tipotle

Chipotle is a smoky, medium-hot chili pepper made from dried, smoked jalapeños. The name "chipotle" comes from the Nahuatl word "chilpoctli," meaning "smoked chili." Chipotles are a staple ingredient in many Mexican cuisines and are also used in Tex-Mex and other global dishes. They are typically sold dried, as a powder, or reconstituted in adobo sauce.

The smoking process gives chipotles their distinctive flavor profile, which is often described as earthy, woody, and with notes of chocolate or coffee. The heat level of a chipotle pepper is generally considered to be moderate, ranging from 2,500 to 8,000 Scoville Heat Units (SHU), though this can vary.

Chipotles are versatile and can be used in a wide array of culinary applications. They can be ground into a spice for rubs and marinades, added whole to stews and sauces for a deep smoky flavor, or blended into salsas and dips. The adobo sauce they are often packed in is also highly flavorful and can be used as a base for sauces or as a condiment. The dried peppers can be rehydrated in hot water before use, making them more pliable for blending or stuffing.