Fresh Hatch Green Chile

Hatch vs. Anaheim Chile: What's the Difference?

Hatch Chile and Anaheim Chile are both varieties of green chile that are often used in cooking, especially in Southwestern and Mexican cuisines. Here are some differences between the two:

  1. Origin: Hatch Chile is specifically grown in the Hatch Valley of New Mexico, and is named after this region. They are known for their unique flavor, which is said to be influenced by the local soil and climate conditions. Anaheim Chile, on the other hand, originated in New Mexico, but the seeds were transported to California in the early 20th century and grown in the city of Anaheim, hence the name.
  2. Heat Level: On the Scoville Heat Unit scale, which measures the spiciness of chile peppers, Anaheim Chile typically ranges from 500 to 2,500 units, while Hatch Chile can range from 1,000 to 8,000 units. This means that Hatch Chile can potentially be hotter than Anaheim.
  3. Flavor: Both chiles have a slightly sweet flavor, but Hatch Chile is often described as having a more robust, earthy, and complex flavor compared to Anaheim - which are slightly milder and more straightforward in flavor.
  4. Availability and Use: Hatch Chiles are typically harvested once a year in late summer and are celebrated with annual festivals in New Mexico. They are often roasted and used in a variety of dishes. Anaheim chiles, being less region-specific, are available year-round.

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