Chipotle

DESCRIPTION

Chipotle is a ripened jalpeño pepper that has been smoked and then dried. Because it is ripe, it is bright red in color and slightly sweeter and hotter than a traditional green jalapeno. When the peppers are smoked and dried they shrivel up and turn dark reddish brown and even black. They can be found whole or ground into powder or flakes and are commonly used in Central and North American cuisine including both Mexican as well as Tex-Mex. The word chipotle comes from the Aztecs, meaning smoked chili. Smoking and drying the jalpeño pepperwas originally a way of conserving it, but chipotle quickly became popular for it´s unique sweet, smoky and nutty flavor. It is used in both sweet and savory dishes including casseroles, stews, bean chilies, tacos, vegetable stocks, soups, marinades, sauces, dressings, spreads, salsas, tortillas, nut cheeses and chocolate.

VOLUME

Very loud

FLAVOR PAIRING

Arugula, avocado, basil, beans, bell peppers, carrots, chocolate, cilantro, corn, cumin, garlic, honey, lemon, lime, maple syrup, miso mushrooms, mustard, olive oil, onions, oranges, oregano, paprika, black pepper, pomegranates, potatoes, quinoa, rice, salt, spinach, butternut squash, coconut sugar, sweet potatoes, tamari, tofu, tempeh, tomatoes, tomatillos, vinegar and wine. 

SUBSTITUTIONS

Smoked paprika mixed with chili powder. The smoked paprika provide a sweet and smoky flavor, whereas the chili contributes with heat. 

Ancho chili powder is another substitute for Chipotle chili powder. It is sweet with a hint of smoke, although not quite as hot as Chipotle. 

STORAGE:
Store in an airtight container in a cool and dark place. For extra flavor and freshness, store the chili whole and grind just before using.