Dolores Borunda's easycook.com Chipotle Peppers Ripe, red jalapeño peppers that have been slowly wood-smoked, chipotle peppers are rich, smoky and hot (but not searing). Throughout Mexico and Central America, chipotle peppers, also known as moritas, are regarded as a versatile and necessary addition to many dishes. Commonly used to add a deep smoky flavor to traditional Mexican dishes, such as red chili sauce, the use of chipotle peppers has exploded with the popularity of American Southwest cooking. A dash of chipotle is a perfect addition to everything, from barbecue and breadsticks, to soup and salsa. Whole red chipotles are sweet and hot, fresh and pliable. Add whole to chili, tomato sauce, stew, beans and rice, or soak in oil, then chop (use the oil for smoky pepper flavor, too). Great for adding to tortilla chips, homemade pizza and spaghetti sauce. Ground Chipotle Pepper is an attractive, coarse red powder that is so easy to use it almost seems like cheating. Chipotle pepper powder makes an attractive tabletop shaker for pizza, tacos, salads and sub sandwiches, or sprinkle a bit on a roast, in a sauce, salsa, casserole, marinated vegetables or a robust green salad with a cumin vinaigrette dressing. Back to the Chili Pepper page. Visit our Chili Pepper Recipes.

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