dried poblano crossword – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're tackling the clue "dried poblano" in your crossword puzzle, you've come to the right place. We provide quick, accurate solutions and helpful context to get you unstuck and improve your puzzle-solving skills.
Solutions for "dried poblano crossword" by Letter Count
The most common and accurate answer for the clue "dried poblano" is:
5 Letters
ANCHO: A common dried form of the poblano pepper, widely used in Mexican cuisine.
More About "dried poblano crossword"
The clue "dried poblano" almost universally points to the word "ANCHO." This is because an ancho pepper is quite literally a poblano pepper that has been dried. Poblano peppers are relatively mild chili peppers originating from Puebla, Mexico. When fresh, they are often used in dishes like chile rellenos. Once dried, their flavor deepens, becoming fruitier and earthier with a mild heat, making them indispensable in traditional Mexican dishes such as moles, adobos, and various sauces.
Understanding this transformation from fresh (poblano) to dried (ancho) is key for crossword enthusiasts. Puzzle constructors love to use specific culinary terms that have direct, concise answers. The word "ANCHO" fits perfectly into many crossword grids due to its common length and unique association with its fresh counterpart. Recognizing this relationship can help you solve not only this particular clue but also similar food-related entries.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Think Culinary: Many crosswords feature clues about food, spices, and ingredients. Knowing common terms for dried or processed forms of fresh ingredients (like poblano to ancho) can be a huge advantage.
- Consider Etymology: Words of Spanish or Nahuatl origin are common in clues related to Mexican cuisine. Understanding these linguistic roots can sometimes provide a hint.
- Cross-Reference Known Letters: If you're stuck, fill in any crossing letters from other clues. Even one letter can often unlock a difficult word like ANCHO, especially if you know its length.
- "Dried" is a Key Modifier: Always pay close attention to modifiers in a clue. "Dried" signals that you're looking for a specific, processed form of the base ingredient, not the fresh version.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an ancho pepper?
An ancho pepper is simply a dried poblano pepper. When fresh, it's called a poblano; once dried, it transforms into an ancho. It's a cornerstone of Mexican cuisine, prized for its mild heat, smoky-sweet flavor, and versatility in sauces, rubs, and stews.
Why is "dried poblano" a common crossword clue?
The clue "dried poblano" is common because "ancho" is a relatively short, unique word that directly refers to the dried form of a well-known culinary ingredient. It tests knowledge of specific food terminology, making it a favorite for puzzle constructors looking for a concise and direct answer.
Are there other crossword answers related to peppers?
Yes, many! Common pepper-related answers include CHILE (a general term for a pepper), JALAPENO (a fresh hot pepper), HABANERO (a very hot pepper), BELL (a sweet, non-spicy pepper), or even words describing their use like PAPRIKA (a spice made from dried peppers) or CAPSICUM (the genus name for peppers). Context from surrounding letters is key.