Ancho

Ancho is a dried poblano pepper. Poblano peppers are mild chili peppers native to Puebla, Mexico. When dried, poblano peppers become ancho peppers, which have a smoky, slightly sweet flavor and a leathery texture.

Ancho peppers are used to add a mild, smoky chili flavor to a wide variety of dishes. They are commonly found in Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisine, often used in sauces, marinades, rubs, and seasoning blends. They can also be rehydrated and used in stews and chiles.

Ancho peppers are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA when used as a food ingredient. They are a source of vitamins and antioxidants. While specific health benefits are not definitively established by major health organizations, chili peppers in general have been studied for their potential role in metabolism and inflammation. Evidence is mixed and research is ongoing.