Arizona is known for its unmatched scenery, sunny days, and wealth of outdoor activities, but there is plenty in the state for foodies to love as well. The culinary scene in Arizona sits at the intersection of Native American, Mexican, and contemporary influences, and the result is incredible-tasting foods you’re unlike to find anywhere else. When you move into a home in Sierra Vista, you can expect of plenty of opportunities to taste what the state has to offer. If you’re new to Arizona, as you begin your exploration of the area, make sure these foods are on your to-do list.
Sonoran Hot Dog
Sonoran hot dogs are one of the state’s most famous foods. This style of hot dog actually originated in Mexico, but the popular recipe poured across the border and became a fast favorite with people across Arizona. Sonoran hot dogs start with a bacon-wrapped hot dog, which is then put into a large bun and topped with beans, onions, tomatoes, mustard, and mayonnaise. Some people are a little intimidated by their first Sonoran hot dog, but after one bite, you’ll be craving this popular treat like a local.
Mesquite Flour
Mesquite flour needs a little work from you before it can become a food you have to try, but this unique grain will give your baked goods a brand-new taste. Mesquite flour is made from ground mesquite pods and is said to have a sweet, caramel-like flavor. You can buy it pre-ground, or you can buy your own pods and take them to a mill. You can use the flour to make a variety of baked goods, or, if you prefer for someone to do the baking for you, keep an eye out for mesquite bread in local bakeries.
Cochinitos
You may hear cochinitos called puerquitos or even Mexican piggy cookies—names which all derive from the pig shape of the cookies. These cookies may look like traditional American sugar cookies, but they are actually spiced with cinnamon and molasses and are fluffier in texture. Cochinitos are favorite treats for kids to get at bakeries across the state, but they are loved by plenty of grown-ups as well.
Navajo Tacos
The roots of Navajo tacos can be traced back to 1864, when the Navajo tribe was forced to leave their land and walk to New Mexico. Because they didn’t have many ingredients with them on their walk, they developed a technique of mixing flour, sugar, and salt together and frying the dough in lard—a concoction that is now called frybread. The bubbly frybread is then topped with taco ingredients, like ground beef, cheese, and lettuce. Navajo tacos are popular across the region.
Tamales
Tamales are another Mexican recipe that has firmly taken hold in Arizona. Tamales consist of a maize-based dough that is spread on a corn husk and topped with fillings like chicken, beef, beans, and cheese. The corn husk is wrapped and tied around the dough and fillings, and the whole thing is then steamed. The corn husk is unwrapped, and you eat the cooked fillings and dough inside.
Prickly Pear
Prickly pear comes from the prickly pear cacti’s colorful fruits. With a sweet taste, it can be eaten as is but is most commonly integrated into recipes. Prickly pear syrup is a common iteration and is frequently used in cocktails or as a topping for pancakes or ice cream. Prickly pear, which is sometimes called cactus pear, can also be used in salads, salsas, and other recipes that could use a subtle sweetness. If you try prickly pear as it is, don’t be surprised by the seeds. The fruit is filled with tiny seeds, but they are safe and not removed for eating.
Chiltepin Peppers
Chiltepin peppers give many Arizona recipes their smoky flavor and spicy heat. These small peppers grow in the wild in the state and can be used in countless ways in salsas, marinades, and more. Chiltepin peppers are extremely hot, measuring about 20 times hotter than a jalapeno and four times hotter than a serrano pepper. You can find these peppers growing wild across the Southwest, and you will sometimes hear them called bird’s eye peppers.
If you’re ready to explore Arizona’s culinary scene for yourself, then a new home in a Castle & Cooke community is the perfect base. In all of our master-planned communities, you’ll find quality construction, thoughtful layouts, and modern features. Find out more about new homes in Sierra Vista by calling (520) 378-5110.