All About Jalapeno
Your complete guide to jalapeno - discover how to store it properly, identify when it's gone bad, and find the best substitutes for your recipes.
How Long Does Jalapeno Last?
Storage times and freshness tips for jalapeno in different conditions.
Safety first: This guide provides general information. When in doubt, throw it out! Trust your senses and err on the side of caution. If something smells, looks, or tastes off, don't consume it.
Raw in Refrigerator (Whole/Uncut)1-3 weeks
Signs of Spoilage
Soft spots, wrinkling or shriveling, dulling of color, sliminess on the skin, mold growth (fuzzy white, green, or black spots), or a distinctly off-putting, sour, or musty odor.
How to Check
Visually inspect for vibrant green color and smooth, firm skin. Gently squeeze; it should feel firm, not soft or mushy. Check for any discoloration or fuzzy growth. Smell for a fresh, slightly pungent aroma; discard if it smells sour, musty, or unpleasant.
Storage Tips
Store unwashed jalapenos in a paper bag or loosely wrapped in a paper towel within the crisper drawer of your refrigerator. Avoid storing them in airtight plastic bags, as moisture can accelerate spoilage. Wash just before use.
Raw in Refrigerator (Cut/Sliced)3-5 days
Signs of Spoilage
Browning or discoloration on the cut surfaces, sliminess, loss of crispness, a noticeably sour or fermented smell, or visible mold.
How to Check
Examine cut surfaces for any browning, dark spots, or slimy film. Touch to check for excessive softness or sliminess. Smell for any off odors; it should still have a fresh, peppery scent.
Storage Tips
Store cut jalapenos in an airtight container or a sealed plastic bag in the refrigerator to prevent drying out and absorb odors from other foods. Use within a few days for best quality and safety.
Frozen (Whole or Cut)6-12 months
Signs of Spoilage
Severe freezer burn (excessive discoloration, dry leathery spots, or an overly pale appearance), an extremely strong or unpleasant off-odor (though some flavor loss is normal), or mold if not properly sealed before freezing (rare).
How to Check
Visually inspect for excessive freezer burn. While texture will be softer after thawing, it shouldn't be completely disintegrated or slimy. A quick sniff can confirm if any strong off-odors are present beyond typical frozen vegetable aroma. Note: Thawed jalapenos will be softer and best used in cooked dishes.
Storage Tips
Wash and dry jalapenos thoroughly before freezing. They can be frozen whole or sliced. For best results, spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. This prevents clumping and allows you to take out only what you need. Blanching is not typically necessary but can help preserve color and texture for very long-term storage.
Cooked in Refrigerator3-4 days
Signs of Spoilage
Visible mold, sour or fermented smell, slimy texture, or any other signs of bacterial growth.
How to Check
Visually inspect for mold or unusual colors. Smell for any off-odors. The texture should still be consistent with how it was cooked; excessive sliminess or mushiness is a red flag.
Storage Tips
Allow cooked jalapenos to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Refrigerate promptly within two hours of cooking. Reheat thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) if consuming again.