Forktionary

Arbol Chilis

Capsicum annuum (tree chili) Spice/Chili

Arbol Chilis Spice/Chili

At a Glance

  • Category Spice/Chili

The Forktionary Angle

"The small but mighty chili that delivers a direct, vibrant heat with a subtle complexity."

Definition

Small, slender, bright red dried chilies known for their clean, fiery heat and slightly nutty, grassy flavor, often used for intensity.

Distinctive Appearance Slender, bright red
Primary Function Adding heat to dishes
Scoville Heat Units (SHU) 15,000-30,000

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Arbol Chilis are:

Fiery Nutty Grassy Earthy Medium to Hot Heat (15 000-30 000 SHU)

Chef’s Secret

For a quick, intensely flavored chili oil, lightly toast whole arbol chilies, then steep them in hot neutral oil (like grapeseed or canola) with a few garlic cloves for several hours or overnight.

Best Substitutes

Pequin chili

similar heat, smaller
Ratio 1:1

Dried cayenne

less nuanced flavor
Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

Look for whole, unbroken chilies with a vibrant red color. Avoid faded or brittle ones.

Culinary Pairings

Salsas hot sauces stir-fries oils soups stews beans garlic lime

Recipes Using Arbol Chilis

Authentic Pad Thai image 105
Course Course For 1 Or 2 Shrimp

Authentic Pad Thai

Unlock the secrets of Thailand's most iconic street food! This Authentic Pad Thai recipe delivers the vibrant flavors and textures of Bangkok's bustling markets right to your kitchen. Learn to make perfectly stir-fried noodles with shrimp, peanuts, and a tangy tamarind sauce. Get ready for an explosion of taste!

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Alton Brown's Chili Powder image
American Time To Make Preparation North American

Alton Brown's Chili Powder

Elevate your chili and Mexican cooking with this incredible chili powder blend! Inspired by Alton Brown's genius, this recipe delivers authentic chili flavor in just 13 minutes. Easily customizable – mix and match dried chiles to your liking while maintaining the approximate ratios. Get ready to experience chili like never before!

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Beer Bacon Mac And Cheese image 137
Course 30 Minutes Or Less Time To Make Macaroni And Cheese

Beer Bacon Mac And Cheese

Indulge in this elevated Beer Bacon Mac & Cheese recipe! Slow-roasted Italian-inspired, this grown-up mac and cheese starts with crispy thick-cut bacon, its drippings forming the base of a magical cheese sauce. Your favorite beer adds a distinctive smoky depth, complemented by a blend of savory spices. Get ready for a super cheesy, unforgettable comfort food experience!

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