Chipotle Chiles in Adobo

Chipotle chiles are jalapeños that have been both dried and smoked. When you cook with them, you get the double hit of hot spice and smoke. They can also be purchased canned as chipotles in adobo, packed in a sauce of tomatoes, garlic, vinegar, and other spices that I find irresistible. Canned chipotles in adobo are readily available in Mexican markets and often in the Mexican section of many supermarkets. Chipotles are pretty powerful, so if you have a low threshold for heat, add a little less than the recipe calls for. You can always add more. If you’re like me, however, you’ll soon be using them in everything. The leftovers freeze well.