Did you know that when hot peppers are smoked and dried they are called by a different name? For example, when jalapenos are dried & smoked they are called chipotles. Often times the dried pepper names are not as commonplace as the fresh peppers we see on menus and in the supermarkets.
A pepper's spice or heat level is measured by Scoville units. Capsaicin is a colorless & odorless compound that contains fiery heat and is actually concentrated in the inner white pith or rib of the chile pepper. Since capsaicin is not water-soluble, it doesn't evaporate as the peppers are being dried. As a result, dried peppers have just as much heat if not more than their fresh counterparts- since the drying process creates a more concentrated space inside of the pepper.
Poblano & Ancho
Ancho flavor profile: ripe fruit flavors, lightly smoky, mildly spicy
The Ancho is a poblano chile that has been ripened to a deep red, then picked and dried. Generally speaking, it has mild to moderate heat but can differ from pepper to pepper.
Jalapeno & Chipotle
Morita Chipotle: Tough skinned, smoky, medium heat
The Morita Chipotle is a smaller jalapeno varietal this allows it to ripen quicker and it is fully ripe before the smoking and drying process begins. Chipotles are known for their distinct smokiness and earthy flavor.
Red Hatch & Mirasol Peppers
Guajillo peppers have a rich, slightly earthy, and fruity flavor profile. Their fresh pepper counterpart is the Mirasol Pepper. Their flavor profile has notes of tomatoes, berries, and green tea that elevate each and every Mexican dish you add them to. They are best known for their unique flavor profile, rather than their heat!
Hatch chiles are New Mexico chiles that are grown in the small town of Hatch, New Mexico, and are considered premium green and red chiles. They are a good pick when you want your dish to not be that spicy. Similar to Guajillo peppers, they have an earthy and sweet flavor profile with sweet cherry undertones.
Other Hot Peppers on Inventory
Shishito Peppers are small, bright green, somewhat wrinkled-looking peppers. Most of the peppers are very mildly spicy and even a bit sweet, but occasionally you’ll come across one that’s got some serious kick. Highly sought after by chefs, these small, spicy-sweet, thin-walled, glossy peppers grow up to 3-4 inches long. A quick pan saute and a sprinkle of sea salt turns into a crunchy, savory, addictive snack!
Serrano Peppers are often confused with jalapeño peppers but are smaller and can pack up to 10 times the heat. Torpedo shaped and typically no longer than 2 inches, serrano peppers can be found in a rainbow of colors depending on ripeness, from green to yellow, orange, red, and even brown. Serrano peppers taste vegetal, similar to green bell pepper, with a slight sweetness. It also has a natural smoky flavor that is mild but very pleasant. Their texture is crunchy and crisp and is excellent for cooking.
Depending on the seasonal availability, we always have a selection of hot peppers on inventory, or with a short lead time to source for you. Give us a call at 585-272-7070 to find out what we currently have on inventory or to place a special order!