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New Mexico is a mosaic where various cultural ingredients intermingle
and complement each other, while each retains its basic identity. The
mosaic has been collecting pieces since Coronado's expedition.
Perhaps the most essential ingredient for any New Mexico recipe is the
famous chile, or chili pepper that grows in 2,000 different varieties.
The Capsicum species, encompassing a wide range of colors, sizes,
shapes and spiciness, are roasted, stewed, fried, cooked or simply
added fresh off the plant. Chile, or chili generally comes in either
a red or green sauce.
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on the variety, growth and harvest conditions,
"hotness" can vary. Your waiter will know which is
hotter. If you're the adventurous sort, ask for
"Christmas"--a sample of red and green chile/chili
served side-by-side.
Hatch,
New Mexico Chili/Chile was last updated:
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New Mexico is the leading state in pungent chile/chili production with more than 21,000 acres under cultivation in 1998.
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