Ancho chiles, literally "wide" chiles, are the dried form of the poblano chile. They measure up to 5 inches (13 cm) long and 3 inches (7.5 cm) wide. Wrinkled and deep reddish brown, ancho chiles vary in hotness from mild to moderate, and have a slightly bittersweet taste.
To handle Ancho chiles:
Wear kitchen gloves to prevent any cuts or abrasions on hands from contacting the volatile oils. Wash your hands well with warm, soapy water after handling the chiles, and do not touch your eyes or other sensitive areas.For other varieties of chile, see Anaheim, árbol, bird's-eye, cayenne, chilaca, chipotle, guajillo, habañero, jalapeño, mulato, pasilla, poblano, serrano, and yellow chiles, and dried red chiles and ground dried chile.