Fresno Pepper vs. Jalapeño

Jalapeño peppers are one of the most common culinary ingredients for adding spice to a dish. However, the lesser-known Fresno pepper is quickly gaining in popularity as well!

While these two peppers are nearly identical, there are several subtle differences that set them apart. Let’s explore the similarities and differences between these two spicy delights to determine which is better for your kitchen and garden.

Fresno Pepper vs. Jalapeño: Key Differences

Fresno peppers and jalapeño peppers can often confused with one another. While these plants look and feel similar, there are a few key differences.

Fresno peppers have a much different taste than jalapeño peppers. The Fresno tends to be sweeter and more versatile than the jalapeño, making it a common substitution in recipes. 

The walls of the Fresno pepper are also slightly thinner, which contributes to the milder, sweeter taste. Jalapeño peppers are thicker and textured.

Fresno peppers are considered perfectly ripe when they’re red on the vine. Jalapeño peppers are fully ripe when they’re green — though they’ll turn red if you leave them for too long!

Fresno Pepper vs. Jalapeño: Classification

The Fresno pepper and jalapeño are both cultivars of the species Capsicum annuum. However, the Fresno pepper has been created through selective breeding whereas the jalapeño is naturally-occurring.

Both the Fresno pepper and jalapeño share the Capsicum annuum classification with other members of the nightshade family, including bell peppers, cayenne peppers, and ornamental peppers.

Fresno Pepper vs. Jalapeño: Origin

The Fresno pepper was created in 1952 by Clarence Brown Hamlin, in Clovis, California. This small city in Fresno county was where Clarence (known by his friends as “Brownie”) operated Clarence Brown Seed Co. According to his nephew, Casey Hamlin, Brownie loved experimenting with plant varieties. He was looking for a “different flavor” when he accidentally created the Fresno pepper, and felt compelled to share it with the world.

The jalapeño originates in Veracruz — a state in Mexico. The Spanish word jalapeño translates to of Jalapa. This translation refers to Xalapa-Enríquez, the capital city of Veracruz. The jalapeño can also be found in the Southern States, and has earned the title of the official “State Pepper of Texas.” 

Fresno Pepper vs. Jalapeño: Description

Fresno peppers and jalapeño peppers are nearly identical. While the size and shape are similar, the most notable difference is the color. Fresno’s are considered perfectly ripe when they turn from green to red. The jalapeño is meant to be harvested when it’s green.

There are subtle differences in appearance between the two peppers as well. The Fresno pepper is often more tapered than the jalapeño, coming to a sharper point at the end. The leaves of the Fresno pepper plant also tend to be a slightly lighter shade of green than the jalapeño’s.

Fresno Pepper vs. Jalapeño: Uses

Both the Fresno pepper and jalapeño have a wide variety of culinary uses. While Fresno peppers have a higher rating on the Scoville scale, many heat lovers find them more accessible. The sweetness of the Fresno adds a balance to the heat, making it more palatable. Hot sauce connoisseurs sometimes call the Fresno a gateway pepper.

The smokiness of the Fresno is perfect as a topping or pop of flavor in dishes like ceviche, soups, and stews. The immature peppers are used in condiments like relish and salsa to sprinkle on hot dogs, tacos, and other Tex-Mex cuisines.

The jalapeño is more vegetal and has a harsher flavor profile. They’re often used in moles, salsas, and hot sauces. They’re also featured in Tex-Mex-inspired dishes like nachos and jalapeño poppers. Like Fresno peppers, jalapeños can be pickled and used as a topping on tacos and hotdogs.

Fresno Pepper vs. Jalapeño: Growth Tips

The Fresno pepper and jalapeño pepper have similar growth requirements, though jalapeños are a bit less demanding.

Start Fresno pepper seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before the last frost. These peppers prefer warmer temperatures around 85° F. Consider adding a heat mat for bottom warmth while germinating and growing in the early season. 

Transplant the Fresno sprouts into loamy soil in a terra cotta pot or garden. These Californian peppers require full sun, frequent watering, and adequate drainage to prevent root rot. Prune the first leaves to prevent legginess and promote a better yield.

Start jalapeño seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost. Jalapeño plants are hardier than Fresno peppers and can germinate at temperatures between 65° and 80° F in about three weeks. Transfer jalapeño sprouts to the garden or a terra cotta patio pot. Jalapeño plants require full sun, frequent watering, and adequate drainage to prevent root rot.

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