September 28, 2026
Hatch, New Mexico is just a small town with a population of 1,500 residents. Yet somehow the green and red chilis grown and harvested in the Hatch Valley of southern New Mexico are known far and wide — there is almost an obsession with these Hatch Chilis. So, let’s talk about the chilis.
They are harvested annually, with a bulk of the green chilis harvested in July/August, when they have not yet ripened and the red chilis harvested in September/October when the chili has ripened. So, what I am saying is that a red chili and green chili comes from the same plant. It just depends on whether the farmer harvests earlier or later. The unripened green chili is what you probably see more of because that is what you most often see on burgers, soups, Mexican sauces, etc. The red chili is more “earthy” tasting and is used in moles a lot if you ever eat Chili Colorado type dish.
I do wish there were more “Hatch Chili” events in Kansas during this time period, but I’m glad there are places like Whiskey Dicks in Wichita (801 S. Seneca St.) stepping up. Not only do they have a menu available all of September with Hatch chilis included, but they are also having a “Hatch Roasting Party” on Thursday, October 8th from 5-8pm. They had one earlier in September and my buddy Fert The Foodie attended it.
By the way, I ordered the Hatch Chili Burger, which came with a 1/3lb patty with Cheddar cheese, Hatch Chiles, Lettuce, Tomato, Red Onions and Burger Sauce along with a bowl of Green Chili (NOT Hatch Green Chili). I really enjoyed the burger and the slight smoke flavor from the Hatch chilis. And I loved dipping the fries into the Green Chili. If you’re interested in all the Hatch Chili offerings, all you gotta do is look at the photos, which includes the “Hatch” menu.
— TKG
