17 New Mexico Stylespicy Frito Pie Recipe Experience Culinary Bliss Now!

Published on: May 11, 2024

New Mexico is known for its bold and flavorful cuisine, with a mix of Spanish, Native American, and Mexican influences. One dish that stands out in this region is the spicy Frito pie. This dish is a popular street food and can also be found in many restaurants and home kitchens across the state. The combination of crunchy Fritos, spicy chili, and melted cheese creates a unique and delicious flavor experience. If you're looking to spice up your mealtime routine, then this New Mexico-style spicy Frito pie recipe is a must-try. Let's dive into the details and learn how to make this mouth-watering dish.

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The Origin of Frito Pie

Frito pie has been a staple in New Mexico's cuisine since the 1960s. It is believed to have originated from the small town of Santa Fe, where housewives would serve it as a quick and easy meal for their families. The dish became popular and spread throughout the state, eventually making its way to other parts of the country. Today, it is a beloved dish that represents the culture and flavors of New Mexico.

The Key Ingredient: Fritos

Fritos are the star of this dish and give it its signature crunch. These corn chips were invented in 1932, and their popularity skyrocketed with the creation of Frito pie. The corn chips are placed in a bowl or on a plate and topped with chili and cheese, making for a simple, yet satisfying meal.

The Spicy Twist

What sets New Mexico-style Frito pie apart from other variations is the addition of spicy chili. New Mexico is known for its chili peppers, and they are used in many of their dishes. In this recipe, green chili is used to add a kick of heat and flavor to the dish. The chili is simmered with ground beef, onions, garlic, and spices, creating a hearty and fiery chili that complements the Fritos perfectly.

The Finishing Touch: Cheese

To complete the Frito pie, a generous amount of shredded cheese is sprinkled on top. The most commonly used cheese in this dish is cheddar, but you can use any type of cheese you prefer. The cheese melts over the hot chili, creating a gooey and creamy layer that brings all the flavors together.

How to Make New Mexico-Style Spicy Frito Pie

Now that you know the history and key ingredients of Frito pie, it's time to learn how to make it. Here's a simple recipe for you to try at home: Ingredients:

1 bag of Fritos
1 lb ground beef
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1 can of green chili
1 can of kidney beans
1 can of diced tomatoes
1 tsp chili powder
1 tsp cumin
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions:

In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add in the onions and garlic and cook until softened.
Stir in the green chili, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, chili powder, and cumin. Let it simmer for 10 minutes.
Preheat your oven to 375°F.
In a baking dish, spread a layer of Fritos on the bottom. Pour the chili mixture over the Fritos, then top with another layer of Fritos.
Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top of the Fritos.
Bake in the oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve hot and enjoy your New Mexico-style spicy Frito pie!

In conclusion, Frito pie is a beloved dish in New Mexico, and for a good reason. Its simple yet flavorful combination of Fritos, spicy chili, and melted cheese make for a delicious and satisfying meal. With this recipe, you can bring a taste of New Mexico into your own kitchen. So why not give it a try and add some spice to your mealtime routine?