ancho

American  

[ahn-choh, an-] / ˈɑn tʃoʊ, ˈæn- /

noun

plural

anchos

1. a dried poblano pepper, used whole or ground into a spice, especially in Mexican cooking.

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Etymology

Origin of ancho

First recorded in 1915–20; from Mexican Spanish chile ancho “wide chile,” from Latin amplus “full, wide”; see chili ( def. )

Example Sentences

He honed his craft during the pandemic, developing flavors like red mole topped with sesame, and a Mexican everything spice blend that includes garlic, onion, toasted cumin and ancho chile with a hint of lime.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 9, 2026

The store supplied the guajillo and ancho chiles Garcia’s mother uses to make her salsa.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 27, 2024

This dish aims to be Spanish chicken in salsa brava, but the addition of ancho chilies, traditionally used in Mexican cooking, lends a bit more heat.

From Seattle Times • Dec. 3, 2023

Ground cumin and ancho chili powder add a savory depth to the salad and the spice rub.

From Washington Times • Jun. 9, 2023

Come fin ancho di el sta e fuo grande honor a la Signoria de Venesia e a la sua Citta.”

From The Stones of Venice, Volume III (of 3) by Ruskin, John