Chipotle Meco Flakes

Chipotle Meco is a smoke-dried Jalapeno, but unlike its more well known variety, the Morita, the Meco is light brown in colour, similar to a dried tobacco leaf. It is much less common than the Morita, but often considered superior due to the fact that it is smoked for longer, which gives it a stronger smoke flavour and also more balance. The process also removes more moisture, giving it a slightly different texture, not quite so leathery.

This is a moderately hot chilli, but its main attraction is the unique smoky and fruity flavour. In flakes the Meco doesn’t need rehydrating before use, just add the flakes to your dish during cooking. It works particularly well in dishes such as a Green Chilli (usually made with pork), and also it marries perfectly with tomatillos, fresh green Jalapenos and coriander to make a sharp and smoky salsa verde. If you want a chilli that offers something slightly different to most, the Chipotle Meco is perfect.