Seasons/Availability
Green Serrano chile peppers are available year-round with a peak season in the summer through fall.
Selection/Storage
Green Serrano chile peppers should be firm, brightly colored, and free from bruises, wrinkles, or blemishes. To store the fresh peppers in a cool and dry place with good air circulation for up to 1 week. For longer storage, wrap the unwashed chiles in paper towels before placing them in a plastic bag and storing them in the refrigerator crisper drawer for 3-4 weeks. Dried Serrano chiles can be stored at room temperature for up to 6 months when placed inside an airtight container away from direct light and heat.
Preparation/Uses
Green Serrano chile peppers can be used raw or cooked in both savory dishes and sweet applications. Before using, the membranes and seeds should be removed to reduce heat and create a more balanced flavor. For an extra kick of spice, the chili may be left whole or sliced into thin coins and added raw to salads, salsa, pastas, sandwiches, tacos, pizzas, soups, stews, casseroles, salsas, dips and marinades. Green Serrano chile peppers can also be sautéed with other vegetables or used as a topping for nachos. They can be fried until crispy and used as a garnish or blended into hot sauces for an added spicy element. For sweet applications such as jams or chutneys, the peppers should be cooked until softened before adding in sugar. The dried peppers can be soaked in hot water and ground into a paste or powder to add warm flavors to dishes.
Nutrition/Benefits
Green Serrano chile peppers are an excellent source of vitamins A, C and K as well as dietary fiber, calcium, iron, phosphorus and potassium. They also contain capsaicin which is known for its metabolism-boosting properties and can help reduce inflammation. Eating this spicy pepper may also aid in controlling blood sugar levels thanks to its low glycemic index rating.
Safety/Warning
Because of their high heat level, it’s important to wear gloves when handling green Serrano chiles to avoid skin irritation or burning sensations. If you experience any burning sensation, immediately rinse the affected area with cold water. It is also important to remember that eating too much of this chili pepper can cause stomach irritation and other digestive issues.
Storage
Green Serrano chile peppers should always be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and should be used within one week for optimum freshness. To extend their shelf life, they can be frozen whole or sliced and thawed as needed or dried and ground into a powder. When storing dried chiles, it’s important to keep them in an airtight container away from heat and moisture. They will last up to 6 months if stored correctly.
