Although “chipotle” can actually refer to any smoked dried chile, dried chiles offered for sale are typically jalapenos (jalapenos don’t air-dry well, and must be smoked). Chipotles tend to be somewhat hotter than jalapenos and have a wonderful smoky flavor that lends a rich, complex flavor to sauces, stews, and condiments.

Chipotles are sold both dry and lightly pickled and canned (chipotles adobado). Canned chipotles come in small cans and don’t need to be soaked, which makes them convenient for home use.

Grind dry chipotles for a smoky substitute for Chile powder or cayenne, or puree the canned peppers and blend them into sauces and stews.

For an enticing condiment for hamburgers and grilled tuna or chicken sandwiches, add pureed chipotles (canned or soaked) to mayonnaise.

Chipotles are sold both dry and lightly pickled and canned (chipotles adobado). Canned chipotles come in small cans and don’t need to be soaked, which makes them convenient for home use. Store dried peppers in a tightly sealed container; refrigerate canned chipotles with their liquid in a sealed container after opening.