Go Back

How to Dry Chili Peppers

Marla Hingley
Warm peppers give off fumes which can irritate the eyes, so be sure to keep the area well-ventilated using the stove's ceiling fan, as well as opening any windows in the area.
Prep Time 10 mins
Cook Time 3 hrs
Total Time 3 hrs 10 mins

Ingredients
  

  • Red Chili Peppers also know as Thai or bird

Instructions
 

  • Wash and dry whole peppers thoroughly, then pull off the stems.
  • Wearing gloves, slice the peppers length-wise through the middle to expose the inside (keep the ends intact). This will open the peppers up and allow them to dry faster.
  • Lay peppers in a single layer on a wire rack placed over a baking sheet or baking stone.
  • Place pan on middle rack in the oven, and heat oven to its lowest setting (120°F - 200°F). Place the tip of a wooden spoon just inside the door to keep it ajar a few inches. This will allow excess moisture to escape which will dry the peppers faster.
  • It should take 2-3 hours for the peppers to be completely dry.
  • As soon as they’re fully dry (completely crisp), remove from the oven, allow to cool completely, then place in an air-tight container They can keep for a year if stored properly.

Notes

-To make crushed red chili flakes, place whole dried chilies (along with seeds) into a food processor and pulse until finely ground.
-To make pure chili powder, separate out the seeds and discard. Use a food processor, or mortar and pestle to grind up only the dried red flesh until it's a fine powder. To make a chili powder seasoning blend, see our Homemade Chili Powder Seasoning recipe.
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!