The tiny town of Hatch in Southern New Mexico gets to rockin’ this time of the year with sweet onions through July, followed it famous Hatch chili peppers during and August and September.
But while Hatch chiles might steal the spotlight, another New Mexico staple quietly complements the heat: sweet, mild onions grown in the same fertile valleys. Together, these crops tell a story of local flavor, agricultural tradition and growing national appeal.
Hatch chile season might not officially begin until late July, but Melissa’s Produce says Hatch sweet onions offer retailers a flavorful head start. Available from late May through July, these sweet, yellow onions are grown in New Mexico’s legendary Hatch Valley, where rich soil and ideal growing conditions create a flavor that’s sweet, mellow and perfect for summer grilling season, according to a news release.
Grown exclusively in the Hatch Valley of southern New Mexico, Hatch chiles thrive in the area’s unique combination of high desert climate, rich volcanic soil and temperature swings between hot days and cool nights. The territory gives Hatch chiles their signature flavor: earthy, slightly smoky and ranging from mild to hot, depending on the variety.
While technically a type of New Mexican green chile, Hatch chiles are distinguished by their place of origin, and for some fans, no other chile compares.
Their short season, typically from August through September, adds to their allure, fueling a cult-like following among food lovers who count the days until fresh Hatch chiles are back in stores and farmers markets.
Hatch sweet onions are available from late May through July. These sweet, yellow onions are grown in New Mexico’s legendary Hatch Valley, where rich soil and ideal growing conditions create a flavor that’s sweet, mellow and perfect for summer grilling season, according to a news release.
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