How to Buy, Clean, and Store Dried Chiles
We made our way through more than 250 dried chiles while developing a recipe and learned a few tips along the way.
Shopping: Look for chiles that are pliable and smell slightly fruity. Avoid those that feel hard or crack when you try to bend them.
Cleaning: Wipe chiles with a damp cloth or paper towel to remove dust or dirt.
Storing: If not using straightaway, preserve the chiles' flavor and texture by sealing them in an airtight container or zipper-lock bag and storing them in a cool, dry place.
Look for flexible dried chiles.
Avoid chiles that crack or tear when bent.
