The Jalapeño Pepper Plant Is Not Being Deported
A spicy immigrant that took root in U.S. kitchens, gardens, and hearts.

Robert Brennan
Jan 10, 2026
If you love to sprinkle Parmesan, load up with onions, or add a kick of jalapeños to your pizza, you’re in good company.
For many, jalapeños don’t just bring the burn—they deliver a vivid, green flavor that lingers and elevates every bite, even during a midweek meal.
The tradition of adding jalapeños to various dishes has deep roots, with these peppers often served roasted, sautéed, or pickled alongside rice, beans, or grilled meats in Mexican cuisine.
Jalapeños aren't just about heat. Their earthy taste slices through hearty foods without overpowering them, making each preparation—fresh, roasted, or pickled—a flavor centerpiece, not just a topping.
Now a staple across the U.S., jalapeños are celebrated in kitchens citywide, including at Long Beach Pizza Co., where bold, local flavors thrive on every plate.
These spicy classics continue to shape the vibrant Long Beach food scene.