Pasilla chili powder is a type of chili powder made from dried Pasilla chilies, which are a type of dried chili pepper commonly used in Mexican cuisine. Pasilla chilies are long and narrow, with a deep reddish-brown color, and are known for their rich, smoky flavor with a mild to medium heat level.
How Pasilla Chili Powder Is Made
To make Pasilla chili powder, the dried chilies are first toasted and then ground into a fine powder. The resulting powder has a deep, earthy flavor with notes of chocolate and raisins, making it a popular ingredient in mole sauces, chili con carne, and other Mexican dishes.
Pasilla chili powder is also a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, and potassium. It is also rich in antioxidants and has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties.
When using Pasilla chili powder in cooking, it is important to note that it has a relatively mild heat level compared to other chili powders like cayenne or chipotle. This makes it a good choice for adding flavor and depth to dishes without overwhelming them with heat.
Overall, Pasilla chili powder is a flavorful and versatile ingredient that adds a unique smoky and earthy flavor to many Mexican dishes, as well as providing numerous health benefits.
Pasilla Chili Powder Can Be Used With Many Meats
Pasilla chili powder is a versatile spice that can add a unique depth of flavor to many meat dishes. This smoky and earthy chili powder pairs particularly well with beef, pork, and chicken, adding a rich and complex flavor that is sure to satisfy your taste buds.
Below, we’ll explore how to pair Pasilla chili powder with different types of meat and provide some specific meat dishes that you can cook at home.
Beef
Pasilla chili powder is a great addition to beef dishes like chili con carne, beef stews, and grilled steaks. The smoky and earthy flavors of the Pasilla chili powder pair perfectly with the rich and savory flavors of beef, creating a complex and satisfying flavor profile.
Try seasoning your next beef stew with a teaspoon of Pasilla chili powder to add a depth of flavor that your taste buds will love.
Pork
Pasilla chili powder also works well with pork dishes like pulled pork, pork chops, and pork carnitas. The smoky and earthy flavors of the Pasilla chili powder complement the sweet and salty flavors of pork, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.
You can also use Pasilla chili powder in a dry rub for your next rack of ribs or pork shoulder to create a delicious smoky flavor.
Chicken
Pasilla chili powder is a great addition to chicken dishes like chicken fajitas, grilled chicken breasts, and chicken tacos. The smoky and earthy flavors of the Pasilla chili powder complement the light and fresh flavors of chicken, creating a unique and flavorful combination.
You can also use Pasilla chili powder in a marinade for your next chicken dish to add a depth of flavor that will make your taste buds sing.
Now, let’s dive into some specific meat dishes that you can cook at home using Pasilla chili powder
Pasilla Chili Powder Meat Dishes
- Beef Chili Con Carne: This classic beef chili recipe is made with ground beef, kidney beans, tomatoes, and a variety of spices, including Pasilla chili powder. The smoky and earthy flavors of the Pasilla chili powder add a depth of flavor to this classic dish that is sure to satisfy your taste buds. Top with some shredded cheese and sour cream for a delicious and hearty meal.
- Pork Carnitas: This popular Mexican dish is made by slow-cooking pork in a mixture of spices, including Pasilla chili powder, until it is tender and flavorful. The smoky and earthy flavors of the Pasilla chili powder complement the sweet and salty flavors of the pork, creating a delicious and satisfying combination. Serve with some fresh cilantro, diced onions, and a squeeze of lime juice for a tasty and authentic Mexican meal.
- Grilled Chicken Fajitas: These delicious fajitas are made with marinated chicken breasts, sautéed peppers and onions, and a variety of spices, including Pasilla chili powder. The smoky and earthy flavors of the Pasilla chili powder add a depth of flavor to the chicken that is sure to impress. Serve with some warm tortillas, shredded cheese, and sour cream for a tasty and satisfying meal.
Final thoughts
Pasilla chili powder is a versatile and delicious spice that pairs perfectly with many meat dishes. Whether you’re cooking beef, pork, or chicken, adding Pasilla chili powder to your dish can take it to the next level and create a unique and satisfying flavor profile that your taste buds will love.