Ancho chiles substitutes
Ancho chiles substitutes — 6 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Poblano peppers
Same amount as the ancho chiles
Fresh version of the same pepper.
The best substitutes for ancho chiles are poblano peppers, chipotle peppers, or other dried peppers like guajillo or pasilla, depending on the use.
- Verdict —
- Tweak it
- What changes —
- similar taste, different texture
- Best for —
- cooking
Updated 26 Jul 2026 · no sponsored swaps
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of ancho chiles | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Poblano pepperscooking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 2 | Chipotle pepperscooking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 3 | Guajillo pepperscooking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 4 | Pasilla pepperscooking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 5 | New Mexico chilescooking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 6 | California chilescooking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
Poblano peppers
similar taste, different texture
Fresh version of the same pepper.
- Best for
- cooking, stir-fries, soups, stews
Fresh instead of dried, different texture.
Chipotle peppers
different taste, similar texture
Similar dried pepper with smoky flavor.
- Best for
- cooking, stir-fries, soups, stews
More smoky, different flavor.
Guajillo peppers
different taste, similar texture
Similar dried pepper with mild heat.
- Best for
- cooking, stir-fries, soups, stews
Similar heat level, different flavor.
Pasilla peppers
different taste, similar texture
Similar dried pepper with mild heat.
- Best for
- cooking, stir-fries, soups, stews
Similar heat level, different flavor.
New Mexico chiles
different taste, similar texture
Similar dried pepper with mild heat.
- Best for
- cooking, stir-fries, soups, stews
Similar heat level, different flavor.
California chiles
different taste, similar texture
Similar dried pepper with mild heat.
- Best for
- cooking, stir-fries, soups, stews
Similar heat level, different flavor.
Questions
4 questionsCan I use poblano peppers instead of ancho chiles?
Yes, poblano peppers are a good substitute for ancho chiles. They are the fresh version of the same pepper and can be used in most recipes.
What's the difference between ancho chiles and poblano peppers?
Ancho chiles are dried poblano peppers, while poblano peppers are fresh. Ancho chiles have a more concentrated flavor and smoky notes.
Can I use chipotle peppers instead of ancho chiles?
Yes, chipotle peppers can work as a substitute, though they have a more smoky flavor. They have similar heat level and can be used in most recipes.
Why are ancho chiles so popular in Mexican cooking?
Ancho chiles are popular in Mexican cooking because they add mild, sweet flavor and smoky notes that complement the ingredients and cooking styles of Mexican cuisine.
Tips for substituting ancho chiles
6 tips- Ancho chiles add mild, sweet flavor and smoky notes to dishes
- Ancho chiles can be used in both sweet and savory dishes
- Ancho chiles pair well with herbs, spices, and vegetables
- Ancho chiles work well in stir-fries and soups
- Ancho chiles can be used to make sauces and salsas
- Store ancho chiles in a cool, dry place