The Key Ingredient That Makes New Mexican Food Taste So Good

Photo credit: Simply Recipes

There are many great chiles to choose from, but if you're looking for one with a fiery kick and a hit of bright citrusy acidity, the Hatch green chile is the pod for you. They're a favorite in New Mexico, where people cook them into salsa, soup, salad, side dishes, main dishes and even pies. Yes, that's right, pies.

Most grocery stores will sell the canned variety of this chile -- with the option for mild, medium and hot -- but for a true New Mexican experience you'll want to order the real deal. Thank goodness for the wide reaches of the internet and New Mexican Connection, who will mail order you your very own treasure trove of roasted, frozen green chile to store in your freezer. Stock up and use them to make these wonderfully spicy recipes below.