Poblano
1,500 SHU · Capsicum annuum
MildHeat range
1,000 to 2,000 SHU. Typical: 1,500 SHU.
Individual peppers vary within this range based on growing conditions, ripeness, and genetic variation. See the Scoville scale guide for why the range matters.
Flavor and character
Poblano has flavors of earthy, slightly smoky, rich, mild sweetness.
The poblano is the workhorse of Mexican cuisine. Fresh, it has thick walls that make it ideal for stuffing and roasting. The heat is barely noticeable to most people, sitting just above a bell pepper. When dried, the poblano becomes an ancho chile, which is darker, sweeter, and slightly more concentrated in flavor. Poblanos are essential in chiles rellenos, rajas con crema, and many mole recipes. Their mild heat makes them one of the most approachable peppers for people who are cautious about spice. Occasionally a poblano will surprise you with a hotter-than-expected bite, but this is uncommon.
How it’s used
Poblano is commonly used in chiles rellenos, rajas, mole, roasting and peeling.
What to use instead
These substitutions match heat, not flavor. Flavor character changes substantially between peppers. For custom quantities, use the substitution calculator.
Compare with another pepper
Other peppers to explore
Frequently asked questions
How hot is Poblano compared to a jalapeño?
Poblano and jalapeños are in a similar heat range. Poblano at 1,500 SHU is roughly comparable to a jalapeño at 5,000 SHU.
What does Poblano taste like?
Poblano has flavors of earthy, slightly smoky, rich, mild sweetness. Beyond the heat, these flavor notes distinguish it from other peppers at similar Scoville ratings.
Can I grow Poblano at home?
Yes. Poblano grows well in USDA zones 7+ and can be grown in containers in cooler zones. Start seeds indoors 8–10 weeks before last frost. Full sun, moderate water, and well-drained soil produce the best results.
Is Poblano hotter than Pasilla (Chilaca)?
No. Pasilla (Chilaca) at 2,500 SHU typical is hotter than Poblano at 1,500 SHU. Compare them side by side on the comparison tool.
What's a good substitute for Poblano?
The closest substitutes are Bell Pepper and Guajillo. These share similar heat ranges and compatible flavor profiles. For exact quantity ratios, use the substitution calculator.
What is Poblano's Scoville rating?
Poblano ranges from 1,000 to 2,000 SHU, with a typical measurement of 1,500 SHU. This range reflects natural variation in capsaicin production due to growing conditions, ripeness, and genetics.