El Chilote, meaning "the big chile," is the mascot and official character for Gordo the Chef’s restaurant. His chili is legendary, with roots deeply embedded in Mexican American history. El Chilote has a connection to iconic figures in Chicano folklore like Joaquín Murrieta, Gregorio Cortez and Tiburcio Vásquez. For those of you young Homies who aren’t familiar with them, their stories are available in your local libraries—make sure to check them out. These are historical figures who fought for our rights, and their legacies should be honored.    El Chilote played a vital role in keeping the strength alive in the veins of these legends, ensuring they could endure tough times. Born in the Chimayó valley, just outside Espanola, New Mexico, El Chilote is from the purest line of chile seeds, renowned across the Southwest. His chili is fiery, full of flavor, and only true Mexicans, Chicanos, and some tough Gringos can handle the heat.     Just a heads up—don’t mix El Chilote with tequila. That combo can be dangerous!