Chiles, Smoked Serrano, Whole
When you think of serrano chiles you probably think of the bright green chile available fresh at many markets. Well, this dried chile is different. These chiles are left on the vine to mature and turn a scarlet red. Only then is it picked and smoked dry. Called a chile seco when dried, serrano chiles have a spicy, lingering flavor with subtle notes of berry. Rating at about 4-5 on a heat scale of 1-10, they can be exchanged for chipotles for a slightly different flavor.

1/4 oz.	$1.15
1/2 oz.	$1.70
1 oz.	$2.80
2 oz.	$4.50
4 oz.	$7.30

The primary use for these dried chiles is to make authentic spicy sauces. They also pair well with mango or pineapple for a sweet and spicy salsa. When using dried chiles, you can opt to toast them first for added flavor and re-hydrate them by soaking in hot tap water for about 20 minutes. Don't soak any longer or they can become bitter.

The #1 factor that contributes to a chile's heat level is its maturity. While capsaicin is present at the beginning of the fruit's development, the amount of capsaicin increases as the chile matures.

- Chile Today.com