Red Chipotle (Jalapeño) — Smoked Red Chilies
Red chipotle is made from ripe red jalapeños (Capsicum annuum) that are slowly smoked and dried. Expect medium heat with rich, sweet-smoky depth—ideal for sauces, stews, marinades, rubs and salsas.
- Common name: Red chipotle (smoked red jalapeño)
- Botany: Capsicum annuum • Family: Solanaceae
- Piquancy (site scale): 6–7/10
- Heat (Scoville guide): ~5,000–10,000 SHU (varies by crop and seed/placenta content)
- Forms: whole pods, flakes, or powder
- Aroma: smoke, dried red fruit, cocoa, gentle sweetness
Flavor & Aroma
Warm, rounded chili heat with pronounced smoke and notes of dried cherry, cocoa and tomato. Riper fruit gives a sweeter profile than green chipotle.
Culinary Uses & Pairings
Blend into adobo and enchilada sauces, chili, stews and braises; rub onto chicken, pork or vegetables; enrich mayo or crema for tacos and burgers. Excellent with tomato or tomatillo, lime, garlic, onion, cumin, coriander seed and Mexican oregano.
How to Prepare
- Toast (pods/flakes): 10–20 s in a dry pan until fragrant; do not scorch.
- Rehydrate (pods): soak 10–15 min in hot water; drain well. Reserve soaking liquid to thin sauces.
- Bloom (powder): stir into hot oil or fat for 10–20 s before adding liquids.
Dosage & Tips
- Sauces/stews: start with 1/2 tsp powder or 1 small rehydrated pod per 500 ml (2 cups) base.
- Dry rubs: 1/4–1/2 tsp per 250 g (9 oz) meat or veg.
- Balance smoke with acidity (lime, vinegar) and freshness (cilantro, scallion).
Ingredients & Allergens
Ingredients: Smoked red jalapeños (Capsicum annuum).
Allergens: none mandatory in EN labeling for this single ingredient.
Storage & Shelf Life
Keep airtight, cool, dry and away from light. Freeze pods for long storage. Use powders within 12–18 months for best color and aroma.
Substitutes & Notes
No chipotle on hand? Use smoked paprika plus a pinch of cayenne (about 4:1) for smoke and heat, or guajillo with smoked paprika for a fruitier, milder profile.
Related Entries
- Green chipotle (jalapeño)
- Guajillo chili
- Mexican oregano
FAQ
How hot is red chipotle?
Medium—roughly jalapeño territory (~5,000–10,000 SHU), with perceived heat influenced by seeds and membranes.
Pods or powder?
Pods add body and texture to sauces; powder is quick and consistent. Brief toasting or blooming improves depth.
How does it differ from green chipotle?
Red chipotle uses ripe red jalapeños and tastes sweeter and deeper; green chipotle is fresher and more herbaceous.
Merchant contact: Orlandosidee — Spice Shop (see site imprint for full company details). Image: serving suggestion.