If you ever need a kick to your meal, jalapeños are exactly what you need. The spiciness is potent enough to satisfy yet mild enough to enjoy.
Maybe you’ve kept your jalapeños longer than intended, and now you’re concerned they might be spoiled.
You’re probably asking yourself: Have my jalapeños gone bad? How long do they last?
Here are the answers to your burning questions. Jalapeños stay fresh and at their best quality for 3-5 days in the pantry but 1-2 weeks in the fridge.
How To Tell Jalapeños Have Gone Bad
Jalapeños don’t spoil easily.
However, they tend to lose quality as time passes. They may still be okay to consume, but the spiciness and freshness will deteriorate after a while.
If your jalapeños start to wrinkle and lose their flavor, they can still be used, especially in cooked dishes.
But if your jalapeños start to change color or smell, it’s best to toss them out. You may find brown spots or grey specks on spoiled jalapeños. If that’s the case, discard them.
When looking at canned jalapeños, inspect the can for any dents, rust, or leaks. If you find any, make sure to throw out the whole can, even if it seems okay.
Storing Jalapeños
Fresh jalapeños should be stored in the fridge if you want to keep them for longer. The vegetable drawer is just the right spot. Place your jalapeños in a brown or plastic bag but make sure there is enough airflow in the bags.
If you have cut or sliced your jalapeños, place them in an airtight container or freezer bag, so they don’t dry out. You can also use foil or plastic wrap to do the job. Just make sure that all the air is squeezed out.
Maybe you’ve bought bottled or canned jalapeños. If so, store the unopened can in a dark, cool area away from heat. Once you open the can or jar, store the rest in the fridge under a tight seal. Remember: always keep them in the brine otherwise, they will go dry or grow mold.
How Long Do Jalapeños Last?
Fresh jalapeños will last 3-5 days at room temperature. But if you want to keep them fresher for longer, pop them in the fridge. They will last 1-2 weeks when refrigerated. Once sliced open, jalapeños will keep in the fridge for 3-4 days.
Canned jalapeños can last 3-6 months after the best-by date on the label. Once opened, canned jalapeños can be stored in the fridge for 1-2 months.
These dates are simply estimates based on the best quality of your jalapeños. You may still eat them past these dates if they show no signs of spoilage. However, use your discretion. If you’re holding onto your jalapeños for over three months, especially if they’re opened cans or fresh, it’s time to let go.
In Summary
Jalapeños are not only a popular chili pepper, but they also happen to be the first peppers to travel to space on a NASA shuttle. Even astronauts need the spice of this pepper during their commute.
Jalapeños may not spoil easily, but after a few weeks, they will start to deteriorate in quality and flavor. Always keep a lookout for signs of spoilage, such as a change in color or smell.
