Known for its bold flavors and fiery peppers, New Mexican cuisine is a true delight for the taste buds. From hearty stews to savory tamales, the Land of Enchantment has no shortage of mouth-watering dishes that will leave you craving more. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through 18 authentic New Mexico recipes that showcase the state’s signature spicy flavors.
From classic favorites like Green Chile Stew and Red Chile Enchiladas to innovative twists like Blue Corn Pancakes and Green Chile Cheeseburgers, these recipes are sure to ignite your palate. Whether you’re a native New Mexican or just looking to spice up your meals, this collection of recipes has something for everyone.
Green Chile Stew
Experience the bold flavors of New Mexico with this hearty Green Chile Stew recipe. Roasted green chiles and tender beef come together in a rich, comforting broth.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef stew meat
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups roasted green chile peppers (see note)
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a large Dutch oven, brown the beef over medium-high heat in a little oil. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add more oil if needed, then sauté the onion until softened. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add roasted green chiles, diced tomatoes, beef broth, cumin, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
5. Return the browned beef to the pot and bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let stew cook for 2-3 hours or until beef is tender.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Red Chile Enchiladas
Experience the bold flavors of New Mexico with this classic recipe for Red Chile Enchiladas. This dish is a staple of Southwestern cuisine, featuring tender chicken wrapped in tortillas and smothered in a rich, spicy red chile sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cooked and shredded
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 2 cups red chile sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro, shredded cheese, or sour cream for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Add onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Wrap tortillas in plastic wrap and microwave for 20-30 seconds to warm.
5. Assemble enchiladas by spreading a spoonful of sauce on each tortilla, then adding shredded chicken.
6. Roll up tortillas and place seam-side down in a baking dish.
7. Cover with remaining sauce and bake for 20-25 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Carne Adovada
This classic New Mexican dish is a staple of the region’s cuisine, with tender pork cooked in a rich and flavorful red chile sauce. Perfect for serving with rice, beans, or warm tortillas.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 4-6 dried red New Mexico chiles, stemmed and seeded
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown pork cubes in batches, then set aside.
2. Add more oil if needed, then sauté onion and garlic until softened. Add chiles and cook for 1-2 minutes.
3. Add browned pork, cumin, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
4. Pour in enough water to cover the pork, then bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 1/2 hours, or until pork is tender.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Sopaipillas with Honey
These traditional Latin American fried dough pastries are drizzled with a rich honey glaze, creating a sweet and indulgent treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1/2 cup warm water
– Honey (as needed)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
2. Gradually add in the warm water, stirring until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
4. Heat the vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
5. Roll out small balls of dough (about the size of a golf ball) and flatten slightly into disk shapes.
6. Fry the sopaipillas for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
7. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
8. Drizzle warm sopaipillas with honey to taste.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes (including frying time)
Posole Rojo
Posole Rojo is a classic Mexican dish that warms the heart and soul. This recipe combines tender hominy, juicy pork, and rich spices to create a comforting and filling meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried hominy, rinsed and drained
– 2 pounds pork shoulder, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 cup water
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 2 tablespoons lard or vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Rinse hominy and soak overnight. Drain and rinse before using.
2. Brown pork in a large pot over medium-high heat, then set aside.
3. Cook onions and garlic until softened, then add cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook 1 minute.
4. Add beef broth, water, tomato paste, lard or oil, and browned pork to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 2 hours.
5. Add hominy to the pot and continue to simmer for another 30 minutes or until tender.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
New Mexico Tamales
Experience the rich flavors of New Mexico with these authentic tamales, filled with tender pork and wrapped in a flavorful corn husk bundle.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups masa harina (corn flour)
– 1/2 cup lard or vegetable shortening
– 1 cup warm water
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder, cooked and shredded
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons chili flakes
– 2 cups corn husks (fresh or dried)
– Vegetable oil for steaming
Instructions:
1. Mix masa harina, lard, warm water, baking powder, and salt to form a dough.
2. Soak corn husks in water for at least 30 minutes.
3. Assemble tamales by spreading a thin layer of dough on a corn husk, adding pork mixture, and folding the tamale.
4. Steam tamales over boiling water for 1-2 hours or until dough is tender.
5. Serve with your favorite toppings, such as salsa, sour cream, and cilantro.
Cooking Time: 1-2 hours
Chile Rellenos
This classic Mexican dish consists of roasted poblano peppers stuffed with a savory mixture of cheese, meat, and spices, then battered and fried to a crispy golden brown.
Ingredients:
– 4 large poblano peppers
– 1 pound ground beef or chicken
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 egg, beaten
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Roast the poblano peppers over an open flame or under broiler until charred. Peel off skin, remove seeds, and cut a slit down one side.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef or chicken with onion and garlic until browned. Add tomato paste, paprika, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
3. Stuff each poblano pepper with the meat mixture, then top with grated cheese and chopped cilantro.
4. Dip stuffed peppers in flour, shaking off excess, then dip in beaten egg and roll in breadcrumbs.
5. Fry battered peppers in hot oil until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Blue Corn Pancakes
Start your day with a burst of flavor from these vibrant blue corn pancakes, infused with the subtle sweetness of honey and the earthy undertones of blue cornmeal. Perfect for a weekend brunch or a special treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup blue cornmeal
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons honey
– Butter or oil for greasing the pan
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, blue cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and honey until smooth.
3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Grease with butter or oil if necessary.
5. Drop 1/4 cupfuls of batter onto the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on the surface and edges start to dry.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Green Chile Chicken Soup
This recipe combines the flavors of green chile peppers, chicken, and vegetables in a deliciously spicy soup that’s perfect for a cozy evening or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 medium green chile peppers, roasted and chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned.
3. Add the green chile peppers, chicken broth, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
4. Stir in the diced tomatoes and red bell pepper.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Red Chile Pork Tamales
Experience the rich flavors of Mexico with these tender tamales filled with slow-cooked pork and infused with a deep red chile sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups masa harina
– 1/2 cup lard or vegetable shortening
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 pound pork shoulder, cooked and shredded
– 1/4 cup red chile sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 10-12 corn husks
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine masa harina, lard or shortening, and chicken broth. Mix until a dough forms.
2. Add the cooked pork, red chile sauce, and salt to the dough. Mix well.
3. Soak corn husks in water for at least 30 minutes.
4. Assemble tamales by spreading a thin layer of dough onto a corn husk, placing a tablespoon or two of filling in the center, and folding the sides over.
5. Steam tamales for 45-60 minutes, or until the dough is firm and the pork is heated through.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
New Mexico Style Breakfast Burritos
Start your day with a flavorful breakfast burrito packed with scrambled eggs, chorizo sausage, black beans, and shredded cheese, all wrapped in a warm flour tortilla.
Ingredients:
– 8-10 eggs
– 1 lb chorizo sausage, sliced
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 4 large flour tortillas
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: diced onions, sour cream, salsa
Instructions:
1. Scramble the eggs in a bowl and set aside.
2. Cook the chorizo sausage in a skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the black beans to the skillet and stir to combine.
4. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble the burritos by filling each tortilla with scrambled eggs, chorizo and bean mixture, and shredded cheese.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to melt the cheese.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Green Chile Cheeseburgers
Elevate your classic cheeseburger game with the bold flavor of green chile peppers. This recipe combines juicy beef, melted cheese, and a tangy kick from roasted green chiles.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup finely chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/4 cup roasted green chile peppers, diced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 4 hamburger buns
– 4 slices cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, cilantro, and diced green chiles. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into 4 patties and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired doneness.
4. Assemble burgers by spreading cheese on the bottom bun, followed by a patty, then the top bun.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Red Chile Beef Stew
A hearty and flavorful stew that combines tender beef with a rich red chile broth, perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups red chile sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 cup water
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 2-3 potatoes, peeled and cubed
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Brown the beef cubes, then remove from pot.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in red chile sauce, beef broth, water, cumin, salt, and pepper.
5. Return beef to pot and bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and cook for 2-3 hours or until beef is tender.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
New Mexico Pinto Beans
This traditional recipe from New Mexico combines the simplicity of pinto beans with a depth of flavor, making it a staple in many Southwestern households.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried pinto beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups water
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the soaked pinto beans, chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the water to the pot, making sure that the beans are covered by at least an inch of liquid.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 6-8 hours, or until the beans are tender.
4. Check the beans periodically to ensure they don’t overcook.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Chile Verde with Pork
This hearty stew combines tender pork with the bold flavors of roasted green chilies, onions, and garlic. Serve it over rice or with warm tortillas for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 4 roasted Anaheim peppers (see note), stemmed and seeded
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Brown the pork pieces, then remove from pot.
3. Add onions and garlic; cook until softened.
4. Add roasted peppers, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook 1 minute.
5. Stir in chicken broth and water; bring to a boil.
6. Return pork to pot, cover, and simmer for 2-3 hours or until the meat is tender.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Blue Corn Enchiladas
Savor the bold flavor of blue corn in these vibrant and delicious enchiladas, perfect for a flavorful dinner or snack. This recipe combines tender chicken, creamy cheese, and sweet blue corn to create a dish that’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and shredded
– 1 cup blue corn masa harina (blue corn flour)
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1 cup crema or sour cream
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat the blue corn masa harina over medium heat for about 5 minutes, stirring constantly.
3. Add vegetable oil, chicken, cumin, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir until well combined.
4. In a separate pan, warm tortillas over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side. This will make them more pliable.
5. Assemble enchiladas by filling tortillas with chicken mixture, then placing them seam-side down in a baking dish.
6. Top with cheese and crema. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Green Chile Cornbread
A twist on classic cornbread, this recipe adds a kick of green chile peppers for a flavorful and spicy treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup whole milk, buttermilk, or sour cream
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter
– 1-2 green chile peppers, diced (depending on desired level of heat)
– Honey or maple syrup for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, milk, egg, and melted butter.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in diced green chile peppers.
6. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
New Mexico Chile Sauce
This classic New Mexican condiment is a staple in many households, adding depth and heat to everything from tacos to scrambled eggs. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create this flavorful sauce that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups roasted Anaheim or Poblano peppers
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 2 teaspoons ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Blend roasted peppers, chicken broth, water, tomato paste, cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using) in a blender or food processor until smooth.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer in a saucepan over medium heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your kitchen with these authentic New Mexico recipes! From classic dishes like Green Chile Stew and Red Chile Enchiladas, to sweet treats like Sopaipillas with Honey and Blue Corn Pancakes, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a fan of carne adovada, posole, or tamales, this collection has got you covered. Even breakfast gets a kick-start with New Mexico Style Breakfast Burritos. And don’t forget to try the Green Chile Cheeseburgers – a unique twist on a classic favorite! These 18 recipes will transport your taste buds to the Land of Enchantment.
Leave a Reply