Along with ancho and guajillo chiles, the pasilla chile is one of the most popular types in Mexican cooking. These three chile types are often used together in dishes. Pasilla chile powder adds a rich smoky taste to dishes. With its earthiness and raisin-like taste and aroma, it is more complex and layered in its flavor than chipotle chiles which are also used to add smokiness and spice. Pasilla is very mild in heat, but will impart a slight spiciness. Pasilla chiles ground into powder will have the same deep red-brown (almost raisin-like) hue of the whole dried chile. The spices' flavor is savory and layered. Add ground pasilla pepper to chilis or bean dishes. Use it in rubs for chicken or pork.