Hatch Chile Express Hatch
The heart of New Mexico's chile culture, offering authentic roasted Hatch chiles and a taste of tradition.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peak chile season!
Hatch Chile Express Hatch
Best Time
Peak chile season!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
The heart of New Mexico's chile culture, offering authentic roasted Hatch chiles and a taste of tradition.
"If you are not buying all your Hatch chile from Hatch Chile Express, I feel sorry for you."
🎯 Get Your Chiles Roasted!
Ask for your chiles to be roasted on-site for the best flavor. It's a must-do experience!
📦 Consider Shipping Options
If you can't visit, they ship! Frozen diced chiles arrive well-packaged.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Freshly Roasted Hatch Chiles
Hatch Chile Express Roasting Station
Experience the smoky aroma and vibrant flavor of chiles roasted on-site. A quintessential New Mexico experience!
Chile Ristras
Hatch Chile Express
Beautiful, decorative strings of dried red chiles. Functional art that can be used for cooking once dried!
Salsa & Powdered Chile
Hatch Chile Express Store
Take home the authentic taste of Hatch with their homemade salsas and various chile powders.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Chile Season
Shipping Options & Quality
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Get Your Chiles Roasted!
Ask for your chiles to be roasted on-site for the best flavor. It's a must-do experience!
📦 Consider Shipping Options
If you can't visit, they ship! Frozen diced chiles arrive well-packaged.
🌶️ Know Your Heat Level
Be specific about your desired heat level, as some customers have reported discrepancies.
💰 Affordable Prices
Many visitors praise the affordable prices for high-quality chiles.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Get Your Chiles Roasted!
Ask for your chiles to be roasted on-site for the best flavor. It's a must-do experience!
📦 Consider Shipping Options
If you can't visit, they ship! Frozen diced chiles arrive well-packaged.
🌶️ Know Your Heat Level
Be specific about your desired heat level, as some customers have reported discrepancies.
💰 Affordable Prices
Many visitors praise the affordable prices for high-quality chiles.
👨👩👧👦 Family Business Vibe
Enjoy the friendly, family-run atmosphere and excellent service.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Hatch Chile Express is celebrated for its high-quality, authentic Hatch chiles and friendly, family-run service. Customers rave about the fresh roasted chiles and the convenience of shipping. However, some have noted inconsistencies with the advertised heat levels in powdered products.
"Rhonda is a wonderful person to work with by buying sacks of green chili. Her Mother Jo Lyle is the owner of Hatch Chili Express. All employees are professional & very helpful. Have been purchasing both green & red chili for several years. Prices are very affordable also. Great place!"
Jenny Griffith
"I was guaranteed there extra hot red chili was the real deal.
I bought 5 pounds of red chili powder that says extra hot, it's barely between a mild to medium.
False advertisement along with a guarantee. I can't even give it away....
anyone to take it for free. A total loss of $94.00
I can't even give it away.
Seriously sad...."
Rose Laughlin
"My family has been going since 1999 and they have the best chile in town. Roasted and cooled is the best method to go with. Fast, friendly and courteous service. Love the family!"
Virginia Hernandez
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Hatch Chile Express is located in Hatch, New Mexico. The town is accessible by car, typically via US-285. It's a scenic drive through the New Mexico landscape. Many visitors make it a destination during chile season.
Absolutely, especially during chile season! Hatch is known as the 'Chile Capital of the World' and offers a unique cultural and culinary experience centered around its famous chiles.
While the peak season for fresh roasted chiles is late summer, Hatch Chile Express often sells dried chiles, powders, and other products year-round. It's best to call ahead to confirm availability outside of the main season.
Driving is the most common and recommended way to reach Hatch, allowing you to explore the surrounding areas. The nearest major airports are in Albuquerque (ABQ) and El Paso (ELP), both several hours away.
Nearby attractions include White Sands National Park and the Gila National Forest, offering opportunities for hiking and exploring the unique desert landscapes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Hatch Chile Express is a retail location and does not require tickets for entry. You can walk in and purchase chiles and other products.
Operating hours can vary, especially during peak chile season. It's highly recommended to check their official website or call them directly for the most up-to-date hours, particularly if you are planning a visit during late summer.
There is no admission fee for the chile roasting itself. You pay for the chiles you purchase, and the roasting service is typically included or a small additional fee.
Yes, pre-ordering is often recommended, especially for larger quantities or during peak season, to ensure you get the chiles you want. Some events, like those at Ralphs and Food4Less, specifically encourage pre-ordering.
Typically, they accept major credit cards, debit cards, and cash. It's always a good idea to have some cash on hand, especially if you're visiting a smaller vendor or during a busy event.
🎫 🌶️ Chile Varieties & Flavors
They are famous for their New Mexico green chiles, but also offer red chiles, chile powders, and sometimes specialty varieties. You can find both mild and extra-hot options.
Communicate with the staff at Hatch Chile Express! They can guide you based on your preference. Be aware that 'extra hot' can vary, so clarify if you're sensitive to spice.
Green Hatch chiles are harvested earlier and have a brighter, fresher flavor. Red Hatch chiles are mature green chiles that have ripened, offering a sweeter, deeper flavor profile.
Yes, Hatch Chile Express offers chile powders. However, be mindful of reviews regarding the advertised heat level of powdered products.
Chile Rellenos are a popular dish made with roasted Hatch chiles stuffed with cheese, coated in batter, and fried. Hatch Chile Express provides the essential ingredient!
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Recipes
Hatch chiles are incredibly versatile! Popular dishes include green chile stew, enchiladas, salsa verde, queso fundido tacos, mac and cheese, and even burgers. +6
Many recipes are shared online, including on TikTok and Instagram. Look for creators specializing in New Mexican cuisine or search for specific dishes like 'Hatch Chile Stew recipe'. +2
While their primary focus is selling raw and roasted chiles, they may offer some prepared items like salsas or chile-infused products. It's best to inquire directly. +1
Roasted chiles can be chopped and added to sauces, stews, soups, eggs, or used as a filling for enchiladas and rellenos. Their smoky flavor enhances many dishes. +2
A hearty, traditional New Mexican dish often made with pork or beef, potatoes, and plenty of roasted Hatch green chiles. It's a comforting and flavorful meal.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the vibrant colors of chile ristras, the steam rising from freshly roasted chiles, and the bustling atmosphere during peak season. The drying chiles on roofs are also unique shots. 
Morning light can be beautiful for capturing the textures and colors of the chiles. Late afternoon can offer a warm, golden glow. Consider the roasting process for dynamic shots.
The roasting area itself is a focal point. Also, look for displays of ristras and dried chiles, as well as the unique sight of chiles drying on rooftops.
Any modern smartphone or camera will capture the vibrant colors well. Focus on composition and capturing the unique atmosphere of chile season.
Always ask for permission before taking close-up photos of individuals. Respect their privacy.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
If you're traveling with children, plan your visit during the day when the roasting is most active. While the chiles themselves might be too spicy for very young children, the experience of seeing them roasted and learning about New Mexican culture can be a memorable part of your trip. Bringing home some mild chile products can also be a fun way to continue the culinary adventure at home.
🌶️ Chile Enthusiasts & Foodies
Consider purchasing larger quantities during the peak season to stock up for the year. Many enthusiasts swear by the quality and flavor that can only be found directly from the source. If you're looking to experiment, try incorporating Hatch chiles into your favorite recipes, from classic New Mexican dishes to innovative culinary creations.
🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers
If you're on a day trip, focus on the roasting experience and purchasing chiles to take home. The drive into Hatch itself is scenic, offering a glimpse into the agricultural landscape of New Mexico. Combine your visit with a stop at nearby attractions like White Sands National Park for a well-rounded experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of Hatch Chile Season
During peak season, you'll see chiles drying everywhere – on rooftops, strung up in ristras, and piled high in markets. This visual spectacle is as much a part of the experience as the flavor itself. The Hatch Chile Express is at the heart of this phenomenon, providing the fresh chiles and the roasting services that make the season so special. It's a time when the community comes together to celebrate the bounty of their land and share its unique flavors.
If you're planning a visit, timing is crucial. Aim for the heart of the season to experience the full vibrancy. Be prepared for crowds, as this is a popular time for both locals and tourists. The energy in Hatch during this period is palpable, making it an unforgettable culinary adventure.
Understanding Chile Varieties and Heat
The heat level of Hatch chiles can vary significantly, even within the same harvest. They are generally considered milder than some other chile varieties, but 'extra hot' versions can pack a punch. It's important to communicate your heat preference clearly when purchasing. Some reviews suggest that advertised heat levels, particularly for powdered products, may not always match expectations, so it's wise to clarify with the vendor.
Beyond fresh chiles, Hatch Chile Express also offers chile powders and salsas. These products allow you to bring the authentic Hatch flavor home. When buying powders, consider that the flavor intensity can differ from fresh chiles. For salsas, the freshness and quality of the chiles used are paramount to their deliciousness.
Shipping and Taking Hatch Chiles Home
However, it's worth noting that while fresh and frozen chiles generally arrive in good condition, there have been some mixed reviews regarding the consistency of heat levels in powdered products. If you're ordering powdered chiles, especially for a specific recipe or heat requirement, it might be prudent to confirm details or consider ordering fresh chiles if possible.
Shipping costs can be a factor, as overnight shipping is often necessary to maintain the frozen state of the chiles. Despite this, many customers find it a worthwhile investment compared to the cost and time of traveling to New Mexico. This service ensures that the unique flavors of Hatch chiles are accessible to a wider audience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit