All the different varieties of peppers can create some confusion, which is why you may be looking for a guide about where to buy chipotle peppers and how to find them in the grocery store.
Chipotle peppers are a common ingredient in many cuisines. They are available in most grocery stores and other places that sell food. Use the following tips and information to help you choose the best chipotle peppers based on how you plan to use them and what’s available where you shop.
Chipotle peppers are dried and smoked jalapenos. They aren’t as hot as some other peppers which makes them very versatile.
Chipotle peppers come in several different types. They are popular in many cuisines and are readily available in most grocery stores and online grocery retailers. Chipotle peppers add flavor and spice to your dishes. They can be used in tacos, fajitas, soups, dips, and more.
Where Do Chipotle Peppers Come From
Many people don’t realize that chipotles aren’t actually a separate type of pepper. They are simply jalapenos that have been fully ripened, smoked, and dried to provide your favorite dishes with a different flavor when compared to traditional jalapenos.
Chipotle peppers are relatively easy to grow and can be grown in most climates. Jalapenos are seasonal in some areas and are available year-round in others, which means you can find chipotles at the grocery store any time of year.
They have a heat similar to that of the jalapeno but it can vary from pepper to pepper. This type of pepper was originally found mostly in Mexican cuisines but is now used globally in various ethnic dishes.
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How Are Chipotle Peppers Sold
Chipotle peppers come in several different types. Because they are smoked and dried, you can’t technically find fresh chipotle peppers. They do come in canned, dried, or jarred varieties. Some chipotle peppers may have other seasonings added which can be beneficial when cooking certain dishes.
Chipotle peppers can also be found dried and crushed into a seasoning powder. Many chipotle peppers come in adobo sauce, which is a tomato sauce seasoned with various spices. Some stores may sell dried whole chipotle peppers which will usually be found in a plastic package.
Where To Buy Chipotle Peppers
Chipotle peppers are readily available at most grocery stores. You may also find them at ethnic food stores or even at farmer’s markets, especially if you live in an area where they are common.
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If you’re looking for canned or jarred chipotle peppers, they are usually found in the canned vegetable aisle.
Some stores also have them in the ethnic section of the store, most commonly found in the Latin food aisle. Dried whole chipotle peppers may also be found in the produce section of larger supermarkets. As with most non-fresh produce, they can also easily be found online.
Ordering them online is a great option for those who don’t have access to markets with lots of variety, or for anyone who prefers to save money by buying in bulk.
Cost Of Chipotle Peppers
Chipotle peppers are relatively affordable, especially since they are easy to grow and can be grown year-round in warmer climates. They are usually sold by the ounce, especially when you’re purchasing whole peppers.
The type of chipotle you buy, whether dried, canned, or crushed, can also determine the price. When purchased in bulk, you can buy whole dried chipotles for around $16-$20 per pound. If bought in smaller quantities, they are around $1.50 per ounce. The canned varieties are usually more affordable and can often be found for less than 50 cents per ounce.
Dried chipotle pepper seasoning, which usually comes in a spice container, is around $3-$5 per ounce.
Other Tips For Buying Chipotle Peppers
Chipotle peppers are mild in heat, which means that most people tolerate them well and they can be used in many different dishes to add heat and smoke flavor.
Canned chipotle peppers in adobo sauce are great for making chili, soup, sauce, and more. Canned varieties have a long shelf life and are easy to store. Powdered chipotles can be used in place of other types of pepper seasoning. The great thing about the powdered variety is that a little bit goes a long way.
Buying chipotle peppers is no problem when you understand a little about where they come from and how they can be used. Chipotle peppers, whether canned, dried, or powdered, are a great addition to any kitchen.
They can be used to add a spicy and smokey flavor to soups, rice, roasts, tacos, and more. These peppers are quite affordable and they are full of flavor which means it doesn’t take a lot to season your foods. You can find chipotle peppers in most grocery stores, ethnic markets, and online grocery retailers.
Yes, you can substitute fresh chipotle peppers for canned chipotle chilies, but the flavor may be slightly different. To substitute fresh chipotle peppers, you will need to soak them in hot water until soft, then chop and use in your recipe.