Yes the chiles are fresh not dried. I broil the chiles and tomatillos under the broiler. I don't rub off the charred part as I like the flavour, however when Dr. Dirt makes it he takes off the "burnt" skin. It is a mater of taste. However on Anchos when I fire roast them over an open flame I remove the blackened skin as it is tough. Mary-Anne __________________________________________________ Do you Yahoo!? Yahoo! Mail Plus - Powerful. Affordable. Sign up now. http://mailplus.yahoo.com