poblano chile
[ poh-BLAH-noh ]
A dark (sometimes almost black) green
CHILE with a rich flavor that varies from mild to snappy. The darkest poblanos have the richest flavor. This
CHILE is about 2 1/2 to 3 inches wide and 4 to 5 inches long, tapering from top to bottom in a triangular shape. The very best poblanos are found in central Mexico, though they are now also grown in the U.S. Southwest. Fresh poblanos can be found in Mexican markets and in many supermarkets. Their peak season is summer and early fall. They're also available canned. Ripe poblanos turn a reddish-brown color and are sweeter than the green. In their dried state they're known as
ANCHO or
MULATOCHILEs. Poblanos can be used in a variety of dishes, but are perhaps best known as the
CHILE of choice for
CHILES RELLENOS. See also
CHILE.
© Copyright Barron's Educational Services, Inc. 1995 based on THE FOOD LOVER'S
COMPANION, 2nd edition, by Sharon Tyler Herbst.
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