Cilantro, burrito and tostada are terms that pop on menus in this region, according to Datassential, reflecting its large Mexican population. Zucchini, which grows in abundance in this region, also appears frequently on menus here, as does avocado, an important crop of Southern California.

Colorado, New Mexico, Arizona: Green chile is a popular garnish on items such as hamburgers and breakfast burritos in New Mexico, Colorado and Arizona.

A pork stew called green chili, made by simmering green chiles with onions, garlic and often Mexican oregano, usually thickened with a roux and cooked with pork stock and chunks of pork, is popular in those three states, as well as in the Midwestern state of Indiana.

Contact Bret Thorn at Bret.Thorn@penton.com
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