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Keep buyingTHE DEFINITIVE GUIDE TO MEXICAN CHILIES: FROM MILD TO EXTREME.
Dried chiles: the soul and heart of Mexico
In Mexico, chili peppers are not just a condiment; they are a cultural pillar, a fundamental ingredient that gives life and character to our cuisine. They are the base of our moles, marinades, sauces, and broths, offering a spectrum of flavors that goes far beyond simple spiciness.
We understand that, from Europe, choosing the right chili for that recipe you're so eager to try can be overwhelming. Is an ancho chili the same as a pasilla? What's the secret to a good salsa?
At La Pachuqueña , we want to bring authentic Mexican flavors straight to your kitchen. That's why we've created this ultimate guide, where we'll explore the fascinating world of chiles, from the mildest and most aromatic to those that will leave you craving water. Get ready to discover the true taste of Mexico!
FIND YOUR INGREDIENTS HERE!
Looking for the perfect chili for your recipe or those ingredients you can only find in Mexico? At La Pachuqueña , we have the finest selection of dried chilies , spices, and preserves with fast shipping to Spain, France, Germany, and all of Europe.
Understanding spiciness: the Scoville scale
Before we delve into the different types of chili peppers, it's crucial to understand how their spiciness is measured. The heat comes from a compound called capsaicin and is measured in Scoville Heat Units (SHU) .
There are fresh chiles and dried chiles. Dried chiles are the foundation of complex Mexican cuisine. As they dry, they lose moisture and develop irreplaceable smoky, fruity, or chocolatey notes.
| CHILI | Scoville Heat Index (Approximate) | Itch Level | Taste and aroma | Main Use |
|
Chilaca |
Gentle | Roasted, with notes of cocoa. Very mild spiciness. | Marinades, broths, tortilla soup and to season stews like Mole de Olla. | |
|
Mirasol (Dried Guajillo) |
Gentle | Fruity, slightly sweet and earthy. A very subtle spiciness. | Base of the marinade for Cochinita Pibil, tamales, and sauces for enchiladas. | |
|
Poblano |
1,000 – 2,000 SHU | Gentle | Sweet, fruity, not very spicy. | Stuffed chiles, poblano pepper strips, chiles en nogada. |
|
Broad |
1,000 – 2,000 SHU | Gentle | Sweet, fruity, with hints of nuts and a little spice. | To add flavor and color to sauces, moles, marinades, soups and stews. |
|
Mulatto |
1,000 – 2,000 SHU | Gentle | Slightly sweeter than dry anchovy. | Sauces, mole and marinades for stews and marinades. |
|
Jalapeño |
2,500 – 8,000 SHU | Half | Fresh and vegetal, with herbaceous and earthy notes. | Sauces, guacamoles and mayonnaises. |
|
Chipotle (Dried Jalapeño) |
10,000 - 23,000 SHU |
Medium-High | Smoky, spicy and slightly sweet, with hints of nuts and earth. | Sauces, marinades and mayonnaises. |
|
Serrano |
10,000 – 25,000 SHU | Medium-High | Sweet and fresh, with citrus and slightly acidic notes. | Sauces, pickled chilies. |
|
Habanero |
100,000 – 350,000 SHU | Extreme | Fruity and floral aroma with citrus, apple, or ginger notes. Intense and explosive heat. | Very spicy sauces, pickled peppers, mayonnaises and dressings. |
Which chili should I choose for my recipe?
If you want to cook an authentic tortilla soup or prepare an unforgettable broth:
You need the perfect combination of flavor and color. Get the Essential Dried Chiles Kit ( Chipotle , Ancho, and Guajillo ) from La Pachuqueña and receive the basic recipe for a traditional adobo.
If you want to make mayonnaise for hamburgers and patatas bravas:
It uses the traditional chipotle chile, which is actually a jalapeño pepper that has been dried and smoked. This process gives it a distinctive sweet and smoky flavor. La Costeña chipotle chile is an excellent choice!
If you want to prepare pico de gallo, make a sauce for enchiladas, or top some delicious nachos:
Choose the king of chilies: the jalapeño. It's the most popular chili in the world and perfect for those who are adventurous, but without the risk of losing their minds. Doña Chole's jalapeño salsa is definitely our favorite, and sliced Carey jalapeños are the star ingredient of authentic Mexican nachos.
If you're preparing cochinita pibil or need a special touch for your grilled seafood:
Dare to try the habanero! Lol Tun pickled jalapeños are ideal to accompany traditional cochinita pibil. Pepe Comala habanero salsa is the perfect complement to grilled octopus or fish.
Conclusion: the taste of Mexico at a click
We hope this guide has helped you demystify the world of chili peppers. Remember: the secret of Mexican cuisine isn't the spiciness, but the flavor. complex flavor that each chili contributes.
In At La Pachuqueña , we've carefully selected the finest chiles and ingredients so you can recreate the authentic flavors of Mexico in your European home. Whether you're looking for the sweetness of ancho for your stews or the fiery heat of habanero for your salsa, we have it all!
Explore the complete collection of ingredients and dried chiles at La Pachuqueña and start cooking authentic cuisine today!