For many, fall means pumpkin spice and all things spooky, but for me and many New Mexicans, fall signifies the start of green chile season when the air is filled with the smoky aroma of spicy delicious goodness roasting outside.
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During autumn and the rest of the “ber” months (September, October, November, and December), it’s not uncommon to see the ubiquitous barrel roasters outside of the grocery store tossing the chile in a circular motion, ensuring an even char.
In New Mexico, green chile is more than a condiment, it’s woven into our culture and cuisine. Not only is our state question “Red or Green?,” a nod to whether one prefers red or green chile, the entire state is also known as the Chile Capital of the World.
If you are on the hunt for freshly roasted green chile, you’re in the right place! Here are some spots in the Albuquerque area to try:
Rosales Produce
7331 4th St NW, Los Ranchos De Albuquerque, NM 87107
Big Jim Farms
1685 Montaño Rd NW, Albuquerque, NM 87107
Nelson’s Meat
929 Old Coors Dr SW, Albuquerque, NM 87121
Wagner Farms
5000 Corrales Rd, Corrales, NM 87048
The Fruit Basket
6343 4th St NW, Albuquerque, NM 87107
Chile Konnection
1136 Broadway Blvd NE, Albuquerque, NM 87102
Sichler Farms
820 San Mateo Blvd NE, Albuquerque, NM 87108
Don’t forget to keep an eye out for roadside stands or visit your neighborhood grocery stores, such as Smiths, Albertsons, Sprouts Farmers Market, Whole Foods, and Walmart.
Make it a peeling party
Make sure you stock up once you’ve secured the goods! I have fond memories of being in the kitchen with my family peeling roasted green chile and packing it in freezer bags for year-round enjoyment.
Are we missing one of your favorite green chile spots? Let us know in the comments.
The opinions expressed in this post are those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of ABQ Mom, its executive team, other contributors to the site, its sponsors or partners, or any organizations the aforementioned might be affiliated with.
