Now that we have established some basis for why the residents of Southern California should meander over to The Land of Enchantment, the sights, the warm people, the beautiful sunsets, let’s discuss one of the spicier details that might heat up your travel plans. Chile!
In New Mexico chile is serious business, which explains why New Mexico is home to both The Chile Pepper Institute, and the “Chile Capitol of the World”, a small town in the southern part of the state called Hatch. Should you find yourself in southern New Mexico feel free to pay a visit to both; the institute is located in Las Cruces, NM and a quick 45 minute drive from there will get you to Hatch.
Chile is not just a side dish or condiment in New Mexico; it is an integral part of everyday life and New Mexican culture. Even McDonalds recognizes the importance of chile, so feel free to ask for green chile on your hamburger.
Rather than asking “whether or not someone likes chile?” you should be asking “red or green?” The response will vary from person to person on whether or not they enjoy the red or green variety of chile, but you can almost guarantee they will spout off about their favorite and the dish they love it to adorn.
Spicy up a meal with these traditional New Mexico Chile Dishes
Chile Rellenos: fried whole green chiles stuffed with warm gooey cheesy bliss
Enchiladas: corn tortillas, meat, cheese, and chile in a casserole like dish. Try beef with red chile or chicken with green chile.
Stuffed Sopapilla smothered with red chile: a New Mexican pastry stuffed with pinto beans and covered in red chile.
Posolé with red chile: boiled hominy with red chile.
Some Fiery Facts from The Chile Pepper Institute
One fresh medium sized green chile pod has as much Vitamin C as six oranges.
Chile peppers originated in South America and then spread to Central and North America.
The color extracted from very red chile pepper pods, oleoresin, is used in everything from lipstick to processed meats.
The Capsaicinoids (the chemical that make chile peppers hot) is used in muscle patches for sore and aching muscles.
While visiting New Mexico you may begin to feel the burn, the burning desire to try some delicious and unique fare. While doing this your tongue may feel as though it is on fire. Should this occur do like the locals do……..Drink a glass of milk.
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