Hatch Chile
Every year around August, New Mexico and Hatch in particular really comes alive. The “Chile Capital of the World” really does make you feel like chile is the lifeblood of this place. All around New Mexico, you can see large barrel roasters blasting powerful jets of fire into the chilies, scorching away the peel to leave the juicy and meaty roasted chile ready to eat.
Chile in Albuquerque
As Albuquerque is the biggest city in New Mexico, of course it has some delicious green and red Hatch chile available. The original chile roaster in Albuquerque, Farmers Chile Market has been roasting since 1977, and continues to be a great place to get chile roasting near you in Albuquerque. The selection of different chile varieties, as well as other products, such as chile ristras and local produce make it a must stop when traveling through Albuquerque in August, September, or October.
New Mexican Tradition
New Mexico sure has a lot of chile traditions, including gathering together to peel chile with the family or tying ristras together. Many people really enjoy the sense of community and bonding they have with others during the chile season all throughout New Mexico. Chile is a family affair in New Mexico, and many people line up to get their fresh roasted Hatch green chile every single year. The amount of fresh red chile ristras decorating the streets from September makes a really stunning contrast with the blue of the Sandia mountains.
If you like spicy food and artlike desert landscapes, then New Mexico is a great place to visit. If you drive through Albuquerque, get off I-40 on Eubank and go north to 2010 Eubank Blvd NE. There you will find the best place for roasted green chile near you in 2022. It’s in the northeast heights, so it is also convenient to several Breaking Bad locations. They also have tons of red chile ristras you can take as a souvenir for friends and family. If they like spicy food, there are few more useful gifts you can find.
Things to do in Albuquerque
Albuquerque is also home to the Balloon Fiesta, which is the largest hot air balloon event in the world. It takes place in October, which is near the end of chile season. At that time, you will see lots of ristras and autumn roast chile all over. The enchanting smell of roasting chile will show you why New Mexico is the Land of Enchantment. Visiting a chile roaster is a great way to experience local New Mexican culture, and is why it is one of my favorite things to do in New Mexico.
