If you’re unsure whether a jalapeno is bad, there are a few telltale signs to look for. First, check the skin of the pepper. If it’s wrinkled or discolored, the pepper is likely past its prime. Second, give the pepper a sniff. If it smells sour or off, it’s probably bad. Finally, cut open the jalapeno and take a look at the flesh. If it’s brown or mushy, it’s time to toss the pepper.
4 Steps to Tell If A Jalapeno Is Bad
If a jalapeno is bad, it will have a sour smell and its color will be faded. The pepper will be soft to the touch and may have brown spots.
If you don’t know how to tell if a jalapeno is bad, you could end up with a mouth full of capsaicin, the compound that gives peppers their heat. That’s not a pleasant experience. Learning how to tell if a jalapeno is bad can save you from that pain, and it’s not difficult. Just check for these three things: mold, discoloration, and softness.
Step 1: The Jalapeno Should Be Firm To The Touch
A bad jalapeno will be soft to the touch and will have brown or black spots on the skin. The flesh of the jalapeno will also be discolored and may have a sour smell.
Step 2: The Jalapeno Should Be Bright Green In Color
If the jalapeno is anything but bright green, it is bad and should not be eaten. If the jalapeno is dull in color, it means that it is old and will not taste as good. If the jalapeno is brown or black, it means that it has gone bad and is not edible.
Step 3: There Should Be No Mold On The Jalapeno
If there is mold on a jalapeno, it is bad and should not be eaten. Mold can cause illness, so it is best to err on the side of caution and throw moldy jalapenos away. To avoid moldy jalapenos, inspect them before purchasing and only purchase jalapenos that are free of mold.
Step 4: The Jalapeno Should Not Be Mushy
To tell if a jalapeno is bad, look for mushiness. If the jalapeno is soft or has any give to it when squeezed, it’s probably bad. Another sign that a jalapeno is bad is mold. If you see any mold on the pepper, throw it away. Finally, trust your nose. If a jalapeno smells sour or off, it’s probably not good to eat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can A Bad Jalapeno Make You Sick?
Yes, a bad jalapeno can make you sick. If a jalapeno is bad, it will have an off odor and may be discolored. If you eat a bad jalapeno, you may experience nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.
What Does An Expired Jalapeno Look Like?
If a jalapeno is expired, it will be wrinkled and have a dull color. The flesh will be soft to the touch.
Summing-Up
The best way to tell if a jalapeno is bad is to look at its color. If it is dark green or black, it is likely bad. If it is light green or yellow, it is likely good.
