Imagine the King of Pop, Michael Jackson, with a food obsession! Just like Elvis Presley's infamous six-month meatloaf and mashed potatoes phase, MJ had a culinary fixation. During the creation of his groundbreaking album, "Thriller," which dominated the world with over 70 million copies sold after its 1982 release, Jackson was utterly devoted to enchiladas. This fascinating detail comes straight from the kitchen of his first private chef, Mani Niall.
Niall shared this tasty tidbit on the California Eating blog, explaining how he became MJ's personal chef leading up to and during the Victory Tour in 1984. It all started with a visit to the Golden Temple restaurant, where Niall worked as a kitchen and catering manager. The restaurant's food made such an impression on Jackson that he immediately ordered red chile enchiladas, ginger-miso salad, and blueberry bars the very next day. A generous tip of $22 (back in 1982!) sealed the deal, and soon Niall was cooking privately for MJ, both at his home and on tour. Naturally, enchiladas were always on the menu.
But here's where it gets interesting: Most traditional enchiladas are made with meat, like beef or chicken. However, Niall revealed that Michael Jackson was a vegetarian. This means MJ's enchiladas were meatless, proving that vegetarian dishes can be just as satisfying and flavorful! Jackson preferred his enchiladas with a kick. Niall wrote that MJ loved a smoky red chile sauce from New Mexico, which he enjoyed on enchiladas, nachos, and even potato skins.
When Niall joined Jackson on the Victory Tour, which spanned nearly six months, cooking spicy enchiladas for MJ on the road was a given. Niall packed a bulk bag of New Mexican red chile powder, along with other essential herbs, spices, and French sea salt. He used the red chile powder at every stop, a testament to Jackson's unwavering love for this Mexican dish. What do you think? Did you know about Michael Jackson's love for enchiladas? Would you try a vegetarian enchilada? Share your thoughts in the comments!
