How to Make Dried Chipotle Chiles

Step 1

Set smoker temperature to 200°F.

Step 2

For the wood chips or pellets, pecan is the traditional Mexican wood, but I also like to use a mild, fruity wood like apple or cherry. Hickory or oak work well too if you don't have the others. We will be smoking for 3 hours, so plan accordingly.

Step 3

Wash and dry the jalapeños. Make a slit with a paring knife from stem to tip along the side of each chile pepper. Place in a single layer on a wire rack (or racks) that will fit the inside of your smoker.

Step 4

Smoke the jalapeños for 3 hours. Remove from smoker (and if not storing in adobo sauce) you will need to dry these completely, see below step.

Step 5

Using a dehydrator works best, but 6-10 hours in an oven set at it's lowest temperature, or 200°F, will do (See Note 1). Store in an airtight container or grind for chipotle powder.