15 New Mexico Pastelitos Recipe You Must Try Them!
Published on: Mar 13, 2024
New Mexico is known for its rich and diverse culinary culture, blending together Native American, Spanish, and Mexican influences. One of the most beloved dishes in this region is the New Mexico pastelitos, a sweet and flaky treat that is perfect for any occasion. This traditional recipe has been passed down for generations and is a staple in many New Mexican households. In this article, we will take a closer look at the history of pastelitos and provide you with an easy and authentic recipe to recreate this delicious dessert in your own kitchen. So put on your aprons and get ready to indulge in the flavors of New Mexico!
Main Ingredients: Baking Powder, Salt, Lard, Milk, Vegetable Oil, All
Sopapillas are a traditional New Mexican dessert that is loved by locals and visitors alike. These light and airy pastries are made from dough that is fried until golden brown and then sprinkled with cinnamon and sugar. They are often served with a side of honey for dipping, making them the perfect combination of sweet and savory. Sopapillas are a must-try for anyone visiting New Mexico, and they are also a great addition to any beer can chicken recipe.
New Mexico is known for its delicious and spicy red chile sauce. This versatile sauce can be used in a variety of dishes, from enchiladas to stews and everything in between. Made from dried red chile pods, garlic, and other spices, this sauce adds a unique depth of flavor to any dish. Use it as a marinade for your beer can chicken or drizzle it over the top for a spicy kick.
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New Mexico Carne Adovada
Main Ingredients: Pork Shoulder, Dried New Mexican Chiles, Chicken Stock
Carne adovada is a classic New Mexican dish that is perfect for any beer can chicken recipe. This tender and flavorful pork stew is made by marinating chunks of pork in a red chile sauce and slow cooking it until it is fall-apart tender. The resulting dish is rich, spicy, and perfect for pairing with a cold beer and some friends.
Biscochitos are a traditional New Mexican cookie that is often served during the holiday season. These buttery cookies are made with anise and cinnamon and are perfect for dipping in hot cocoa or coffee. They also make a great addition to any beer can chicken recipe. Use crushed biscochitos as a breading for your chicken or crumble them over the top as a flavorful garnish.
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Mango Margaritas with Chili Lime Salt {Ensenada,...
Main Ingredients: Salt, Cubed Mango, White Tequila, Simple Syrup, Orange
While not a traditional New Mexican recipe, these mango margaritas with chili lime salt are a popular drink in Ensenada, Mexico and can easily be adapted to pair with beer can chicken. The combination of sweet mango, tangy lime, and spicy chili salt is refreshing and pairs perfectly with the smoky flavors of grilled chicken.
Green chile stew is a hearty and comforting dish that is popular in New Mexico, especially during the colder months. This stew is made with chunks of pork, potatoes, and of course, green chiles. The chiles add a spicy kick that is perfectly balanced by the other ingredients. Use this stew as a side dish to your beer can chicken or mix it in with the chicken for a flavorful main course.
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Carne Adovada (New Mexico Red Chile Pork Stew)
Main Ingredients: Vegetable Oil, Pork Butt, Onions, Garlic, Fine Sea
Carne adovada is a classic New Mexican dish that is perfect for any beer can chicken recipe. This tender and flavorful pork stew is made by marinating chunks of pork in a red chile sauce and slow cooking it until it is fall-apart tender. The resulting dish is rich, spicy, and perfect for pairing with a cold beer and some friends.
Chili is a staple in New Mexico, and each region has its own unique version. New Mexico beef chili is typically made with chunks of beef, beans, and of course, New Mexico red chile. This savory and spicy dish is perfect for a chilly evening and pairs well with a cold beer and, of course, beer can chicken.
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Chile Nuevo Mexico
Main Ingredients: Red Chiles, Guajillo Chiles, Garlic Cloves, Onion
Chile nuevo mexico is similar to regular red chile sauce but with a twist. This sauce is made with dried red chile pods, but instead of using garlic, it is flavored with cumin and Mexican oregano. The resulting sauce is rich, smoky, and perfect for using as a marinade for your beer can chicken.
The Moscow Mule is a popular cocktail, but in New Mexico, they like to put a twist on it by using tequila instead of vodka. The Mexico mule is made with tequila, lime juice, ginger beer, and a splash of New Mexico green chile sauce for a spicy kick. This refreshing drink is the perfect pairing for your beer can chicken on a hot summer day.
New Mexico red chile sauce is a staple in many New Mexican households. This sauce is made with dried red chile pods, garlic, and other spices and is used in a variety of dishes, from enchiladas to stews and more. Use it as a marinade for your beer can chicken or drizzle it over the top for a spicy kick.
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New Mexico Pork and Green Chile Posole
Main Ingredients: Pork Shoulder, Spice Blend, Olive Oil, Bacon Drippings
Posole is a traditional Mexican soup that is popular in New Mexico as well. This hearty soup is made with pork, hominy, and of course, green chiles. The chiles add a spicy kick that is perfectly balanced by the other ingredients. Serve this as a side dish to your beer can chicken or mix it in with the chicken for a flavorful main course.
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Warm Mexico Salsa
Main Ingredients: Petite Diced Tomatoes, Large Garlic Cloves, White
This warm salsa is made with roasted tomatoes, garlic, and red chiles, making it the perfect accompaniment to your beer can chicken. The roasting process adds a depth of flavor that is hard to beat, and the spicy kick from the chiles will keep you coming back for more.
New Mexico chili is a blend of dried red chile pods, garlic, and other spices that are toasted and ground into a powder. This powder is then used to make a flavorful sauce that is perfect for adding to your beer can chicken marinade. It can also be added to stews, soups, and other dishes for a spicy kick.
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Northern Mexico Chimichangas
Main Ingredients: Corn Oil, Cactus Paddle, Salt, Seitan, Adobo Sauce
Chimichangas are a popular dish in Northern Mexico and have made their way into New Mexican cuisine as well. These deep-fried burritos are filled with a variety of ingredients, including shredded chicken, cheese, and beans. Serve them as a side dish to your beer can chicken or enjoy them as a main course with some fresh salsa on top.
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Sunny Mexico drink
Main Ingredients: Galliano, Silver Tequila
This refreshing drink is perfect for a hot summer day and pairs perfectly with beer can chicken. Made with tequila, grapefruit juice, and a splash of lime, this drink is tart, tangy, and perfectly balanced. Sip on it while you wait for your chicken to cook and enjoy the sunny flavors of Mexico.
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Sunny Mexico Drink
Main Ingredients: Galliano, Silver Tequila
This refreshing drink is perfect for a hot summer day and pairs perfectly with beer can chicken. Made with tequila, grapefruit juice, and a splash of lime, this drink is tart, tangy, and perfectly balanced. Sip on it while you wait for your chicken to cook and enjoy the sunny flavors of Mexico.
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Traditional New Mexico Guacamole
Main Ingredients: Avocados, Garlic, Lemon Juiced, Tomato, Ground Cumin
Guacamole is a staple in Mexican and New Mexican cuisine, and each region has its own unique twist on the classic recipe. Traditional New Mexico guacamole is made with ripe avocados, lime juice, cilantro, and, of course, green chiles. Serve this flavorful dip with your beer can chicken for a tasty and spicy combination.
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Chile New Mexico Chicken
Main Ingredients: Boneless Chicken Breast, Dried Chile, Garlic, Lime
Chile New Mexico chicken is a simple but flavorful dish that is perfect for pairing with beer can chicken. Made with chicken breasts, garlic, cumin, and, of course, New Mexico red chile, this dish is packed with spicy and delicious flavors that will make your taste buds dance.
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New Mexico Red Chile Enchilada Casserole
Main Ingredients: Corn Tortillas, Cooking Oil, Finely Chopped Onions
Enchiladas are a popular dish in New Mexico, and this casserole version is perfect for a crowd. Made with layers of corn tortillas, shredded chicken, cheese, and, of course, New Mexico red chile sauce, this casserole is easy to make and full of flavor. Serve it as a side to your beer can chicken or enjoy it as a main course with a cold beer on the side.
The History of Pastelitos
Pastelitos, also known as empanadas, are a beloved dessert in many Latin American countries. However, in New Mexico, the recipe has evolved to include local ingredients and flavors, making it a unique and cherished dish. The name "pastelito" comes from the Spanish word "pastel," which means pastry or cake. This dessert is believed to have originated in Spain and was brought to New Mexico by Spanish settlers in the 16th century. Over time, the recipe was adapted to include ingredients such as local fruits, nuts, and spices, making it a true reflection of the region's culinary heritage.
The Ingredients
To make New Mexico pastelitos, you will need some basic pantry staples and a few specialty ingredients that can be easily found in most grocery stores. The main ingredient is a flaky pie crust, which can be homemade or store-bought. Cinnamon and sugar are used as the filling, giving the pastelitos their signature sweet and spicy flavor. Other common ingredients include raisins, pecans, and honey, all of which add texture and depth to the dish. For a more traditional touch, you can also add some green chile, a staple in New Mexican cuisine, to give the pastelitos a slight kick.
The Recipe
Now that you have all the ingredients, it's time to put them together and create this delicious dessert. Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Roll out your pie crust and cut it into small circles using a cookie cutter or a glass. In a separate bowl, mix together the cinnamon, sugar, raisins, pecans, and honey until well combined. Place a small spoonful of the filling onto each circle of pie crust, leaving a small edge around the edges. Fold the crust in half to create a half-moon shape and seal the edges by pressing down with a fork. Brush the tops with some melted butter and sprinkle with some additional cinnamon and sugar. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Serving and Enjoying
Once your pastelitos are done baking, let them cool for a few minutes before serving. These sweet treats are best enjoyed warm, either on their own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. You can also drizzle some honey or honey butter over them for an extra indulgent touch. Chocolate syrup or strawberry jam also make great toppings for a fun twist on this classic dessert. No matter how you choose to enjoy them, one thing is for sure, these New Mexico pastelitos will leave a lasting impression on your taste buds.
In conclusion, New Mexico pastelitos are a delicious and unique dessert that showcases the diverse culinary influences of this region. With a flaky crust and a sweet and spicy filling, these treats are the perfect combination of flavors and textures. Whether you are a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is easy to follow and will transport you to the flavors of New Mexico with every bite. So why not give it a try and add a taste of New Mexico to your next dessert spread?
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