Chipotle peppers are indigenous to Mexico and they have become almost synonymous in this country with our fairly recent infatuation with “chiles”. Chili peppers are most often recognized for their spicy hotness, but when used in correct amounts, they can also be a bit mild while adding a subtle flavor to dishes.
Chipotle chiles are actually completely ripened jalapenos that are then smoke dried. For each pound of dried Chipotles it started out as 10 pounds of fresh jalapeno peppers. The end result is a dark brown to black colored, wrinkled pepper that has a smoky, somewhat sweet chocolaty aroma and flavor. And these whole Chipotle chili peppers do pack a bit of a punch as they register a 6-7 on the 1-10 heat scale. For a more subtle heat you can remove the seeds and stems prior to using.
Originally Chipotle chiles were most commonly used to flavor salsas, stews and soups but now this popular flavor has found its way into everything from fried chicken to chips. Your recipe may call for the chipotle chiles to be lightly toasted (or roasted) and this really brings out the flavor in them. We have also had some recipes calling for them to be lightly fried in oil or even burnt black. You can rehydrate them by soaking in hot water for about 20 minutes. Use them to spice up Homemade Chipotle Salsa, Chipotle Wings Sauce or Chipotle Barbeque Sauce and they are excellent with chicken, pork chops and beef.
There are approximately 9 chiles per ounce.
This particular Chipotle is considered a Chipotle "Morita" Chile. We also carry a Chipotle "Meco" Chile which is smoked for a longer time the "Morita" and is general considered to be of a slightly higher quality chile.
We also carry a variety of other dried peppers – Habanero Chiles, Ancho Chiles, Pasilla Chiles, Birdseye Chiles, Guajillo Chiles, Aji Amarillo Chiles, Cascabel Chiles, California Chiles, New Mexico Chiles and the world's hottest pepper the Ghost Chile.
We also offer Chipotle Powder and Chipotle Flakes. And if you are partial to dry rubs for the grill then be sure to check out our top selling Chipotle Rub.
|