New Mexico’s rich cultural heritage is deeply rooted in its cuisine, where bold flavors and vibrant colors come together to create dishes that are both hearty and delicious. One of the key ingredients that defines this style of cooking is the mighty New Mexican red chile pepper. With its fiery heat and deep, smoky flavor, this pepper adds a depth of flavor to countless dishes, from classic enchiladas to innovative desserts.
In this article, we’ll explore 19 mouth-watering recipes that showcase the versatility of New Mexican red chile peppers. From comforting stews and braises to bold tacos and empanadas, these dishes are sure to tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more.
New Mexican Red Chile Enchiladas
New Mexican Red Chile Enchiladas Recipe
Experience the bold flavors of New Mexico with this authentic red chile enchilada recipe.
Ingredients:
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey, chicken, or beans for a vegetarian option)
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup red chile sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Shredded cheese (Cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
– Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. Drain excess fat.
3. Add onion and bell pepper to the skillet and cook until softened.
4. Stir in cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
5. In a separate pan, warm tortillas over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side. This will make them more pliable.
6. Assemble enchiladas by dipping tortillas in the red chile sauce and filling with meat mixture. Roll up and place seam-side down in a baking dish.
7. Pour remaining red chile sauce over the top and sprinkle with cheese.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Spicy Red Chile Pork Stew
Elevate your comfort food game with this bold and flavorful stew, perfect for a chilly evening. This recipe combines tender pork, spicy red chile, and aromatic vegetables in a rich broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chile
– 1 cup pork broth or beef broth
– 1/4 cup water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro, lime wedges
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown pork cubes, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and diced tomatoes with green chile. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
3. Add broth and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour, or until pork is tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Red Chile Braised Beef Tacos
A flavorful twist on traditional tacos, these braised beef tacos are slow-cooked in a rich red chile sauce and served with crispy tortillas, fresh cilantro, and creamy sour cream.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef brisket or chuck, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup red chile paste (or 2 dried ancho chiles, stemmed and seeded)
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
– Sour cream, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, heat oil over medium-high. Brown beef in batches, then set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium and add onion, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook until onion is translucent.
4. Add red chile paste and stir to combine. Add browned beef back into the pot and cover with lid or foil.
5. Transfer pot to preheated oven and braise for 2-3 hours, or until beef is tender and sauce has thickened.
6. Warm tortillas by wrapping in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
7. Assemble tacos by slicing braised beef into thin strips and serving with cilantro, sour cream, and your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
New Mexican Red Chile Sauce
Experience the bold flavors of New Mexico with this classic red chile sauce recipe, perfect for topping tacos, enchiladas, or using as a dip.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups dried red New Mexico chilies, stemmed and seeded
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt, to taste
– 2 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Reconstitute the dried chilies by soaking them in hot water for at least 30 minutes.
2. Drain and chop the rehydrated chilies into small pieces.
3. In a large saucepan, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the garlic, cumin, paprika, and chopped chilies to the pan. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let the sauce cook for 10-15 minutes or until it has thickened slightly.
7. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Red Chile Chicken Tamales
Elevate your tamale game with this bold and flavorful recipe, featuring tender chicken cooked in a spicy red chile sauce and wrapped in traditional corn husks.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1/4 cup red chile flakes
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 cups masa harina (corn flour)
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– Vegetable shortening or lard, for wrapping tamales
– Corn husks, for wrapping tamales
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine chicken, diced tomatoes with green chilies, red chile flakes, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer until the chicken is fully cooked.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together masa harina and chicken broth to form a dough.
3. Steam tamales according to package instructions or wrap in corn husks, using vegetable shortening or lard to seal the ends.
4. Place steamed or wrapped tamales on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Spicy Red Chile Posole
A hearty, spicy stew originating from the heart of Mexico, this posole recipe combines tender hominy with flavorful chiles and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried red kidney beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– 1-2 dried red chiles, stemmed and seeded, depending on desired level of heat
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine soaked beans, water or broth, oil, onion, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), and chiles.
2. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until hominy is tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Red Chile Smothered Burritos
Get ready for a flavor explosion with this spicy twist on traditional burritos! This recipe combines the warmth of red chile sauce, tender beef, and gooey cheese, all wrapped up in a crispy tortilla.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 cup red chile sauce
– 8-10 tortillas
– Shredded cheese (Cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
– Optional toppings: sour cream, diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, diced avocado
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Drain excess fat.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes with green chilies. Simmer for 5-7 minutes or until flavors meld together.
5. In a separate pan, warm tortillas over medium heat for 30 seconds on each side.
6. Assemble burritos by spooning beef mixture onto tortillas, followed by shredded cheese and optional toppings.
7. Place burritos seam-side down in a baking dish and pour red chile sauce over the top.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
New Mexican Red Chile Rellenos
A classic New Mexican dish, these rellenos are stuffed with roasted chile peppers and filled with love. Get ready to taste the bold flavors of this spicy delight!
Ingredients:
– 4 Anaheim or Hatch red chile peppers
– 1 pound ground beef (or substitute with beans for a vegetarian option)
– 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 corn tortillas
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Roast the chile peppers over an open flame or in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-15 minutes, until charred.
2. Peel off the skin, remove seeds and stems, and chop into small pieces.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef (or beans) with onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper until browned.
4. Stuff each tortilla with a portion of the meat mixture, then fill with roasted chile peppers.
5. Fry stuffed tortillas in hot oil until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
Cooking Time: About 30-40 minutes
Red Chile Beef Empanadas
These Red Chile Beef Empanadas combine the flavors of slow-cooked beef, roasted red chilies, and flaky pastry for a delicious twist on traditional empanadas.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup roasted red chili peppers, diced
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup vegetable shortening
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add onion, garlic, chili peppers, chili powder, and cumin. Cook until onion is translucent.
4. Roll out puff pastry to about 1/8 inch thickness.
5. Spoon beef mixture onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2 inch border around edges.
6. Fold other half over filling, pressing edges to seal.
7. Brush with egg wash and cut a few slits in top for steam to escape.
8. Fry empanadas in hot oil until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
9. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes.
Spicy Red Chile Quiche
Elevate your brunch game with this flavorful quiche that combines the heat of red chile peppers with creamy eggs and melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1-2 diced red chile peppers (depending on desired heat level)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Roll out the pie crust and place it in a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
3. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Arrange the diced red chile peppers and shredded cheese evenly over the pie crust.
5. Pour the egg mixture over the filling, making sure to cover it completely.
6. Sprinkle cilantro on top and bake for 35-40 minutes or until the eggs are set and the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Red Chile Glazed Salmon
This recipe combines the rich flavors of red chile with the delicate taste of salmon, resulting in a sweet and spicy dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup red chile glaze (see below)
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Red Chile Glaze:
– 1/4 cup red chile peppers, roasted and chopped
– 1/4 cup orange juice
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together red chile glaze ingredients until smooth.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place salmon fillets.
4. Brush the red chile glaze evenly over each fillet.
5. Drizzle honey, soy sauce, and olive oil over the glaze.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
New Mexican Red Chile Cornbread
Experience the bold flavors of New Mexico with this spicy cornbread recipe, infused with roasted red chiles and a hint of cumin.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1 large egg
– 1/4 cup melted butter
– 1-2 roasted red chiles, chopped (depending on desired level of heat)
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Whisk together flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in chopped red chiles.
6. Pour batter into a greased 8-inch square baking dish.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Red Chile Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, these sweet bell peppers are filled with a savory mixture of red chile, rice, and cheese.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chile
– 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut off the tops of the peppers, removing seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a bowl, combine cooked rice, diced tomatoes with green chile, and shredded cheese.
4. Stuff each pepper with the rice mixture, filling as full as possible.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the peppers and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Red Chile Meatballs
Spicy Red Chile Meatballs Recipe
A bold and flavorful twist on classic meatballs, these spicy red chile meatballs pack a punch with the heat of New Mexico-style red chile peppers. Perfect for game-day gatherings or casual weeknight meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1-2 teaspoons red chile flakes (depending on desired heat level)
– 1 cup beef broth
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
3. Add red chile flakes and mix until evenly distributed.
4. Use hands or spoon to shape mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter.
5. Place meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Red Chile Beef Chili
Warm up with a hearty bowl of this bold, flavorful chili that combines tender beef with the spicy kick of red chile peppers.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chopped fresh red chiles (such as Anaheim or Poblano)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: jalapeños, sour cream, and shredded cheese for toppings
Instructions:
1. Brown the beef in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red chiles; cook until the vegetables are soft, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and water (if desired). Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 30-40 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cook Time: 30-40 minutes
New Mexican Red Chile Salsa
Experience the bold flavors of New Mexico with this authentic red chile salsa, perfect for topping tacos, grilled meats, and veggies.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups roasted red New Mexico chiles, chopped (see note)
– 1/2 cup diced onion
– 1/4 cup diced fresh cilantro
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine chopped red chiles, onion, cilantro, and garlic.
2. Blend until smooth, adding lime juice and salt as needed.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This salsa is ready in just a few minutes of blending.
Note: To roast the red chiles, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place whole red chiles on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until skin is blistered. Let cool, then peel off skin and chop.
Red Chile Infused Guacamole
This recipe adds a spicy twist to traditional guacamole by infusing it with the bold flavor of red chile peppers.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/2 cup red chile peppers, seeded and chopped
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine diced avocado, red chile peppers, lime juice, red onion, garlic, salt, and black pepper.
2. Use a fork to mash the ingredients together until you reach your desired consistency.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: None (prep time: 15 minutes)
Spicy Red Chile Shrimp Tacos
Experience the bold flavors of Mexico with this spicy and succulent shrimp taco recipe. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup red chile flakes
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Sliced radishes, lime wedges, cilantro, and sour cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
3. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
5. Reduce the heat to medium and add the red chile flakes, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
6. Add the cooked shrimp back into the skillet and toss with the spice mixture.
7. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
8. Assemble the tacos by placing the spicy shrimp onto a tortilla, and garnish with radishes, lime wedges, cilantro, and sour cream (if desired).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Red Chile Chocolate Truffles
Elevate your truffle game with the bold flavors of red chile and rich chocolate. These bite-sized treats are perfect for a sophisticated dessert or as a unique gift.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon red chile flakes (adjust to desired heat level)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a double boiler or a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream and softened butter until well combined.
3. Add the red chile flakes and vanilla extract to the cream mixture; whisk until dissolved.
4. Pour the melted chocolate into the cream mixture; stir until well combined.
5. Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
6. Scoop out small portions (about 1 tablespoon each) and roll between your hands to form truffles.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: None; chilling required.
Summary
Get ready to ignite your taste buds with these 19 spicy New Mexican red chile recipes! From classic dishes like enchiladas and posole to innovative twists on tamales, tacos, and more, this collection has something for every heat-seeker. Whether you’re in the mood for bold flavors or comforting classics, these recipes will transport you to the heart of New Mexico’s vibrant culinary scene.