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A Culinary Degree in New Mexico, Land of Enchantment

by Sonja Albrecht
sonja.albrecht@culinaryartsschoolreview.com
Culinary Arts School Review Columnist

Chef college in New Mexico offers a distinctive opportunity to explore the flavors, ancient cultures, and striking natural beauty of the Southwest. The majestic terrain and Native American heritage attracts a variety of artists, making New Mexico an exhilarating place to pursue a culinary degree.

The “Land of Enchantment” features a vibrant culinary scene, drawing on Mexican and Native American traditional foods. Maize, squash, and chilies are local staples. Chile is a statewide obsession, honored in cook offs, festivals, and an annual convention. Your chef college will likely introduce you to the many uses of chilies: sopapillas, tamales, and countless spicy sauces. Native American specialties include piki bread, made from ground maize.

Your chef college experience will be touched by the mystique of New Mexico’s cultural and artistic heritage. You’ll see evidence of Navajo, Pueblo, Hopi, and Apache tribal culture in the state’s art, architecture, handicrafts, and cuisine. New Mexicans are serious about the arts, whether it’s literature, painting, or culinary arts. Santa Fe is the third largest art market in America, and the state’s many museums and cultural foundations ensure that native arts and crafts continue to flourish.

New Mexico also offers boundless opportunity for outdoor recreation. When you’re not busy with your culinary degree, enjoy the stunning beauty of the high plains desert, with its wide open skies and rock formations. Taos beckons skiers and mountain bikers, and the northern region feature rock climbing and caving.

Chef college in New Mexico promises more than a culinary degree; the state’s cultural vitality will inspire and shape your experience here.

Sources

New Mexico Culture Net
New Mexico Tourism Department

About the Author

Sonja Albrecht works as a writer and editor for an online media company. She has also taught college writing and completed a Ph.D. in English.

Posted on October 5, 2006 at 11:38 AM