A guide to saying it correctly
How to Pronounce Chipotle
The smoky, spicy pepper used in Mexican cuisine, pronounced with a distinct 'tlay' ending.
chipotle
chi-POH-tlay
/tʃɪˈpoʊtleɪ/ · chi · po · tlay
Native US English · Kokoro neural TTS · 0:01
It's also frequently mentioned in food blogs and cooking shows discussing spicy ingredients.
Where the word comes from
The word 'chipotle' comes from the Nahuatl word 'chilpoctli,' meaning 'smoked chili.' This refers to the process of drying and smoking jalapeños to create this distinct flavor.
Common ways people get it wrong
- chip-OT-el Some might pronounce the ending like 'hotel' because it looks similar, but the 'e' is a long 'a' sound like in 'play'.
- chip-OAT-lee The final syllable is pronounced 'tlay,' not 'tlee.' Think of the 'a' in 'father' followed by a 'y' sound.
Frequently asked
What does chipotle mean?
Chipotle refers to a specific type of chili pepper, usually a jalapeño, that has been smoked and dried. It's known for its smoky flavor and moderate heat.
Is chipotle a type of pepper or a dish?
Chipotle is primarily a type of pepper. However, the term is also used to describe dishes or sauces that feature these smoked peppers, like chipotle sauce or chipotle chicken.
How spicy is chipotle?
Chipotle peppers are typically jalapeños, which are considered moderately spicy. The smoking process can sometimes mellow the heat slightly, but they still offer a noticeable kick.
What's the correct chipotle pronunciation?
The correct pronunciation of chipotle is chi-POH-tlEH. The emphasis is on the second syllable.
How do English people say chipotle?
English speakers often pronounce chipotle as chip-OH-tul. This differs from the more accurate Spanish pronunciation.
Is the L in chipotle silent?
No, the L in chipotle is not silent. It is pronounced as a clear 'l' sound.
