These wings are not a traditional New Mexican dish, but since it’s one of our favorites, and we serve it in New Mexico, we have dared to adopt it as one of our hot and spicy favorites. Because of the high sugar content in the sauce, use it toward the end of grilling so it doesn’t burn.

There are more than 60 varieties of chiles that are grown only in the state of Oaxaca and nowhere else in Mexico. We have suggested substitutions here to reflect varieties more commonly available north of the border. You can use oil instead of lard, but the flavor will change dramatically.

The avocado is the "secret ingredient" that gives this salsa its creamy texture. We know what makes it hot! It’s great in soups and beans but we put it in everything.

The deliciously fruity salsa can be kept in the refrigerator for a few days, but fresh it's just best. Tip: For a killer tropical seafood sauce, simmer the salsa in a small saucepan with about 1/2 cup of Chardonnay for 10 minutes, then puree it.

^{The shrimp taste better if you cook them with their shells on. Then you can serve them as an appetizer and have your guests peel the shrimp themselves. Alternatively, you can use peeled shrimp and serve them over white rice.}

This recipe is for a dish called the national snack of Peru. It’s prepared and sold by street vendors all over the country. Traditionally it is made with beef heart, but I’ve substituted sirloin for a more tender kebab. Achiote paste is made from the red seeds of the annatto tree and is used as a seasoning and to impart a yellow coloring. Available in Latin markets, mail order, or in speciality sections of grocery stores, the paste is much easier to use than the seeds.

This is the method used by chef Anthony Tuttle at the Marriott Phuket Resort and Spa’s cooking school to prepare those delicious prawns. Serve the prawns with jasmine rice.

To insure the best pickled chiles, choose only the freshest ones and those with no blemishes. Note: This recipe requires advance preparation.