Green Chili Seed Types

Many green chilies turn red when they mature, but they can be eaten green

Green chili peppers can make a great addition to any garden, and the seeds can be purchased from any reputable garden center. Most chilies are very hot and their oils and seeds can burn your skin, so wear gloves when handling them. If you don't have any handy, make sure you don't touch your eyes before washing your hands after you've handled the peppers..

Anaheim Chili Peppers

These chilies can be consumed when they are still green but turn red when they mature. They are related to the New Mexico chili and were brought to California for cultivation, hence the name. Today they are the most frequently consumed chili in the U.S. They are mild and slightly bittersweet when green and can be roasted or steamed. They are a popular ingredient in tacos, casseroles and soups, particularly when paired with meat.

Habanero Chili Peppers

These are very similar to Scotch Bonnet peppers and are named after the Cuban capital, La Havana. They are the hottest chili peppers known to man--so hot you'll feel the heat in your nose--and are an important component of Caribbean dishes such as jerk chicken. These peppers are green but can turn red after they mature. They can be purchased fresh or dried and used to make salsas, soups and stews.

Jalapeno Chili Peppers

Originating in South America, jalapenos are sold fresh, pickled or dried; in the latter case, they have often been smoked and are known as chipotle. With a medium to strong heat, they are used in many dishes, from kebabs to fajitas to sauces.

Jimmy Nardello Chili Pepper

Contrary to other types of green chili peppers, the Jimmy Nardello variety is sweet rather than hot and can be eaten raw. It originates in Italy and is great for frying or roasting before adding to chicken or pork as well as being a good ingredient in sauces, including the famous Italian Marinara sauce. As with many other chilies, they begin life green and turn red when very mature.

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