What do you do with Hatch green chilis?

Hatch green chilis are incredibly versatile. You can roast and blend them into sauces, like the one featured above, or dice them for stews, enchiladas, eggs, burgers, mac and cheese, or salsas. They're perfect for adding depth to savory dishes. Many people also freeze roasted Hatch green chiles to use throughout the year.

What is the difference between green chili and Hatch green chili?

“Green chili” is a general term for any unripe chili pepper, while Hatch green chili refers specifically to a chili grown in New Mexico’s Hatch Valley. These chiles have a signature smoky, slightly sweet flavor and range in heat. Their unique taste and heritage make them a regional delicacy, unlike standard green chiles.

What are Hatch chillies used for?

Hatch chiles are used in everything from sauces, soups, and burritos to burgers, tacos, and even queso dips. They can be chopped, pureed, or left whole. Whether it’s breakfast or dinner, their flavor enhances almost anything, which is why they’re key in dishes like Hatch green chili sauce .

What are the ingredients for green chili sauce?

Typical ingredients for green chili sauce include roasted Hatch chiles, onion, garlic, broth (chicken or vegetable), cumin, and a touch of flour or cornstarch for thickening. Lime juice or cilantro is sometimes added for brightness. The ingredients may vary slightly based on spice preference and dish pairing.

Is Hatch green chili healthy?

Yes, Hatch green chili is a healthy ingredient. It's low in calories and rich in vitamins A and C. The capsaicin in chiles also offers anti-inflammatory benefits and may help boost metabolism. Just go easy on the salt or oil when preparing sauces to keep it nutritious.

What is another name for Hatch green chiles?

There isn't an exact alternative name, but some refer to them by their heat level or variety, like “Big Jim” or “Sandia.” However, Hatch green chili always refers to chiles grown in Hatch Valley, and that geographical name matters—just like Champagne refers to a specific region.

Are Hatch green chilies very hot?

Hatch green chilies range from mild to very hot depending on the variety. Mild versions have a gentle warmth, while others like “Lumbre” or “Sandia hot” bring real heat. If you're unsure, start with a medium roast and adjust. Roasting tones down the sharpness while intensifying flavor.

Hatch Green Chili Sauce Recipe: Flavor-Packed Southwest Classic

Name: Hatch Green Chili Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 2 cups
Cuisine: Southwestern
Ingredients: 1 lb roasted Hatch green chiles (mild to hot); 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 small yellow onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp flour; 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth; 1 tsp ground cumin; Salt to taste; Optional: ½ tsp lime juice

Description

A smoky, tangy Hatch green chili sauce perfect for enchiladas, tacos, eggs, and more. Freezes beautifully and brings bold New Mexico flavor to any dish.

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb roasted Hatch green chiles (mild to hot)

1 tbsp olive oil

1 small yellow onion, chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 tbsp flour

2 cups chicken or vegetable broth

1 tsp ground cumin

Salt to taste

Optional: ½ tsp lime juice

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat.

2. Add chopped onion and cook until soft.

3. Stir in garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.

4. Sprinkle in flour, stir for 1 minute to form a roux.

5. Whisk in broth gradually.

6. Add roasted Hatch chiles and cumin.

7. Simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes.

8. Season with salt and add lime juice if desired.

9. Blend for smooth texture or keep it chunky.

10. Serve warm or cool for storage.

Notes

Freeze in small portions for quick use.

Use as a sauce for burritos, enchiladas, eggs, or mac and cheese.

Adjust heat level by variety of Hatch chiles.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Sauce
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Southwestern

Nutrition

Serving Size: 2 tbsp
Calories: 45
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 150mg
Fat: 3g
Saturated Fat: 0.5g
Unsaturated Fat: 2g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 3g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg