During my recent trip back to New Mexico I ate rice, beans, and cheese almost every day, and no matter what dish I ordered, there was green or red chile on top. Just about every traditional food at a New Mexican restaurant is served smothered in chile. Immediately after placing your order, your waitress will most likely ask, "red or green chile?" Indecisive diners can order theirs "Christmas-style" but I've always gone one way or the other. Check out this roundup of some of our favorites, after the jump.... More

Over my holiday in Santa Fe, I met up with cookbook author and long-time Tesuque resident Cheryl Jamison who, along with her husband Bill, leads culinary tours in France and has written James Beard award winning-books on everything from New Mexican cuisine to outdoor smoking and grilling. We dined at The Shed, a Santa Fe staple on Palace Avenue in the historic plaza district. The Shed can only be described as cavernous, a space that's comprised of a series of vibrantly decorated, eclectic rooms. When Cheryl told me that her favorite on the menu—the number five enchilada plate with red chile—is the one dish that she and Bill can't help but order every time, I chose the plate straightaway.... More