Chipotle Chile

Chipotle are simply smoked jalapeños, but you will find nothing simple about their flavor. With a winning combination of moderate heat and smoky flavor, it is easy to see why Chipotle Chile have become such a widely‐used ingredient in contemporary cuisine.

Chipotle Chile, a staple in Mexican cuisine, boasts a rich history and distinct smoky flavor that sets it apart from other chiles. Its origin traces back to the Aztecs, who were among the first to cultivate and smoke-dry jalapeño peppers, creating the chipotle. The word “chipotle” itself comes from the Nahuatl word chīlpōctli, meaning “smoked chile.” Jalapeños were a prime candidate for smoking because their thick flesh made them difficult to dry through traditional methods. Today, this spice continues to be a beloved ingredient in Mexico and worldwide for its deep, smoky flavor and versatility in the kitchen.

Flavor

Chipotle Chile is known for its unique flavor combination—smoky, earthy, and slightly sweet with a moderate heat level. It’s made by smoking ripened red jalapeños, giving it an unmistakable depth and complexity. The smokiness is the star, often paired with a hint of sweetness and tang. While not overwhelmingly spicy, Chipotle adds just the right amount of heat to a dish, typically ranging between 2,500 and 8,000 Scoville Heat Units (SHU), the same range as Jalapeños. When added to soups and chili, they impart a belly‐warming heat and will stand up to beef, chicken or pork.

How to Use Chipotle Chile

Chipotle Chile can be used in various forms, including powder, flakes, or whole dried chiles, making it easy to incorporate into your cooking. Sprinkle the powdered form over grilled vegetables or meats to add a smoky kick, or use the flakes as a topping for soups and stews for an extra layer of flavor. The whole dried chiles can be rehydrated in warm water and blended into sauces, marinades, or even salsa. This spice works especially well in slow-cooked recipes, where its smoky depth can truly develop over time.

Popular Recipes Featuring Chipotle Chile

• Chipotle Salsa: Blend rehydrated chipotle with tomatoes, garlic, onion, and cilantro for a smoky salsa with a hint of heat.
• Chicken Tacos: Marinate chicken in a mixture of chipotle chile powder, lime juice, garlic, and olive oil before grilling for a flavorful taco filling.
• Smoky Chili: Add Chipotle powder or whole chiles to your favorite chili recipe to bring out a rich, smoky flavor.
• Honey Glazed Ribs: Combine Chipotle powder with honey, vinegar, and spices to create a sweet and smoky glaze for slow-cooked ribs.

Explore Spice Station’s Collection of Chiles

Get the best quality Chipotle Chile at Spice Station! Our chile is perfect for spicing up your favorite recipes. We offer both whole and ground. We also carry a wide variety of other chiles, such as Ancho chile, Guajillo chile, and Pasilla chile, each with its own unique flavor profile. Explore our selection today and bring the bold flavors of authentic chiles to your cooking.