HealthNotes

The seeds and membranes in chile peppers contain most of the capsaicin, the compound that lends them their mouth-searing qualities. To reduce the chile’s heat, remove its seeds and veins. Fresh poblano chiles should be peeled before using. Traditional recipes recommend searing the peppers over a gas flame, or broiling them in the oven until the skins are blackened. Cool in a sealed plastic bag or foil and then remove the skins. These mild chiles, a staple of Mexican cuisine, are most often served stuffed or as a component of mole sauce.