Hatch chili peppers are a beloved seasonal treat, famous for their smoky, earthy flavor and varying heat levels. Whether you’re a chili enthusiast or just curious about how to prepare these flavorful peppers, roasting is the best way to unlock their full potential. Here’s a friendly, easy-to-follow guide on how to cook Hatch chili peppers, plus tips on peeling, storing, and using them in your favorite dishes.
What Are Hatch Chili Peppers?
Hatch chiles come from the Hatch Valley in New Mexico and are celebrated for their unique flavor profile that ranges from mild to spicy. They have an earthy, slightly oniony taste with smoky undertones, making them perfect for roasting. Hatch chiles are highly seasonal, usually available in late summer, and roasting them at home lets you enjoy their flavor all year long by freezing the roasted peppers.
How to Roast Hatch Chili Peppers
Roasting Hatch chiles brings out their smoky flavor and softens their skin, making them easier to peel and use in recipes. You can roast them in the oven, on the grill, or even on a gas stove. Here’s how to do it:
Oven Roasting Method
- Preheat your oven or broiler: Set your oven to 425°F to 500°F or use the broiler setting on high.
- Prepare the peppers: Wash and dry about 8 to 12 Hatch chiles. Lightly coat them with oil (olive or avocado oil works well) and sprinkle with salt if you like.
- Arrange on a baking sheet: Line a rimmed baking tray with foil and place the chiles in a single layer without overcrowding.
- Roast: Place the tray in the upper third of the oven. Roast for about 10 minutes, turning the peppers halfway through, until the skins are blistered and blackened.
- Steam: Remove the peppers and immediately place them in a covered container, plastic bag, or wrap with foil to steam for 20 to 30 minutes. This loosens the skin, making peeling easier.
- Peel and seed: Once cool enough to handle, peel off the charred skin, remove the stems, and scrape out the seeds. You can leave some seeds if you want more heat.
Grilling Method
- Preheat the grill: Heat your grill to medium-high or about 450°F.
- Place the peppers on the grill: Put the washed and dried chiles directly on the grill grates.
- Char the peppers: Grill for 4 to 6 minutes per side until the skin is blistered and blackened.
- Steam and peel: Transfer the peppers to a covered bowl or plastic bag to steam for 20 minutes, then peel and seed as above.
Gas Stove Method
- Turn on the burner: Set to medium-high.
- Roast the peppers: Place the chiles directly on the burner using tongs, turning every few minutes until all sides are blistered and blackened.
- Steam and peel: Cover and steam the peppers as before, then peel and seed.
Tips for Perfect Roasted Hatch Chiles
– Don’t oil the peppers if you’re roasting them over an open flame or gas stove-the skin chars better without oil.
– Use gloves when handling hot peppers to avoid skin irritation.
– Steam the peppers immediately after roasting to make peeling easier.
– Store peeled peppers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to a week or freeze them for longer storage.
– If Hatch chiles aren’t available, Anaheim peppers can be a substitute, though the flavor will differ slightly.
What to Do with Roasted Hatch Chili Peppers
Once roasted and peeled, Hatch chiles are incredibly versatile:
– Add to salsas and sauces for a smoky kick.
– Stuff with cheese or meat for a flavorful appetizer.
– Mix into soups, stews, or chili to deepen flavor.
– Dice and add to eggs, tacos, or burritos for a spicy twist.
– Blend into dips or spreads for parties and snacks.
How to Store Roasted Hatch Chili Peppers
To enjoy Hatch chiles beyond their short season:
– Refrigerate: Store peeled chiles in an airtight container for up to one week.
– Freeze: Portion roasted chiles into freezer bags or containers. They keep well frozen for months and can be used straight from the freezer in cooked dishes.
Roasting Hatch chiles at home is simple and rewarding. With just a few steps, you can capture the essence of this New Mexican favorite and bring a smoky, spicy flavor to your kitchen anytime.
Enjoy your Hatch chiles roasted to perfection!