Chile pepper pods are, technically, berries. When used fresh, they are most often prepared and eaten like a vegetable. Whole pods can be dried and then crushed or ground into chile powder that is used as a spice or seasoning. Chilies can be dried to prolong their shelf life. Chile peppers can also be preserved by brining, immersing the pods in oil, or by pickling.

Guajillo chiles [pronounced gwa-HEE-yo] are dried chiles used throughout Mexico as a base for rich salsas and sauces. They add a complex fruity flavor with little burn. Cooks will add other chiles such as the chile de árbol to bring up the heat in a dish.