Mulato Chiles

Mulato chiles are dried Poblanos. The name Poblanos pays homage to the native region these chiles were first cultivated which is a city in Mexico called Pueblo. Poblano translates to "pepper from Pueblo". Dried Mulato chiles are part of the "holy trinity" of Mexican chiles (along with the dried Ancho Chile and the dried Pasilla Chile). Mulato chiles are from the plant species Capsicum annum.

Mulato chilies are grown in central Mexico and these are a wide chile, about 2-3 inches wide and about 4 inches long. These dark brown chiles have a medium thick skin and are only sold dried.

Closely Related to the Ancho Chile

Mulato Chiles are very similar in appearance to the Ancho chile and they are closely related. Both are Poblano chiles and the difference between the two is when they're harvested.

The color of these chiles while growing is dark green. Ancho chiles are picked when they ripen to red and they're then dried. Mulato chiles are allowed to fully ripen turning a dark brown where they're then harvested and dried. This additional ripening time adds to the Mulato’s flavor characteristics and they're more full-bodied and complex in flavor than the Ancho. The added nuanced flavor gives them a special role in authentic Mexcian cuisine.

Heat Level and Flavor Profile

The flavor profile of Mulato chiles is a bit sweet with hints of smoky chocolate, licorice, cherries and coffee.

With a Scoville heat rating (SHU) of 2500 - 3000, this is a delicious way to add low-moderate heat to your dish with robust flavor.

How to Use

Along with the other two members of the “holy trinity” the Ancho and Pasilla Chiles, the Mulato chiles are a key ingredient in mole poblano, which is also known as Mexican mole, a dark brown chocolaty and spicy sauce that is usually served over chicken or meat. Dried mulato chiles are ideal for mole recipes due to their dark brown color after soaking.

You’ll also find Mulato Chiles used in other Mexican sauces and stews, including chicken with rice. Cooks in Mexico make stuffed Mulato peppers (similar to stuffed Poblanos) by rehydrating the chile pods, removing the seeds and then stuffing the pods with breadcrumbs, cheese and shrimp. These are then pan fried in oil.

Helpful Hints

There are approximately 3 Mulato Chiles per ounce.

To rehydrate your dried chiles rinse them first with warm water, then fully submerge in warm or hot water and let them soak for 10 minutes to rehydrate. Once rehydrated, dice or puree and add to your recipe. You can also add them directly to any recipe that that has enough liquid and will cook at least 10 minutes.

If you are a fan of Mexican chiles you’ll find our growing collection of dried chiles to your likening. In addition to the Ancho and Pasilla chiles we also carry - Habanero Chiles, Guajillo Chiles, Cascabel, Chiles, Chipotle Morita Chiles and Chipotle Meco (brown chipotles) Chiles and de Arbol Chiles.

** This product is certified kosher.