Spice, Chili Pepper | Vegan Vegetarian Gluten Free Low Sodium

Ancho Chilis

Capsicum annuum (dried poblano) Allergen-Free
ancho chilis

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Solanaceae
  • Primary Cuisine Mexican
  • Seasonality Year-Round (dried)
  • Source Capsicum annuum (poblano 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, ripened poblano peppers, known for their mild heat, fruity, and slightly smoky, raisin-like flavor profile in Mexican cuisine.

Sensory Profile

TasteSweet, Fruity (raisin/prune), Earthy, Mildly Pungent, Smoky
TextureLeathery (dried), Soft/Fleshy (rehydrated)
AromaDried fruit, Earthy, Mildly Spicy, Tobacco
AcidityLow

Technical Metrics

Origin

Mexico (Puebla state)

Scoville Heat Units (SHU)

1,000 - 3,000 SHU

Traditional Culinary Role

Essential in mole sauces

Nutrition Facts

Per 1 chili (approx 10-15g)
Calories314 kcal
Total Fat7.7g
Saturated Fat1.2g
Trans Fat0g
Cholesterol0mg
Protein12.3g
Total Carbohydrate56.6g
Dietary Fiber34g
Total Sugars38g
Calcium140mg
Iron8.7mg
Potassium2300mg

Chef’s Secret

Toast anchos lightly in a dry pan before rehydrating to deepen their smoky, fruity flavor and aroma.

Substitutions

Best Match

Mulato Chilis

1:1

Similar flavor profile (smoky, chocolatey), slightly darker and richer.

Pasilla Chilis

1:1

Also dark and fruity, but slightly spicier and less sweet than ancho.

Chipotle Peppers (in adobo, rinsed)

1:2

Adds smoky flavor, but significantly spicier and canned. Rinse to reduce salt.

Smoked Paprika + Bell Pepper

1 tbsp smoked paprika + 1/2 roasted red bell pepper for 2 anchos

For color, mild sweetness, and smoky notes without heat.

Buying Guide

Look for pliable, unbroken chilis with a rich color and fruity aroma. Store in an airtight container.

Flavor Pairings

Pork Beef Chocolate Tomatoes Onions Garlic Cumin Coriander.

Recipes Using Ancho Chilis

Ancho Chile Marinade For Meat Ala Chipotle image 115
High Protein Course Preparation 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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Authentic Mexican Tamale Pie image 154
North American Mexican Main Dish Course

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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