
Pasilla Chile
The pasilla chile, also known as chile negro, is a dried chili pepper with a rich, smoky flavor and mild to medium heat. These dark, wrinkled chiles, typically 6-8 inches long, boast a complex taste profile often described as raisin-like, with hints of licorice and chocolate. Pasilla chiles are essential in Mexican cuisine, adding depth and subtle warmth to sauces, stews, and moles. When rehydrated, the flesh becomes pliable and lends a deep, dark color to dishes. Discover authentic Mexican recipes using pasilla chiles and elevate your cooking with their distinctive flavor.
Common Uses
- Pasilla chiles are frequently used to create rich and flavorful mole sauces. The dried chiles are toasted, rehydrated, and then blended with other ingredients such as nuts, seeds, spices, and chocolate to form a complex and delicious sauce.- Pasilla chiles are commonly used in adobo marinades for meats. Rehydrated pasilla chiles are blended with vinegar, garlic, herbs, and other spices to create a flavorful marinade that tenderizes and adds depth to beef, pork, or chicken.- Pasilla chile puree is an excellent base for enchilada sauces. The rehydrated chiles are blended into a smooth puree and then simmered with tomatoes, onions, and spices to create a vibrant and flavorful enchilada sauce.- The smoky and mild heat of pasilla chiles makes them perfect for adding depth to soups and stews. Whole dried chiles or pasilla chile powder can be added to impart a rich, complex flavor.- Pasilla chiles can be rehydrated and stuffed with cheese, meat, or vegetables. These stuffed chiles, often known as chiles rellenos, can be baked, fried, or simmered in sauce for a delicious and satisfying dish. - Pasilla powder is also often added to spice rubs for grilled meats and vegetables, lending a smoky flavor and a deep red color to the finished dish
Nutrition (per serving)
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
23.0kcal (1.15%)
Protein
1.1g (2.22%)
Carbs
3.9g (1.41%)
Sugars
1.3g (2.6%)
Healthy Fat
0.6g
Unhealthy Fat
0.2g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
23.0kcal (1.15%)
Protein
1.1g (2.22%)
Carbs
3.9g (1.41%)
Sugars
1.3g (2.6%)
Healthy Fat
0.6g
Unhealthy Fat
0.2g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
Health Benefits
- Rich in antioxidants that help combat free radicals and oxidative stress.
- Good source of Vitamin A, essential for vision, immune function, and skin health.
- Contains capsaicin, which may have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.
- Provides dietary fiber, promoting digestive health and regularity.
- May contribute to improved cardiovascular health due to its potential to lower blood pressure.
Storage Tips
Store dried pasilla chiles in an airtight container in a cool, dark, and dry place like a pantry or spice cabinet. Properly stored, they can maintain their flavor and quality for up to a year. For fresh pasilla peppers, store them in the refrigerator crisper drawer for up to a week. Ensure they are dry before refrigerating to prevent spoilage. You can also freeze fresh chiles for longer storage; simply wash, dry, and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
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