Types of Chili Peppers

Chili Peppers Size Spiciness
Chili peppers vary in size and spiciness. See more pictures of vegetables.
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Q. How many different types of chili pepper are out there and how can I tell which one are hot and which are mild?

A. There are over 100 varieties of chili peppers in Mexico alone, each with its own distinct flavor. In general, the smaller the chili, the hotter the taste -- although this is not a guarantee.

Here are a few of the most common types of chili peppers:­

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  • ­Anah­eim pe­ppers: light green, 4 to 6 in. long and 11/2 in. wide, mild with a slight bite
  • Jalapeño peppers: small and dark green, 2 to 3 in. long and 3/4 in. wide, hot to very hot
  • Poblano peppers: very dark green, large and triangular-shaped, 31/2 to 5 in. long, mild to quite hot
  • Serrano peppers: very small, medium-green or red, very hot

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Related HowStuffWorks Articles

  • How to Cook Chili Peppers
  • Mexican Shrimp with Hot Chili Pepper Butter
  • Chili-Stuffed Poblano Peppers
  • White Bean and Green Chili Pepper Soup

 

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