dried poblano pepper

Dried Poblano Pepper

Dried poblano peppers, also known as ancho chiles, are a culinary staple prized for their mild heat and rich, fruity flavor. These peppers, with their deep reddish-brown color and wrinkled skin, offer a subtle sweetness with hints of chocolate and coffee. Ancho chiles are a key ingredient in many Mexican dishes, adding depth and complexity to sauces, stews, and spice rubs. When ground, dried poblano pepper becomes ancho chile powder, a versatile spice with a moderate heat level, perfect for adding a touch of Southwestern flair to your cooking. The texture, when rehydrated, is pliable and soft, making it easy to incorporate into recipes.

Common Uses

  • To make authentic mole sauce: Dried poblano peppers are essential for creating a rich and complex mole sauce. They are typically rehydrated, blended with other ingredients like nuts, spices, and chocolate, then simmered to develop intense flavors.
  • As a base for enchilada sauce: Ancho chiles provide the signature smoky and fruity flavor in many enchilada sauces. Rehydrate the peppers and blend into a smooth sauce.
  • In chili recipes: Ancho chile powder adds a smoky depth and mild heat to chili recipes. It complements other chili peppers and spices, creating a well-rounded flavor profile.
  • For flavoring stews and braises: Add whole or chopped rehydrated dried poblano peppers to stews and braises to infuse them with a subtle smoky sweetness. They pair well with meats like beef, pork, and chicken.
  • As a dry rub for grilled meats: Combine ground ancho chile powder with other spices like cumin, garlic powder, and oregano to create a flavorful dry rub for grilling steaks, chicken, or ribs. This creates a delicious crust and enhances the natural flavors of the meat.
  • To make adobo sauce: Use rehydrated dried poblano peppers as the base of a homemade adobo sauce to marinate meat or vegetables. This sauce can also be used as a condiment or dipping sauce.

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories

17.0kcal (0.85%)

Protein

0.7g (1.4%)

Carbs

3.3g (1.2%)

Sugars

1.0g (2%)

Healthy Fat

0.2g

Unhealthy Fat

0.0g

% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet

Health Benefits

  • Rich in Vitamin A, supporting vision and immune function.
  • Good source of Vitamin C, an antioxidant that boosts immunity and promotes skin health.
  • Contains capsaicin, which may have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.
  • Provides dietary fiber, aiding digestion and promoting gut health.
  • Offers antioxidants that help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.
  • Low in calories and fat, making it a healthy addition to meals.

Substitutes

Storage Tips

Dried poblano peppers, also known as ancho peppers, should be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dark, and dry place. This will help maintain their flavor and prevent them from becoming brittle. Properly stored, they can last for up to a year. You can also freeze them in an airtight container for longer storage, although this might slightly affect their texture.

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