Ristras

 





Moving to New Mexico in October had a lot of unknown advantages, one of the biggest was that it was harvest time. I know that every state has a harvest season and festivals that go around it, but here there was something unique about chili season. Of course, that was seeing all the ristras everywhere, and having the opportunity to make one. On that note though I’m not going to lie, prior to moving here I never knew the term ristra. Thankfully I quickly learned that they are both a method for preserving chili peppers for further use as well as a sign for good luck and health to the household.

So, what else is a new person to the state to do during harvest? Dive right in and learn exactly how to do this, and thankfully the opportunity presented itself. Big Jim Farms in Los Rancho de Albuquerque offered beginner classes on this classic technique, and it was a day to remember. Upon arriving there were buckets lined up overflowing with fresh peppers ready to be strung and preserved by myself and plenty of other first timers eager to learn how to do this.

Once the class started, we gathered around and listened to the tutorial, and were left to our own devices to attempt to tie chili peppers together, and hang them to dry. Well, all I can say is that practice clearly make perfect, and what looks easy is not. After an awkward few attempts, I was finally able to properly knot the peppers and get them properly hung. Then came the topper which thankfully I was able to get some assistance on. That was back in the last week of October, and as of the beginning of December I can proudly say that my ristra is still hanging, and the peppers are dried out ready for their next use. Not that I’m going to cook with this one, the first one I made will stay as a decoration for good luck, and a reminder of one of my first true experiences in New Mexico.

Looking back on it now the day was very enjoyable, getting to jump into what is a true cultural experience that is constantly handed down and regularly practiced. Will I make my own again? Probably not, but it was a great time. Now I look forward to making my own red or green sauce so I can answer the one question that is always asked in this state. I will always appreciate the experience though, and will definitely respect the work that goes into making these whether for consumption, or decoration. For one of my first cultural experiences in New Mexico I don’t think I could have picked a better one to really introduce myself to this state.


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