About this post
If you’ve ever wondered what to do with chipotles in adobo, this post is for you. I’ll show you how to turn them into a smooth chipotle paste, how spicy they are, the best ways to use them, and easy substitutes when you can’t find a can.
What are chipotles in adobo?
Chipotles are smoked, dried ripe jalapeños. When they’re packed in adobo, they’re combined with a tangy tomato-based marinade seasoned with vinegar, spices, and aromatics. The result is a bold, complex pantry staple used across Mexican and Tex-Mex cooking.
The easiest way to use them is to blend the whole can into a smooth Chipotle paste. So, whether you’re making a batch of taquitos, a cozy pot of soup, or even a quick dressing, just a spoonful of this smoky chile paste brings magic.
Why You’ll Love This Chipotle Paste
- It’s a one-ingredient flavor bomb that elevates tacos, soups, and marinades.
- Super easy to prep and store—perfect for busy home cooks.
- It’s the starting point for so many reader-favorite recipes like chipotle crema, tofu marinade, and taquitos.
- 🤩 Bonus: you’ll finally use up that whole can of chipotles (no more leftovers going bad in the fridge!).
How Spicy Are these peppers?
They sit at 2,500–8,000 Scoville units, putting them in the same ballpark as jalapeños. But the smokiness and vinegar mellow the heat a bit. If you’re spice-sensitive, just start with ½ teaspoon of the paste and build from there.
Home cook tip: Blend the chipotles into a paste and mix it with yogurt, sour cream, or hummus to dial back the heat while keeping that bold flavor.
Chile Spiciness Calculator
How to Store or Freeze Chipotle Paste
Or portion into an ice cube tray, freeze, and transfer to a freezer-safe bag. That way, you can grab a cube whenever you need it or transfer to a jar and store in the fridge for up to 3 months.
Where to Buy Chipotles in Adobo
- In the U.S., most grocery stores carry them in the Latin/Hispanic aisle. Popular brands include La Costeña and Embasa.
- Online: Amazon and Mexican grocers.
- Tip: Always keep one can in your pantry—they last for years unopened.
Quick recipes to enjoy the smoky flavor of chipotles
- Add a spoonful to your refried beans or black beans
- Mix a teaspoon with sour cream or Mexican crema to finish soups or enfrijoladas.
- They are making barbecue sauce a dream.
- Roast tomatillos and garlic, then blend with a tablespoon of chipotle chile paste to make a quick salsa verde for chilaquiles.
- Mix with mayo (chipotle mayo) to make sandwiches
Frequently asked questions
How to make chipotle paste?
Equipment
- Jar with a lid
Ingredients
Instructions
- Open the chipotle chile can and pour the contents into a blender. Blend until smooth. You can also use a food processor.
- Then pour it into a jar and store it in the refrigerator. It will last up to three months. Even though I predict you’ll finish it before.
Nutrition
information
Nutritional information of this recipe is only an estimate, the accuracy for any recipe on this site is not guaranteed.
Hi, I’m Ale Graf!
I’m a Mexican home cook based in Texas and the voice behind AleCooks and Piloncillo & Vainilla.
I create easy, family-friendly recipes with Mexican roots and a plant-forward mindset—always flexible and made to bring people together. I’m also the co-author of Yo Cocino Latino and love helping home cooks feel more confident in the kitchen.
Come say hi on Instagram—I’d love to hear what you’re cooking.