Texan Rice

Prep: 10 min Cook: 35 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: Mexican

A hearty Texan rice dish packed with bold flavors from tomatoes, chilies, and spices, perfect for a comforting meal with a spicy kick. Ideal for casual gatherings.

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Ingredients

  • 2 cups white rice
  • 1/3 cup cooking oil
  • 1 small can tomato sauce
  • 1 can Ro-Tel tomatoes and green chilies
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 fresh jalapeno pepper, seeds removed and chopped fine

Instructions

  1. Heat oil in a large skillet.
  2. Add rice and chili powder; stir until rice is clear.
  3. Add chopped onion and cook until they turn clear.
  4. Turn burner to medium heat.
  5. Add tomato sauce and 1 can of water; stir well.
  6. Drain the Ro-Tel tomatoes and green chilies.
  7. Add the drained tomatoes and chilies to the rice mixture.
  8. Add chopped jalapeno and all spices; stir in thoroughly.
  9. Reduce heat to a simmer.
  10. Add water occasionally to keep moist.
  11. Do not let the sauce dry out; simmer for 25 to 35 minutes or until rice is soft.
  12. Let set for 10 minutes before serving.

Tips & Substitutions

For a more flavorful dish, consider using vegetable broth instead of water. You can also substitute the white rice with brown rice, but adjust the cooking time accordingly. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of jalapeno or omit it entirely. Adding black beans can enhance the protein content, making it a more filling dish. For an extra kick, try adding a splash of Primer'S Hot Sauce during cooking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Texan Rice as a hearty side dish alongside grilled meats or tacos for a complete meal. It pairs perfectly with Zucchini Chili or can be topped with Avocado And Corn Salsa for a fresh contrast. For a vegetarian option, serve it with a side of black beans or a simple green salad. Garnish with fresh cilantro or lime wedges for added flavor.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover Texan Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, add a splash of water to the rice and microwave it in short intervals, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. You can also heat it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a bit of oil or water to prevent sticking.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Texan Rice contains roughly 672 calories, with 26g protein, 90g carbohydrates, and 34g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), calcium (91% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (67% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2479mg per serving (108% of the Daily Value).

672 kcal 34% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 26.4g 53% DV
Total Fat 34.2g 44% DV
Carbs 90.1g 33% DV
Fiber 18.8g 67% DV
Sugar 5.4g 11% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 2479.1mg 100% DV
Potassium 2510.9mg 53% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 300.6mcg 33% DV
Vitamin C 13.4mg 15% DV
Calcium 1183.7mg 91% DV
Iron 40mg 100% DV
Diet fit High-protein High-fiber

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Texan Rice ahead of time?

Yes, Texan Rice can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be reheated easily, making it a great option for meal prep.

How can I adjust the spiciness of this recipe?

To adjust the spiciness, you can reduce the amount of jalapeno or omit it altogether. Alternatively, you can use milder varieties of canned tomatoes or add a bit of sugar to balance the heat if it becomes too spicy.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind that it will require a longer cooking time, about 45-50 minutes. Additionally, you may need to increase the amount of water used, as brown rice absorbs more liquid than white.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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