Ancho Chilis

Capsicum annuum (dried Poblano) Spice, Chili Pepper

Ancho Chilis Spice, Chili Pepper

At a Glance

  • Category Spice, Chili Pepper

The Forktionary Angle

"The backbone of mole: Ancho chilis provide foundational depth, sweetness, and a gentle heat, making them indispensable in complex Mexican sauces."

Definition

Dried poblano peppers, dark reddish-brown, wrinkled, and mild to moderately spicy with a fruity, smoky, and slightly sweet flavor profile.

Origin Mexico (Puebla state)
Scoville Heat Units (SHU) 1,000 - 3,000 SHU
Traditional Culinary Role Essential in mole sauces

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Ancho Chilis are:

Smoky fruity (prune/raisin) sweet earthy mild to medium heat

Chef’s Secret

Toast ancho chilis lightly in a dry pan before rehydrating them; this intensifies their smoky, fruity notes, bringing out deeper flavors for your sauces.

Best Substitutes

Pasilla Chili

similar fruitiness, darker flavor
Ratio 1:1

Guajillo Chili

brighter fruitiness, less smoky
Ratio 1:1

Chipotle Powder

1 tsp powder for 1 rehydrated chili, smoky, spicier

Buying Guide

Look for pliable, unbroken chilis. Avoid brittle or dusty ones. Store in a cool, dark, airtight place.

Recipes Using Ancho Chilis

Meat Chicken High Protein Course

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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Main Dish Main Ingredient Wild Game North American

Austin's Chili

This award-winning chili recipe is the culmination of years of experimentation! I couldn't find a chili I truly loved, so I created my own. It's worth the little extra dicing for a flavor explosion that will leave you wanting more. Get ready for a hearty, flavorful chili that's perfect for a chilly evening or a game-day feast!

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Time To Make Course Time To Make Preparation

Authentic Mexican Tamale Pie

Skip the fuss, keep the flavor! This Authentic Mexican Tamale Pie is a delicious shortcut to your favorite tamale experience. A comforting casserole combining the best of two classic recipes (inspired by #191472 and #168006), this dish features a creamy cornmeal topping and a hearty chili filling. Made with finely ground cornmeal (or masa harina!), it's topped with a vibrant cilantro cream sauce (recipe #171578) for the perfect finishing touch. Get ready for a flavor explosion that's easy to make and impossible to resist!

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Preparation Occasion From Scratch Main Dish

Beef Stew With Cactus Carne Guisada Con Nopalitos

A sizzling border-style beef stew recipe featuring tender beef and succulent cactus pads (nopalitos)! This flavorful dish, as featured in our local paper, is perfect for a comforting weeknight meal or a special occasion. Get ready to experience a unique blend of savory spices and textures.

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Time To Make Peppers Main Ingredient Puddings And Mousses

Ancho Chile Flan

Indulge in this fiery twist on a classic! This Ancho Chile Flan, inspired by Marilyn Tausand's "Cocina de la Familia" from Mexico City, boasts a rich, creamy custard infused with the smoky heat of ancho chiles. A perfect blend of sweet and spicy, it's a show-stopping dessert guaranteed to impress. Get ready for a taste of Mexico!

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Dietary Healthy Low Sodium Soups Stews

Another Great Chicken Tortilla Soup

This incredibly flavorful Chicken Tortilla Soup recipe, inspired by a magazine favorite, is well worth the effort! Sweet ancho chiles (easily found in the Mexican food aisle) form the heart of this rich and satisfying soup. Impress your family with this restaurant-quality meal, perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion. Get ready for a flavor explosion!

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Number Of Servings Main Ingredient Cuisine Number Of Servings

Award Winning Chili

This isn't just chili; it's a champion! My award-winning chili recipe, perfected over years of chili cook-off victories, delivers a depth of flavor that will leave you speechless. Get ready for tender, juicy beef infused with smoky spices and a rich, hearty tomato base. This recipe is perfect for game day, family gatherings, or simply satisfying your chili cravings. Prepare to be amazed!

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Grilling Meat Condiments Etc Main Dish

Ancho Chile Marinade For Meat Ala Chipotle

Fire up your grill and prepare for a flavor explosion! This recipe recreates the magic of Chipotle's crave-worthy carnitas, but with juicy grilled chicken. Inspired by their famous tacos, this ancho chile marinade delivers a smoky, savory depth that will leave you wanting more. Perfect for tacos, burritos, or simply enjoying on its own, this recipe is easy to follow and delivers restaurant-quality results in under an hour. Get ready for the ultimate taco night!

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Low In Something 60 Minutes Or Less Time To Make Healthy 2

Ancho Chile Sauce

Elevate your BBQ game with this intensely flavorful Ancho Chile Sauce! Perfect for brisket, chicken, ribs, and more, this recipe delivers a rich, smoky depth that will leave your taste buds singing. Easily customizable, it's a must-try for both seasoned pitmasters and kitchen novices. Get ready for the best BBQ sauce you've ever tasted!

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3 Steps Or Less Crock Pot Slow Cooker Soups Stews Black Beans

Beer Braised Pork And Black Bean Soup

Fall in love with this hearty and flavorful Beer Braised Pork and Black Bean Soup! Inspired by Real Simple, this slow cooker recipe delivers tender, melt-in-your-mouth pork in a rich, smoky broth brimming with black beans and zesty spices. Perfect for a chilly evening or a cozy weekend meal.

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Main Dish Main Dish 4 Hours Or Less Course

Beef Stew In A Pot

A mouthwatering Mexican beef stew recipe, inspired by Better Homes and Gardens! This hearty and flavorful stew simmers to perfection, creating a tender, delicious meal the whole family will crave. Perfect for a cozy night in or a festive gathering.

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