also does well in larger pots outdoors in summer. Tolerates pruning and topping for bushier growth.

The price is for 6 chilli seeds

Sow in moist seed compost and keep warm, at about 25–30°C for best germination The compost should be moist but not wet. A propagator helps to keep the air humid. Once the seedlings have grown a little and developed their second pair of leaves, you can lower the temperature to about 20°C and take them out of the propagator. They do well on a sunny windowsill, in a greenhouse and outdoors in summer. For best results, soak the seeds in Growhelper for 12–24 hours before sowing.