Ancho

Nitrite-free fresh chorizo with allspice, achiote, and three chiles, using local wild hog meat. Try this, and you will never again buy store-bought chorizo.

Make a mean bourbon soda featuring candied mandarinquats with bourbon and ancho chiles. A cure for the Februaries.

I like Mexican-style salsas with dried red chilies and tomatoes blended smooth. Chopped onion and mild green peppers add texture, while hot red and green peppers round out the flavor. Everything gets charred in the broiler or on the grill.

Perfect with grilled meat or in burgers.