Chipotle Chile Powder

Smoked Dried Jalepeno

Let’s bring the heat! The word Chipotle comes from the Nahuatl word “chilpoctli” meaning “smoked chile.” It is essentially a smoke-dried jalapeño that is primarily used in Mexican cuisine. These spicy peppers bring the heat but don’t be scared, as they generally have about the same heat as an Espelette pepper, jalapeño, or Tabasco sauce.

About Chipotle Chile Powder

Chipotle Chile Peppers are simply green jalapeños that have been left to ripen longer until they have a deep red color and have lost much of their moisture. They are then picked and are ready to be made into what we know as Chipotles. The red jalapeños are moved to a smoking chamber and are smoked for several days, until almost all of the moisture is gone and the Chipotles have dried to where they resemble prunes or raisins. This combination of natural heat and smoky taste are what give Chipotle Chiles their distinct flavor and taste! 

The best Chipotle Chiles are produced in northern Mexico. This variety is known as a “morita,” which is Spanish for small mulberry. Chipotles Chiles can be purchased in several forms, including ground chipotle powder, chipotle pods, chipotle adobo in a can, concentrated chipotle base and even as a wet chipotle meat marinade.

The ground version of the chile can be used in various salsas, combined with other spices to make the well known meat marinade, adobo, and also added to barbeque sauces, hot sauces, chili and stews. It is a great addition to soups, stews or even to the liquid when braising meats. 

Remember, Chipotle Chile Powder will bring heat and a distinctive smoky flavor to your dishes. Use it sparingly or in abundance to your liking. 

Heat Level: 2/5

Ingredients

Chipotle Chile Powder

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