Borderland Foods We Love That The Rest Of The USA Should Love Too

The borderland region is known for having its own unique culture that encompasses traits from all the people who live here. That includes the traditional foods and the fusion foods that keep people talking and coming back to the region for more. When visitors come to the area, they learn of new items that they can't get back in their hometown as easily as they do in El Paso. Or their craving the old favorites that just don't taste the same unless their in the southwest. I mean, it's not in every city you can see people in their pajamas at a restaurant filling up their own Tupperware with Menudo. That's an El Paso site to see. But trust me, they wish they could. There are plenty of delicious options to choose from but here are a few items from this area that the rest of the United States should get on board with.

Red and Green Chile

Let's start with New Mexico's state question- red or green? Almost every restaurant, whether they serve Mexican food or American-style diner food, red or green is going to be asked somewhere on the menu. Put it onSure your favorite on eggs, burritos, enchiladas, and more.

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Posole

I never had posole until I came to El Paso and started eating it during the holidays at my friend's homes. My friend's mother would make a massive pot of posole, and put all the toppings on the side. After my first bowl, I was hooked. And while we're discussing posole, Menudo is another dish I don't think people realize isn't as readily available on the weekends outside of the borderland. Sure, if you go searching in the right neighborhoods you'll find some spots, but nowhere near the availability here in the Sun City.

Sopapilla

Whether you like them stuffed and savory, or drizzled with honey and sweet, sopapillas are another regional delight the rest of the country should get on board with. I had soppapilla when I was little and visited Albuquerque and when I moved back, I was excited at how easily available they were. My favorite sopapillas are sprinkled with sugar and drizzled with honey and are served right after a delicious enchilada meal.

Frito Pie

This snack is messy but always delicious. Just rip open a bag of Fritos, top them with chili, cheese, and maybe some sour cream, and enjoy. Fritos have been around for almost 100 years and the company believes the Frito Pie was invented not long after, according to the Dallas News.

Queso Fundido

I mean, I'm pretty sure my first year moving to New Mexico I ate a horrifying amount of queso fundido. The gooey, cheesy concoction can include rajas, chorizo, and more but it really doesn't matter what you put in it, it's going to be delicious. In most states, when you want a cheese appetizer, you'll get queso instead. Queso just doesn't compare to the delight you'll feel enjoying queso fundido.

Topo Chico or Jarritos

Aaron Savage, Townsquare Media

To some, it may just be mineral water. But to a Texan or New Mexican, the way to go is always with a Topo or Jarrito. Whether enjoying one poolside, or at at a bar with lime and vodka, these are the mineral waters we enjoy.

Michelada with Lime

Look, I have no idea why Micheladas come in other regions with tomato juice, but in El Paso a Michelada only has salt, ice, lime juice, and a refreshing beer poured on top. And this is the best way, in my opinion, to enjoy a beer on the weekend.