Ancho Chili Powder

Capsicum annuum Spice

Ancho Chili Powder Spice

At a Glance

  • Category Spice

The Forktionary Angle

"The Gentle Giant: Exploring the Deep, Complex Flavors of Ancho Chili Powder"

Definition

A mild, fruity, and earthy chili powder made from dried poblano peppers, essential in authentic Mexican cuisine for its deep, rich flavor.

Culinary Use A foundational ingredient in moles, chili, and authentic Mexican sauces.
Origin Ground from dried poblano peppers. "Ancho" means "wide" in Spanish.
Scoville Heat Units 1,000-1,500 SHU (very mild).

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Ancho Chili Powder are:

Mild fruity earthy sweet notes of raisin/prune

Chef’s Secret

Toast ancho chili powder lightly in a dry pan for 30 seconds before using to intensify its complex, fruity notes.

Best Substitutes

Guajillo Chili Powder

Ratio 1:1

California Chili Powder

Ratio 1:1

Mild Paprika

less complex
Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

Look for a deep reddish-brown color and a subtle aroma. Store away from light and heat.

Recipes Using Ancho Chili Powder

Preparation Low Sodium Main Ingredient English

Anglo Tex Mex Tamarind And Treacle Barbecue Sauce

Unleash your inner grill master with this vibrant Anglo-Tex-Mex Tamarind & Treacle BBQ Sauce! A fusion of sweet, smoky, and tangy flavors, this double-duty sauce is perfect for slathering on ribs, chicken, or anything that needs a flavor explosion. It's also amazing as a basting sauce for a juicy, roasted whole bird! Prepare to be amazed by the depth of flavor in this truly unique BBQ creation.

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Healthy 2 American Course Preparation

Ancho Chile Fries

Crispy, spicy ancho chile fries that are ridiculously easy to make! These oven-baked fries are coated in a flavorful blend of ancho chile powder, garlic, and a touch of sweetness, delivering a perfect kick with every bite. Get ready for the ultimate game-day snack or side dish!

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4 Hours Or Less Easy Very Low Carbs Equipment

Ancho Braised Pork

Fall in love with this incredibly flavorful Ancho Braised Pork recipe! Tender, slow-cooked pork is infused with the rich, smoky depth of pure ancho chile powder. Surprisingly easy to make, this warming dish fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma while it simmers. Serve over fluffy rice and garnish with fresh cilantro for a truly unforgettable meal. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion!

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Meat Pork Pork Ribs Holiday Event

Apple Bacon Barbecued Ribs

Elevate your barbecue game with these fall-off-the-bone Apple Bacon Barbecued Ribs! Inspired by a Fine Cooking newsletter recipe, this improved version boasts a smoky, sweet, and savory flavor profile that will leave you craving more. The perfect balance of smoky bacon, tangy apple cider vinegar, and rich barbecue sauce creates an unforgettable rib experience.

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Course Main Ingredient Course Main Dish

Barbecue Chicken And Grape Salad

This light and zesty Barbecue Chicken and Grape Salad is the perfect summer meal! Juicy, grilled chicken is tossed with sweet green grapes, crunchy walnuts, and a tangy barbecue dressing. Ready in under an hour, this recipe is surprisingly easy and bursting with flavor. Perfect for a BBQ, potluck, or a light weeknight dinner.

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American 30 Minutes Or Less Meat Chicken Breasts

Ancho Chicken Tacos With Cilantro Slaw And Avocado Cream

Indulge in these flavorful Ancho Chicken Tacos! A twist on a classic, this recipe features tender chicken marinated in smoky ancho chile powder, topped with a vibrant cilantro slaw, and a creamy avocado sauce. While inspired by a lighter recipe, we've amped up the flavor – but you can easily lighten it up by using flour tortillas instead of corn. Get ready for a taste explosion!

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Beef Time To Make Main Dish Preparation

Baked Chili Mac

Craving a comforting and flavorful dinner? This Baked Buffalo Chili Mac recipe is a game-changer! Inspired by a childhood cafeteria favorite, this recipe elevates classic chili mac with a spicy buffalo twist. We're using ground buffalo meat for a unique flavor profile, combined with hearty elbow macaroni, vibrant chili spices, and a gooey cheddar cheese topping. Perfect for a weeknight meal or a casual get-together, this adaptable recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Get ready for a cheesy, spicy, and satisfying culinary adventure!

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Cuisine 60 Minutes Or Less Main Ingredient Taste Mood

Beef And Black Bean Chili With Toasted Cumin Crema Bobby Flay

Spice up your life with this award-winning Beef and Black Bean Chili recipe, inspired by Bobby Flay! This hearty and flavorful chili features tender beef (or try a delicious buffalo and beef blend!), smoky chili powders, and a vibrant toasted cumin crema for an unforgettable culinary experience. Perfect for a chilly evening or a game-day feast, this recipe is easily customizable to your spice preference. Elevate your chili game today!

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Cookies And Brownies North American Cuisine 60 Minutes Or Less

Ancho Chili Brownies

Indulge in these decadent Ancho Chili Brownies! A rich, fudgy brownie base gets a surprising and delicious upgrade with the smoky warmth of ancho chili powder. This recipe delivers the perfect balance of sweet and spicy, creating an unforgettable treat for chocolate lovers with a taste for adventure. Note: Use only ancho chili powder for its unique smoky, slightly spicy flavor.

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Occasion Occasion Taste Mood Marinades And Rubs

Ancho Chile Rub

Ignite your taste buds with this smoky, savory Ancho Chile Rub! Perfect for elevating steaks and roasts to unforgettable flavor. This easy-to-make rub creates a delicious crust with a deep, rich chile flavor. For those who like a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick! Enough for 3-5 pounds of meat.

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North American Free Of Something Southwestern United States Easy

Atlanta Falcons Chili Powder Mix

Ignite your taste buds with this explosive Atlanta Falcons Chili Powder Mix! Packed with bold flavor in a convenient blend, it's perfect for adding a fiery kick to your favorite chili, tacos, or anything that needs a Southwestern boost. Get ready for game day with this easy-to-make, incredibly flavorful spice mix – your taste buds will thank you!

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Taste Mood Tex Mex Easy Occasion

Aye Mami Chicken Tortilla Soup

A vibrant and flavorful Chicken Tortilla Soup recipe, inspired by McCormick spices! This easy-to-make soup is bursting with authentic Mexican flavors. Perfect for a weeknight meal or a cozy weekend gathering, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Get ready to savor the delicious combination of tender chicken, zesty tomatoes, and crispy tortilla strips!

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Dietary Breakfast Main Dish Brunch

Basquet Of Eggs Baked Omelet

Transport your taste buds to the sunny Basque Country with this stunning baked omelet! Inspired by the vibrant piperade of France and Spain, this easy oven-baked recipe creates a delicious main course perfect for any meal. Enjoy it hot, cold, or at room temperature as a delightful tapas snack. This special edition recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser – simple to make, yet bursting with flavor!

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Main Ingredient Healthy 2 3 Steps Or Less 60 Minutes Or Less

Arroz Mexicana Mexican Rice

Craveable Arroz Mexicana! This vibrant Mexican rice recipe is a family favorite, transforming picky eaters into rice lovers. Made with fresh corn and peas (when in season!), it's bursting with flavor and far surpasses any boxed version. This recipe features a perfectly balanced blend of spices and tender rice. Get ready for a taste of authentic Mexican cuisine that's quick, easy, and incredibly delicious!

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Poultry Mexican 30 Minutes Or Less Low In Something

Ancho Cumin Chicken Taco Filling

Fire up your taste buds with this vibrant Ancho Cumin Chicken Taco Filling recipe! Inspired by a local favorite, this recipe uses tender chicken thighs infused with smoky ancho chili and warm cumin. Homemade ancho chili powder adds a depth of flavor you won't find anywhere else. Perfect for tacos, tostadas, or any Mexican-inspired dish. Get ready for a flavor explosion!

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Independence Day Course Pork Time To Make

Adobe Grilled Pork Chops

Savor the explosion of Southwestern flavors with these Adobe Grilled Pork Chops! This recipe lets you control the heat – from mild to fiery – using your favorite amount of cayenne pepper. Tender, juicy pork chops are marinated in a vibrant adobe paste, then grilled to perfection and basted for irresistible flavor. A quick and easy weeknight meal that's guaranteed to impress!

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Preparation Preparation 3 Steps Or Less 15 Minutes Or Less

Ancho Chili And Lime Marinade

Ignite your taste buds with this vibrant Ancho Chili & Lime Marinade! Perfect for fajitas, this marinade delivers incredible flavor in under an hour. The mild ancho chili powder adds a smoky depth without the heat, making it a crowd-pleaser. Don't forget to season your meat with salt before marinating for extra juicy results! This recipe is quick, easy, and guarantees restaurant-quality fajitas.

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