Out of Ancho chiles, one case
Can I substitute New Mexico chiles for ancho chiles?
2 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use New Mexico chiles
Same amount as the ancho chiles
Yes, you can substitute New Mexico chiles for ancho chiles in a 1:1 ratio. New Mexico chiles are very similar to ancho chiles in flavor and heat, making them an excellent substitute.
- Best for —
- sauces
One casethe full ancho chiles card
Why it works
Ancho chilesNew Mexico chiles and ancho chiles are both mild dried peppers commonly used in Mexican cooking. They have very similar heat levels and flavor profiles, making them excellent substitutes for each other. New Mexico chiles are slightly sweeter while ancho chiles are more smoky.
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of ancho chiles |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | New Mexico chilessauces | Same amount |
| 2 | New Mexico chiles + smoked paprikawhen you want more smoky flavor | Same amountPlus ½ tsp smoked paprika per chile |
New Mexico chiles
sweet · similar texture
Mild, sweet dried peppers with similar heat level to ancho chiles. Excellent substitute for ancho chiles.
- Best for
- sauces, moles, stews, when you want sweetness
Soak in hot water for 30 minutes before using. Very similar to ancho chiles in flavor and heat.
New Mexico chiles + smoked paprika
sweet and smoky · similar texture
Add smoked paprika to New Mexico chiles to increase smokiness and better match ancho chile flavor.
- Best for
- when you want more smoky flavor, sauces, moles
Mix ½ teaspoon smoked paprika per New Mexico chile to add smoky notes that mimic ancho chiles.
Ancho chiles for New Mexico
smoky · similar texture
Dried poblano peppers with mild heat and smoky, sweet flavor. Good substitute for New Mexico chiles.
- Amount
- Same amount
- Best for
- sauces, moles, stews, when you want smoky notes
Soak in hot water for 30 minutes before using. More smoky and less sweet than New Mexico chiles.
How it behaves in this recipe
When substituting between New Mexico chiles and ancho chiles, consider the flavor profile you want. New Mexico chiles provide sweetness while ancho chiles offer smoky, sweet flavor.
Tips for substituting ancho chiles
5 tips- Soak dried chiles in hot water for 30 minutes before using to rehydrate and soften them
- Remove stems and seeds from dried chiles before using
- Blend rehydrated chiles with other ingredients for smooth sauces
- Store dried chiles in airtight containers in cool, dry places
- Toast dried chiles lightly before soaking for enhanced flavor
Notes on ancho chiles
- Add smoked paprika to New Mexico chiles for more smoky flavor
- Use fresh poblano peppers when you want brighter, fresher flavor
- Combine New Mexico and ancho chiles for balanced flavor
- Consider the specific dish when choosing your substitute
Questions
5 questionsCan I use New Mexico chiles instead of ancho chiles?
Yes, New Mexico chiles are an excellent substitute for ancho chiles in a 1:1 ratio. They have very similar flavor and heat levels.
What's the difference between New Mexico chiles and ancho chiles?
New Mexico chiles are slightly sweeter while ancho chiles are more smoky. Both have mild heat levels and are commonly used in Mexican cooking.
Can I use ancho chiles instead of New Mexico chiles?
Yes, ancho chiles can substitute for New Mexico chiles in a 1:1 ratio. They are more smoky and sweet, while New Mexico chiles are slightly sweeter.
Why are New Mexico chiles popular in Mexican cooking?
New Mexico chiles are popular in Mexican cooking because they add mild heat and sweet flavor that complements many traditional dishes and sauces.
Do I need to adjust the recipe when substituting chiles?
Generally no ratio adjustment is needed, but consider the flavor differences. New Mexico chiles are slightly sweeter while ancho chiles are more smoky.