Red Or Green?

If you dine in Albuquerque at any restaurant that serves New Mexican cuisine, be assured that you will be asked the question: "Red or Green?" What does it mean? Well, it reflects what can only be called a local obsession that has even influenced state legislation.

In 1996 the New Mexico State Legislature passed a House Joint Memorial declaring "Red or Green?" as the official state question. This refers to the question always asked whether one prefers red or green chile when ordering New Mexico cuisine. This measure was passed to signify the importance that the chile industry has on the economy of the state. In 2000 New Mexico produced 99,000 tons of chile valued at nearly 49 million dollars making it the number one cash crop in terms of sales in the state.

If you plan to reside in Albuquerque, (or any other part of New Mexico) your life will be so much more pleasant if you acquire a taste for "red or green" chiles. It is an indispensible part of the local cuisine (even McDonald's serves burgers with red or green chili). Just be sure that you select a restaurant or a cook that does justice to this indispensable accompaniment. If you do, you will find (as I did) that it becomes "love at first bite." Generally speaking, the green chilies are fresh chilies that have ben prepared into a stew or sauce. The red chilies have been dried before preparation for cooking, and generally are hotter in taste. In fact, around the end of August, when the chilies have been harvested, you can smell the green chilies being roasted at every supermarket (including Walmarts) in 30lb bags. A warm inviting scent that signals the beginning of the Fall.

Also, be sure that you call the cuisine by its proper term. "New Mexican" cuisine, not "Mexican" cuisine. To an outsider like me it seemed a bit frivolous at first. However, the New Mexicans do have a distinct history and culture that they are proud of. So please, call the local cuisine by its proper name. And, whatever you do, don't pass up the "red or green" chili!

Albuquerque inexpensive dining

Red chili used as a decoration

Dining in Albuquerque is generally casual and inexpensive. Dried chilies are also a popular decoration on many homes and businesses.