Chile Ancho is a type of dried red chili pepper that is commonly used in Mexican cuisine. The mild, smoky variety has a mild level of heat and a distinct, rich smoky flavor. The Chile Ancho is a large, wrinkled pepper with a deep red color and a smoky, sweet taste. It's often used to make salsas, sauces, marinades, and soups, as well as being a key ingredient in traditional Mexican dishes like mole sauce and tamales. The Chile Ancho is usually sold in a powder form, but can also be found whole, rehydrated or in flakes. The smoky flavor comes from the drying process, which is done over a wood fire. This pepper is considered mild in terms of heat and it's perfect for those who prefer a milder flavor profile with a smoky touch.