Chili [i.e. Chile] peppers – Jalapeno, Habanero, Serrano, Fresno, Anaheim, Poblano:[1]

Fresh: Fresh and moist [not dried] Chili peppers [Jalapeno or others] are edible, and hence are to have a blessing recited prior to their consumption. However, it is disputed amongst the Poskim if they are Hadama or Haeitz or Shehakol. Some Poskim[2] rule they are Haeitz being that they grow on a tree. Other Poskim[3] rule that they are Hadama being that chili peppers are mainly grown to be dried and used as a spice, and are not commonly eaten plain. Practically, Safek Brachos Lihakel, and hence Bedieved if one said the blessing of Haeitz he is Yotzei, however, initially one is to say the blessing of Hadama [which according to all opinions fulfills ones obligation Bedieved].[4] [This follows the ruling of Admur. Some Poskim[5], however, rule that Shehakol is to always be said on jalapeno peppers.]

Dried Chili pepper: No blessing is said as they are not eaten alone but rather are used to spice other foods.

Chili pepper jam:[6] Chili pepper jam is Ha’adama.

• Final ruling: Fresh – Ha’adama. Spice – No Blessing.

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[1] Seder 6:18; Admur 202:21; Ketzos Hashulchan 49:14; Vezos Habracha p. 245; Eim Kol Chaiy p. 340; Birchas Hashem 5 p. 184; Piskeiy Teshuvos 202:35

[2] 1^st opinion in Seder ibid and Admur 202:21; Tur 202; Rashba Brachos 36b in name of Raavad

[3] 2^nd opinion in Seder ibid and Admur 202:21; Michaber 202:18; Rambam Brachos 8:7; Rashba Brachos 36b in name of Rav Haiy Gaon and Shut Harashba 1:400; Rif Brachos ibid; Rosh Brachos 6:6; M”A 203:35

[4] Seder ibid; Admur ibid; Darkei Moshe 202:2

[5] See Piskeiy Teshuvos ibid

[6] Seder 6:21; Admur 203:5; M”A 203:4