# The Ultimate Cheesy, Crispy, Spicy Smash Green Chile Cheeseburger
For burger enthusiasts, the cheesy, crispy, spicy smash green chile cheeseburger is an essential culinary delight you won’t want to overlook. This burger delivers a burst of flavors, highlighted by melted cheese, fire-roasted Hatch green chiles, and juicy smashed patties with the perfect char. It embodies the spirit of New Mexico, a state famous for its vibrant food culture and, of course, its green chiles.
## What is a Green Chile Cheeseburger?
In New Mexico, when you order a burger, you’re often asked, “Would you like chile with that?” The “chile” refers to the fire-roasted and diced green chiles, a foundational component of the area. While these chiles are accessible all year long, the harvest period for Hatch chiles—usually from late summer to autumn—introduces a distinctive smoky aroma in markets throughout the state.
If you find yourself in New Mexico, saying “yes” to the green chile is essential. This custom is so entrenched in the local culture that declining it might surprise the server!
## What Types of Peppers are Used for Green Chile Cheeseburgers?
The main highlight is definitely the Hatch green chile. These chiles are renowned for their distinct flavor profile, which can range from sweet to smoky to spicy. If Hatch chiles are not available, alternatives like Anaheim or jalapeño can be used. Jarred green chiles also serve as a good option if you’re not located near New Mexico.
## What Are Hatch Chiles?
Hatch chiles are a particular kind of green chile pepper cultivated in New Mexico’s Hatch Valley. They are praised for their sweet and smoky taste that enhances with roasting. Hatch chiles come in red and green variations, with the red being fully matured. They offer a range of heat from mild to extremely hot, making them suitable for various culinary uses.
The Hatch chile season is a cherished period in the Southwest, attracting enthusiasts who flock to marketplaces for the fresh pick. The excitement surrounding Hatch chiles is similar to that of wine lovers during the grape harvest in Champagne, France.
## What Makes Hatch Chiles Unique?
Hatch chiles have risen to fame beyond their limited cultivation area. Just like Champagne, the designation “Hatch” is protected; chiles grown outside the Hatch Valley cannot be branded with that name. This exclusivity adds to their distinctive flavor, which is hard to duplicate in other regions.
## What Do Hatch Chiles Taste Like?
Hatch chiles have an earthy, crisp taste when fresh, with a subtle hint of onion. When roasted, they develop a deep, smoky, and slightly buttery flavor. The combination of heat and sweetness makes them an excellent addition to burgers.
## Are Hatch Chiles Spicy?
Hatch chiles can vary from mild to extra hot, accommodating different taste preferences. Whether you desire a mild zing or a strong kick, there’s a Hatch chile suited for you.
## Where to Purchase Hatch Chiles
During their prime season in August and September, fresh Hatch chiles can be found online or at local markets. Dried, jarred, or canned options are also easily obtainable in grocery stores. If you reside in Southern California, Colorado, or Texas, you might discover them readily available in your neighborhood grocery.
## How to Roast Green Chiles
Roasting green chiles is easy and can be accomplished in several ways:
1. **In the Oven**: Line a pan with foil, place chiles on it, and broil until the skin chars, approximately 10-15 minutes, turning as needed.
2. **On the Grill**: Grill over direct heat, rotating occasionally until charred.
3. **In the Air Fryer**: Air fry at the highest setting for around 15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
4. **On the Stove**: Char directly over open flame, rotating until blistered.
After roasting, wrap the peppers in foil or a clean bag to steam for about 10 minutes, which will help in peeling off the skins.
## How to Prepare a Green Chile Cheeseburger
Making your own green chile cheeseburger at home is a breeze. Start with roasting your chiles, then follow your usual cheeseburger assembly process. Just before adding the cheese, heap on the chopped roasted chiles for that iconic flavor.
### What Type of Cheese?
For a classic burger experience, American cheese is unmatched for its melting ability. If you’re after something with a little more flavor, consider using pepper jack cheese.
### Cheese Positioning: On Top or Below?
There’s a friendly discussion regarding whether the chiles should be placed above the cheese or underneath it. While some contend that the cheese should cover the chiles for a uniform bite, others prefer the visual appeal of chiles atop the cheese.