Flavors of Enchantment: Classic New Mexican Recipes Paperback – March 12, 2026

From the author who gave us the monumental Enchantment: a New Mexican Cookbook—a treasure trove of over 1,200 authentic recipes—comes Flavors of Enchantment, Art Pollard's carefully curated collection that distills the essence of New Mexican cuisine into its most essential and beloved classics.Art Pollard understands that New Mexican cooking is more than just a regional cuisine—it's a living tradition shaped by centuries of cultural convergence. Where Native American, Spanish, Mexican, and American frontier influences meet the high desert landscape, something magical emerges: dishes that speak of place, history, and home. Flavors of Enchantment captures this alchemy in a format designed for both newcomers and seasoned cooks seeking reliable versions of the recipes that define this distinctive tradition.Drawing from his exhaustive research showcased in the original Enchantment cookbook, Pollard has selected the recipes that truly matter—the ones passed down through generations in New Mexican kitchens, served at family gatherings, and found on tables from Taos to Las Cruces. This is not a condensed version but rather a thoughtfully edited collection that honors authenticity while remaining accessible to home cooks everywhere.The Appetizers section introduces bold, welcoming flavors—perhaps chile con queso with roasted Hatch chiles, or crispy empanadas filled with spiced meat and potatoes. The Drinks chapter celebrates both traditional refreshments and festive libations that complement the cuisine's heat and complexity.The Breads section reveals the foundation of New Mexican meals: pillowy sopaipillas that puff golden in hot oil, perfect for stuffing with savory fillings or drizzling with honey; tortillas made from scratch, both corn and flour; and traditional oven breads that have graced New Mexican tables for generations. These humble yet essential recipes connect modern cooks to centuries of bread-making tradition.In Main Dishes, the heart of the cuisine reveals itself: perfectly constructed enchiladas with red or green chile sauce (or "Christmas style" with both), slow-braised carne adovada that melts on the tongue, and tender tamales wrapped in corn husks. These recipes define the region's identity.The Soups and Stews section offers comfort—posole rich with hominy and pork, green chile stew that warms from the inside out. Meanwhile, Desserts provide sweet conclusions: biscochitos scented with anise, natillas custard, and other treats that balance the meal's earlier heat.What distinguishes Pollard's work is his respect for tradition combined with practical guidance. Having compiled over 1,200 recipes for his original Enchantment cookbook, he brings unparalleled expertise to understanding what makes these dishes authentic. He knows that New Mexican cuisine isn't Tex-Mex or Mexican food—it's its own distinct tradition where the chile reigns supreme and the question "red or green?" carries genuine significance.Flavors of Enchantment serves as both an approachable entry point and a reliable reference for authentic classic recipes. This is cooking that connects us to place, culture, and tradition—one delicious recipe at a time. Read more