Named after the California city where it was first grown, the Anaheim pepper is a versatile and mildly spicy chili pepper that’s prized for its rich flavor.  It is a cultivar of the species Capsicum annuum and typically green when harvested but can ripen to a vibrant red color if left on the plant.

Anaheim peppers, while milder compared to some other chili varieties, still contain capsaicin, a compound known for potential health benefits, including pain relief and metabolism boost.  These peppers are a good source of essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin A, potassium, and folate. They also contain dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps you feel full.  Anaheim peppers are low in calories, making them a great addition to a calorie-conscious diet.

To prolong the freshness and flavor of your Anaheim peppers, store unwashed in a perforated plastic bag in the vegetable crisper drawer of your refrigerator. The cool, humid environment should help keep them fresh for up to two weeks.

Anaheim peppers are incredibly versatile and can be used in various dishes to add flavor and a mild heat. Dice Anaheim peppers and combine them with tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice to create a delicious salsa. You can also blend them with yogurt or sour cream for a creamy and mildly spicy dip.  Hollow out Anaheim peppers, stuff them with a mixture of meat, rice, vegetables, and spices, and bake them for a hearty and flavorful dish.  Use thinly sliced Anaheim peppers as toppings for pizzas, sandwiches, or tacos or add raw chopped peppers to soups and stews for a subtle heat and a burst of flavor.  Roasting Anaheim peppers intensifies their flavor and imparts a smoky depth. Place them under a broiler or directly on a gas flame until the skin chars, then peel, seed, and use them in salsas, soups, or stuffed pepper recipes.