You know how sometimes you need a specific pepper for a recipe, but your local store just doesn’t have it? We’ve all been there. Morita peppers are one of those ingredients that can really make or break a dish with their unique flavor.
Don’t worry though, we’ve got you covered. We’ve put together a list of four tasty substitutes that you can easily find and will still give your dish that kick you’re looking for.
So, grab your shopping list, and let’s find some delicious replacements for those elusive Morita peppers!
4 Easy Substitutes for Morita Peppers
The Morita chili pepper is a type of smoked jalapeño, giving it a distinct smoky flavor with a spicy kick. However, if you can’t find them at your local grocery store, here are some tasty substitutes that will still give your dish that desired heat and depth of flavor:
1 – Chipotle Peppers in Adobo Sauce
First, let’s talk about Chipotle Peppers in Adobo Sauce. These smoky and spicy bad boys are everywhere, making them a solid swap for Morita peppers.
They bring a bold, smoky flavor with a spicy kick, thanks to the adobo sauce.
Here’s the kicker: the spice level (SHU) ranges from 2,500 to 8,000.
You can use them in a 1:1 ratio for Morita peppers in your recipes.
The adobo sauce adds depth—think about it the next time you’re whipping up a stew.
Interested in other swaps? Check out our guide to chipotle pepper substitutes for more ideas.
2 – Ancho Peppers
The Ancho pepper is another fantastic substitute for Morita peppers. Anchos offer a mild heat and a smoky-sweet flavor that’s just delightful.
We’ve found them perfect in various dishes, from stews to sauces.
Fun fact: Ancho peppers are dried poblano peppers.
With a SHU level of about 1,000-2,000, they’re milder than Moritas but still bring the necessary heat.
Use them in a 1:1 ratio to get similar results. We once used them in a beef chili, and it was a hit.
Want more substitute ideas? Check out our Ancho chile pepper substitutes guide for more.
3 – Guajillo Peppers
For a tangy alternative, Guajillo peppers work great! They have a mild heat and a sweet, fruity flavor that’s versatile.
These peppers are at about 2,500-5,000 SHU, so they have a bit of a kick too.
We love using Guajillos in sauces and soups. They add a nice smoky depth.
Use them in a 1:1 ratio for Morita peppers. We tried them in a taco recipe, and it was a game-changer.
For more awesome swaps, check out our Guajillo pepper substitutes guide. You’ll find plenty of options there.
4 – Cayenne Pepper
Last but not least, let’s talk about Cayenne Pepper. This fiery substitute is a staple in many of our dishes. With a SHU of about 30,000-50,000, it’s much spicier than Morita peppers.
We love its ability to add an intense kick to anything we cook. Use it in a 1:1 ratio for Morita peppers, but be warned—it’s hot!
This pepper works wonders in soups and stews, adding both heat and depth. If you’re looking for more ideas on how to use cayenne, check out our cayenne pepper substitutes guide.
Andrew Gray is a seasoned food writer and blogger with a wealth of experience in the restaurant and catering industries. With a passion for all things delicious, Andrew has honed his culinary expertise through his work as a personal chef and caterer.
His love for food led him to venture into food writing, where he has contributed to various online publications, sharing his knowledge and insights on the culinary world. As the proud owner of CooksCrafter.com, Andrew covers a wide range of topics, including recipes, restaurant reviews, product recommendations, and culinary tips.
Through his website, he aims to inspire and educate fellow food enthusiasts, offering a comprehensive resource for all things food-related.