Hatch peppers are pictured in this undated photo provided by Stater Bros.
The long-anticipated Hatch chili peppers, grown only in a small New Mexico town for a short time each season, have made their way onto California store shelves.
The annual happening resulted in large chili roasting events, such as last year’s roasting at Stater Bros. on Allen Avenue in Pasadena.
Because the growing season for the elusive chile peppers is short, they are traditionally bought and roasted in bulk, then frozen to be used throughout the year.
“The town of Hatch and the Hatch Valley region are home to some of the most coveted chile peppers on the market,” according to a Stater Bros. statement. “Their limited availability and unique flavor, along with the rich history and culture surrounding them, makes Hatch peppers a coveted gem.”
But with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the store will not be holding a roasting event this year, representatives said.
“We know many Southern California consumers have been looking forward to our annual Hatch Chile roasting events this year, however, due to the coronavirus pandemic, Stater Bros. Markets was unable to obtain permitting from the county health departments to hold the events,” company Vice President Corporate Affairs Nancy Negrette said.
Nonetheless, the Hatch Chiles have arrived.
“Although we will not be able to perform chile roasting at our locations this year, the good news is that all 171 of our stores have 2(-pound). bags of Hatch Chiles available for sale at $4.99 per bag,’ Negrette said.
” For customers that desire larger quantities, we offer 10(-pound) and 25(-pound) boxes for special order,” she said. The 10-pounds boxes sell for $19.99 and the 25-pound boxes are priced at $34.99. Customers should speak with a store manager or produce professional to order the larger boxes.
“Hatch Chiles will be available through the month of September,” she said.
In Pasadena, Stater Bros. Market is located at 1390 Allen Avenue.
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