Jalapeño

High school (ages 12+)
Food & Cooking

Name:

Date:

Step 1 · Read the article

Open the article and read it at the level above. Then answer the questions below in your own words.

https://smallwhale.org/articles/jalapeo

Write what each word means, using the article.

Do not copy the article. Write two things you learned, the way you would explain them to a friend.

Answers below are taken from the article’s stored facts, so they match what the student read.

1. What is the botanical species?Capsicum annuum
2. What is the geographic origin?Mexico, specifically associated with Xalapa
3. Where does the jalapeño grow?The jalapeño grew first in Mexico, especially around the city of Xalapa. From there it spread to many parts of the world.
4. How spicy is a jalapeño?Jalapeños have a medium heat level, usually between 4,000 and 8,500 Scoville Heat Units. They’re warm enough to feel the heat but not too hot for most people.

Capsicum annuum: The most common species of chili pepper, encompassing a wide variety of forms and flavors.
Pungency: The quality of being sharply strong or spicy to the taste or smell.
Cultivar: A plant variety that has been produced in cultivation by selective breeding for desired characteristics.
Mesoamerica: A historical region and cultural area in the Americas, extending from central Mexico to northern Central America.