Guajillo
3,500 SHU · Capsicum annuum
MediumHeat range
2,500 to 5,000 SHU. Typical: 3,500 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
Guajillo has flavors of tangy, slightly sweet, berry-like, mildly smoky.
The guajillo is the dried form of the mirasol pepper and one of the most commonly used dried chiles in Mexican cooking. It has a smooth, dark reddish-brown skin and a sweet, tangy flavor with hints of berry and mild smokiness. The heat is gentle, making it a foundation chile rather than a showstopper. Guajillos are essential in enchilada sauces, many moles, and marinades for birria. They rehydrate well and blend into smooth, richly colored sauces. Combined with ancho and pasilla chiles, guajillos form the classic dried chile trio that underpins much of traditional Mexican cuisine.
How it’s used
Guajillo is commonly used in enchilada sauce, moles, adobo, tamale fillings, rehydrating for salsas.
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 Guajillo compared to a jalapeño?
Guajillo and jalapeños are in a similar heat range. Guajillo at 3,500 SHU is roughly comparable to a jalapeño at 5,000 SHU.
What does Guajillo taste like?
Guajillo has flavors of tangy, slightly sweet, berry-like, mildly smoky. Beyond the heat, these flavor notes distinguish it from other peppers at similar Scoville ratings.
Can I grow Guajillo at home?
Yes. Guajillo 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 Guajillo hotter than Jalapeño?
No. Jalapeño at 5,000 SHU typical is hotter than Guajillo at 3,500 SHU. Compare them side by side on the comparison tool.
What's a good substitute for Guajillo?
The closest substitutes are Poblano and Chipotle. These share similar heat ranges and compatible flavor profiles. For exact quantity ratios, use the substitution calculator.
What is Guajillo's Scoville rating?
Guajillo ranges from 2,500 to 5,000 SHU, with a typical measurement of 3,500 SHU. This range reflects natural variation in capsaicin production due to growing conditions, ripeness, and genetics.