Guajillo Chile Flakes, Capsicum annuum, are medium-heat chile flakes that measure 2,500-5,000 Scoville Heat Units (SHU). They are also called guajillo flakes, guajillo chili flakes or guajillo chile pepper flakes.

When Guajillo chiles are fresh and on or just off the vine, they are called Mirasol chiles. Once they’re fully ripe, harvested, and dried, and have taken on the deeper flavors that come with drying, then they are renamed and called guajillo. The rich flavor of this medium heat chile makes it a versatile favorite and a top-selling Mexican chile.

Businesses that frequently purchase Guajillo Chili Flakes are: 

• American and Asian/Asian Fusion restaurants; 
• food trucks; 
• seasoning companies; 
• independent spice shops; 
• caterers; 
• butchers; and 
• companies that manufacture honey and sausage

One teaspoon of Guajillo Chile Flakes is roughly equal to one teaspoon Guajillo Chile Powder or one whole Guajillo Chile. 

Flavor Profile 

Guajillo Chile Flakes have a bold, round fragrance that smells like pepper and stone fruits, and a tart flavor reminiscent of cranberries and dark cherries.

Heat Level

Guajillo Chile Flakes are a medium-heat chile that measures 2,500-5,000 Scoville Heat Units (SHU). This is around the same heat as a jalapeno, though perhaps a touch milder.

How To Use

Guajillo Chile Flakes add terrific flavor to Pasilla de Oaxaca Black Bean Dip. They add fruity, bold flavor to stews like Pozole Rojo or hearty Birria. They bring spicy, fruity sass to Chile Marinated Pork, or add a teaspoon of Guajillo Chile Flakes to Roasted Tomato Salsa for an extra layer of delicious heat. They’re perfect for pickling or marinating, and make an unforgettable Marinated Smoky Feta that your friends and family will come back for again and again. 

Choose versatile Guajillo Chile Flakes when making chicken, beef, pork, seafood, cheese, bean, tofu, and other vegetarian dishes. Add to plain starchy dishes like potatoes and rice. Great with cheese, tomatoes, cream, corn, soups, stews, chilis, pickling brines, and marinades.

Guajillo Chiles pair well with coconut, shallots, chocolate, garlic, onion, Mexican and Greek oregano, tamarind, cloves, allspice, cinnamon, turmeric, cumin, lime juice, and coriander.