Serrano peppers

Serrano peppers are a type of fresh chili very popular in Mexican and Latin American cuisine. They are small in size, generally between 2 and 5 cm in length, and have an elongated and cylindrical shape. The most common color is bright green, although they can also ripen to an intense red.

Native to the mountainous regions of Mexico, especially the states of Puebla and Hidalgo, serrano peppers are widely cultivated in Latin America due to their spicy flavor and versatility in the kitchen.

These peppers are known for their medium-high level of spiciness, which ranges between 10,000 and 25,000 units on the Scoville scale. Their flavor is fresh, slightly fruity, and with a herbaceous touch, making them ideal for salsas, guacamole, marinades, and traditional dishes like pico de gallo.

Regarding their properties, serrano peppers are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, in addition to containing capsaicin, a compound that contributes to the sensation of heat and is associated with anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits.

In different Spanish-speaking countries, serrano peppers may go by other names such as green jalapeño pepper (although this is a distinct type, they are sometimes confused), serrano chili, or simply green chili. However, in most Latin American countries they are commonly known as serrano peppers.