Chipotle Morita Flakes

Chipotle peppers have become increasingly popular in the US with our fairly recent infatuation with "chiles". Chiles immediately bring to mind their heat, but many chiles may also be a bit mild while adding a deliciously subtle flavor to many dishes when used in correct amounts. Chipotles are actually fully ripened and then smoked dried jalapenos (Capsicum annuum).

There are actually two types of Chipotles used in the US. The most common is the Morita which translates to "little blackberry" in Spanish. The harder to find Chipotle is the Meco, also known as chile meco, tipico or chile ahumado. This is the more "authentic" chile preferred in Mexico as it has been smoked longer giving it a richer flavor and a color that is a bit more tan. The Morita is less expensive as it doesn't take as long to smoke.

 

History and Cultivation

Chipotles date back to before the Aztec civilization and originated in the region of Mexico that today is northern Mexico City. Chile historians believe that the Aztecs first smoked jalapeno peppers because the fleshy, thick jalapeno was difficult to dry and tended to rot. This "smoke drying" process was initially used for drying meats but the Aztecs found that smoking allowed the chiles to be stored for long periods of time.

To create Chipotles, Jalapeno peppers are smoked in large, closed smoking chambers. This enures the smokiest flavor possible. Typically, wood is lit in a smoke box and then pushed into the chamber. This is done for anywhere between a few days and a week until the chiles are fully dried.

Our Chipotle "Morita" Flakes are from jalapenos grown in the US.

 

Flavor and Heat

It takes 10 pounds of fresh jalapenos to make one pound of dried Chipotles. The end result is a dark brown to black colored, shriveled pepper that has a smoky and slightly sweet chocolaty flavor and aroma. These chile peppers have a bit of a kick to them and are considered a medium hot chile coming in at 5,000 - 10,000 SHU.

 

Where to Use

Use our Morita Chipotle Flakes anywhere you would normally used crushed red pepper flakes - on pizza, in salads, soups, stews and anywhere you want some authentic Mexican flavor. One of our favorite recipes using these chile flakes is our recipe for Champinones Al Ajillo Spanish Garlic Mushrooms.

 

Helpful Hints

If you're a fan of chile flakes we carry a growing assortment that includes - Jalapeno Flakes, Habanero Flakes, Korean Chile Flakes, Chrushed Maras Chile Flakes and the old stand by Red Pepper Flakes.

If you are a big fan of Chipotle's then be sure to see our Chipotle "Morita" Powder, Dried Chipotle "Morita" Chiles, Chipotle "Meco" Powder and Chipotle "Meco" Chiles.

We also carry a growing selection of dried chiles, hot peppers and chile powders.

** This product is certified kosher.
 

Read More

How Well Do You Know Your Chiles
The Ultimate Guide To Mexican Spices
Intro to Authentic Mexican Cuisine
The Culinary regions of Mexican Cuisine