Cascabel Chile

Description

Introduction to Cascabel Chile

Cascabel chile, native to Mexico, is a distinctive variety often associated with childhood memories. Traditionally, these chiles were given to children as toys, as they are kinda like a baby rattle, with seeds that shake inside them. They can also be useful like maracas in an impromptu music session.

The Meaning Behind the Name

The term ‘cascabel’ can be translated to ‘jingle bell’, alluding not only to the playful essence of the chile but also connecting it to the festive spirit of the beloved Christmas song, Jingle Bells.

The Unique Flavor Profile

This medium-heat pepper boasts a unique smoky, earthy nuttiness that sets it apart from other chiles. It is somewhat comparable in heat to our New Mexico Big Jim chile, which is less than Jalapeno or Chipotle. Its versatility makes it ideal for various dishes, enhancing flavors without overwhelming them.

How to Use Cascabel Chile?

Most people will not use cascabel chile as the main chile in a sauce. Instead, it typically plays supporting roles to red salsas made with Guajillo or especially Ancho as the main chile. Ancho chile and cascabel chile go together incredibly well, pairing the raisiny sweetness of the ancho with nuttiness of cascabel. Because this chile only needs one or two per regular sized sauce you make, these 2 oz bags can last a lot longer than you would first think.