What is "chile"?

Chile is a term used to refer to a variety of chili peppers, which are members of the Capsicum genus. These peppers come in various shapes, sizes, colors, and heat levels, ranging from mild to extremely spicy. Chile peppers are widely used in cooking around the world, particularly in Latin American, Asian, and Southwestern cuisines. They can be used fresh, dried, or ground into powder, and are often added to dishes to add flavor, heat, and depth. Common types of chile peppers include jalapeños, habaneros, serranos, and poblanos, each with its own unique flavor profile and level of spiciness.