Pequin Chile Powder is ground from the small, red-brown chiles with a fruity flavor and pronounced heat. Only about 1/2- to 1-inch when ripe, the name “Pequin” (sometimes spelled “Piquin”) is probably derived from the Spanish word “pequeño,” meaning “small.” These diminutive chiles actually pack quite a bit of heat and flavor. At 40,000 to 70,000 Scoville Units, they are approximately 20 times as hot as a typical jalapeño chile.

Pequin Chiles are closely related to Tepin Chiles (which are also known as “Chiltepin Chiles”). The flavor and heat of these chiles are very similar. In fact the key distinguishing factors of the two varieties include Pequin Chiles are domesticated while Tepins are frequently harvested from wild sources, and Pequins tend to have a more pronounced taper to their shape. Both varieties are a well-know food source for migratory birds (birds aren’t sensitive to the capsaicin that gives chiles their heat), a fact often used to explain why both Pequin and Tepin Chiles are sometimes called “Bird Chiles.”

As a member of the Capsicum annuum family, Pequin Chiles are close relatives of chiles which have been part of the human diet in the Americas since at least 7,500 B.C. While they are now staples in many cuisines, they were not introduced to Europe and Asia until the late 1400s when they were brought to Spain and quickly traded for their culinary variety and as a cheaper alternative to pricey peppercorns.

Our Pequin Chile Powder is a delicious, single-variety chile powder that should not be confused with “chili powder” which typically contains a variety of powdered chiles and other spices. Pequin Chile Powder is a great source what Mexican cuisine calls “arrebatado” (meaning “sudden” or “violent”) heat because it is aggressively hot but fades quickly, leaving a pronounced fruity flavor.

Suggested uses

Basic prep

Storage & handling

Store in a dry, cool place.

Ingredients

Dried pequin chiles