Name: New Mexican Apple Pie
Prep time: 1 h 30 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 4 h
Yield: 8
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 4 tablespoons of lard; 2 cups of all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting; 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon of salt; 1 teaspoon of baking powder; 6 to 7 peeled and sliced apples (such as Granny Smith, Fuji, and/or Gala), totaling about 6 cups; 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup of turbinado sugar, plus extra for sprinkling; 2 tablespoons of ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon of ground ginger; 1/2 teaspoon of freshly grated nutmeg; 1/4 cup of fresh lemon juice (extracted from about 2 lemons); 1/4 cup of canned or frozen chopped hot green chiles (thawed if frozen); 1/4 cup of pine nuts; 1 large egg; Vanilla ice cream (for serving)

New Mexican Apple Pie: A Delightful Twist on a Classic Dessert

Who doesn't love a warm, delicious apple pie? The sweet, cinnamon-infused filling and the flaky, buttery crust make it a timeless favorite. But have you ever tried a New Mexican Apple Pie? This delightful twist on a classic dessert adds a touch of spice and a burst of flavor that will leave you craving for more.

A Fusion of Flavors

Imagine taking a bite of a traditional apple pie and being greeted by the unexpected warmth of cinnamon, the subtle heat of green chilies, and the richness of melted cheese. This unique combination is what sets New Mexican Apple Pie apart from its counterparts.

The green chilies, a staple in New Mexican cuisine, add a mild, smoky flavor that beautifully complements the sweetness of the apples. And the melted cheese, typically cheddar or Monterey Jack, adds a creamy, tangy element that takes this pie to a whole new level of deliciousness.

How to Make New Mexican Apple Pie

Making a New Mexican Apple Pie is quite similar to making a traditional apple pie. You'll start by preparing the crust, rolling it out, and lining your pie dish. Then, you'll mix together your apple filling, adding a dash of cinnamon and a handful of diced green chilies. Fill the pie crust with the apple mixture, sprinkle it with grated cheese, and cover it with a second layer of crust. Bake until golden brown and enjoy the mouthwatering aroma that fills your kitchen.

Where to Find New Mexican Apple Pie

If you're not much of a baker or simply want to experience the magic of New Mexican Apple Pie without the hassle of making it yourself, fear not! Many bakeries and restaurants in New Mexico offer this delectable dessert. So, the next time you're visiting the Land of Enchantment, be sure to treat yourself to a slice of this heavenly creation.

In Conclusion

New Mexican Apple Pie is a delightful twist on a classic dessert. The fusion of flavors, the warmth of the spices, and the creamy tang of melted cheese create a pie that is truly irresistible. Whether you try making it yourself or indulge in a slice at a local bakery, this unique dessert is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and leave you craving for more.

Frequently asked questions

. Can I use any type of apple for New Mexican Apple Pie?: Absolutely! You can use any variety of apple that you prefer or have on hand. However, some apples, like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, work particularly well in pies because they hold their shape and have a nice balance of tartness and sweetness.
. Is New Mexican Apple Pie spicy?: New Mexican Apple Pie is not spicy in the traditional sense. The green chilies add a mild heat that enhances the overall flavor profile of the pie without overpowering it. If you're sensitive to spice, you can adjust the amount of chilies to suit your taste.
. Can I omit the cheese in New Mexican Apple Pie?: While the melted cheese adds a delightful creaminess to the pie, you can certainly omit it if you prefer. The pie will still be delicious, with the flavors of the apples and green chilies taking center stage.
. Can I freeze New Mexican Apple Pie?: Absolutely! New Mexican Apple Pie freezes well. Simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container before popping it in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and warm it up in the oven for a few minutes.
. Can I serve New Mexican Apple Pie with ice cream?: Of course! Serving New Mexican Apple Pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream is a match made in dessert heaven. The cold creaminess of the ice cream complements the warm, spiced flavors of the pie, creating a delightful contrast that will have your taste buds singing.
. Can I add other spices to New Mexican Apple Pie?: Definitely! While cinnamon is the traditional spice used in apple pie, you can certainly experiment with other spices to add your own twist. Nutmeg, cloves, or even a hint of cardamom can take the flavor of your New Mexican Apple Pie to new heights.
. Is New Mexican Apple Pie only popular in New Mexico?: New Mexican Apple Pie has its roots in the flavors of New Mexico, but its deliciousness knows no boundaries. People from all over the world have fallen in love with this unique take on apple pie. So, whether you're in New Mexico or not, you can still enjoy a slice of this delightful dessert.
. Can I make a vegan version of New Mexican Apple Pie?: Absolutely! There are plenty of vegan crust and cheese alternatives available that you can use to make a delicious vegan New Mexican Apple Pie. Simply substitute the dairy-based ingredients with vegan alternatives, and you're good to go.