How to Peel Roasted Hatch Green Chile: A Handy Guide

Are you ready to embark on a flavorful journey with the delicious roasted Hatch green chile in 2024? These fiery peppers are a staple in Southwestern cuisine, adding a burst of smoky heat to any dish. But before you can fully enjoy their fiery goodness, you need to know how to peel them properly. In this guide, we’ll walk you through two main methods of peeling roasted Hatch green chile, ensuring you get the most out of this culinary delight.

Step 1: Safety First

Before we dive into the peeling process, it’s essential to prioritize safety. Hatch green chiles can pack quite a punch, so it’s wise to wear gloves while handling them. This will protect your hands from the capsaicin, the compound responsible for their spiciness. Also, be sure to wash your hands thoroughly after handling the chiles and avoid touching your face to prevent any unpleasant surprises.

Method 1: Hand Peeling

If you prefer a more tactile approach, this method is for you. Follow these simple steps to peel roasted Hatch green chile using just your hands:

1. Place the roasted chile on a clean cutting board or a flat surface and grab the stem area with your non dominant hand.
2. With your dominant hand, start peeling away the skin from the top of the pepper and work your way down. The skin should come off effortlessly, revealing the vibrant green flesh beneath.
3. If you encounter any stubborn bits of skin, use your fingers or a small knife to gently scrape them off.
4. Repeat the process for each roasted New Mexico green chile you want to peel.
5. Stack your chile on the side, and either bag them up for storage with the stem on or remove the stem and chop the chile at your discretion.

Voila! You now have perfectly peeled roasted green chile ready to be used in your favorite recipes. But wait, there’s another method you can try!

Method 2: Knife Scraping

If you prefer a different method, the knife scrape technique is your go-to. Here’s how you do it:

1. Place the roasted chile on a clean cutting board or a flat surface.
2. Take the back of a knife, preferably a small one, and hold it at a slight angle.
3. Gently scrape the back of the knife against the skin of the chile, starting from the top and working your way down. Apply light pressure to remove the skin without damaging the flesh.
4. Continue scraping until all the skin is removed, revealing the vibrant green chile flesh.
5. Repeat the process for each roasted chile you want to peel. Bag up what you want to save, and keep out the chile you want to use for the recipe you are making.

With the knife scrape technique, you’ll have beautifully peeled roasted Hatch green chiles in no time. Feel free to adjust the angle and pressure to find the method that works best for you.

Final Thoughts

Peeling roasted Hatch green chiles doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With the right techniques and a little practice, you’ll become a pro in no time. Whether you choose to peel by hand or use the knife scraping technique, always remember to prioritize safety by wearing gloves and washing your hands thoroughly afterward.

Now that you know how to peel roasted Hatch green chile, the culinary world is your oyster. Add these smoky, spicy peppers to salsas, stews, enchiladas, or even burgers for an unforgettable flavor experience. So, put on those gloves, grab your chiles, and let the peeling begin!

For more inspiration on what to cook with your freshly peeled chile, be sure to check out our recipes section!