McCormick® Chipotle Chili Pepper always starts with whole, ripe peppers. It brings smoky heat to Mexican-inspired dishes and cocktails. Chipotle chili peppers are smoke-dried jalapeños. The smoke-drying process gives this spice its signature sweet and smoky depth. Essential to Mexican cuisine, it adds moderate heat to chili, salsas, beans, mole sauce and stews. And it's not just for Mexican dishes- it can deliver bold flavor to your favorite recipes. Add to rubs and marinades for grilled meats, ground beef for burgers and tacos, or melted butter for brushing on corn. Sprinkle it on to add zest to Cinco de Mayo and tailgating menus. The smokiness of chipotle also complements sweet chocolate, including hot cocoa and chocolate desserts.