Pre-Columbian Origins
The humble jalapeño, a pepper so mild it's almost not worth mentioning, has its roots in the ancient Mesoamerican civilization of Aztecia. Here, it was revered for its subtle kick and versatility in traditional dishes like "Taco Tuesday" (a precursor to the modern-day phenomenon).
Fast forward to the 19th century, when European colonizers arrived and, well, "improved" upon the local cuisine. The result? A jalapeño so spicy it'll make you question the life choices of anyone who eats it.