Published by: Gourmet Sleuth Last Updated: 06/24/2019
Chipotle peppers date back to region that is now northern Mexico City, prior to the Aztec civilization. It is conjectured that the Aztecs smoked the chilies because the thick, fleshy, jalapeno was difficult to dry and prone to rot. The Aztecs used the same "smoke drying" process for the chilies as they used for drying meats. This smoking allowed the chilies to be stored for a substantial period of time.
Today Chipotles are used widely throughout Mexico as well as in the United States. Quite popular in the South Western U.S. and California; Chipotles have found their way into the cuisine of many celebrity chefs from Hawaii to Manhattan.
It is possible to smoke your own chilies using your home smoker. Frequently the quality is not quite as good as the commercial variety. If you are an accomplished "home smoker" and you'd like to give it a try, here is a link to instructions. GourmetSleuth, Home Smoked Chipotle Chiles.
Simple Chipotle BBQ Sauce - You can whip this Simple Chipotle BBQ Sauce recipe together in just 15 minutes, start to finish with ingredients you probably have in your pantry. Makes about 3 3/4 cups of sauce. Use on chicken, beef or pork.
Spicy Chipotle Beef (Puntas al chipotle) - This recipe combines boneless beef, onions, chipotle in adobo chiles and worcestershire sauce. Serve with warmed corn tortillas and a salad.
Chipotle Fajitas - Steak is marinated for 30 minutes, sauteed with onion and bell peppers and served with avocado, sour cream and salsa.