Forktionary

Rotel

Solanum lycopersicum (for tomato), Capsicum annuum (for chili) Canned Vegetable, Processed Food

Rotel Canned Vegetable, Processed Food

At a Glance

  • Category Canned Vegetable, Processed Food

The Forktionary Angle

"Unpacking the magic of Ro*Tel: how this simple canned blend became an indispensable shortcut for Tex-Mex flavor."

Definition

A popular brand of canned diced tomatoes and green chilies, offering a convenient blend of mild heat and tangy tomato flavor for various Tex-Mex dishes.

Common Use Queso, chili, dips, casseroles
Heat Level Available in mild, original, hot
Key Ingredients Tomatoes, green chilies (Poblano/Anaheim)

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Rotel are:

Tangy mildly spicy savory umami (from tomato)

Chef’s Secret

For an extra layer of smoky flavor, drain the Ro*Tel, then lightly roast the contents in a dry pan until slightly charred before adding to your dish.

Best Substitutes

Diced Tomatoes + Diced Green Chilies

fresh or canned
Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

Available in different heat levels (original, mild, hot). Check for low sodium options if preferred.

Culinary Pairings

Cheese ground beef beans tortilla chips cilantro onions

Recipes Using Rotel

Awesome Healthy Black Bean Soup image
Small Appliance Stove Top Vegetarian Small Appliance

Awesome Healthy Black Bean Soup

This vibrant and flavorful black bean soup is packed with protein and nutrients! Perfect for a healthy weeknight meal, this recipe is easily customizable to your taste. Our perfected version boasts a creamy texture and a zesty kick, thanks to the addition of Rotel and fresh cilantro. Get ready to experience the ultimate black bean soup – delicious, nutritious, and surprisingly easy to make!

See Complete Recipe
Easy Mexican Rice image 108
Pasta Rice And Grains Main Ingredient Long Grain Rice Course

Easy Mexican Rice

Craving authentic Mexican flavor? This Easy Mexican Rice recipe is unbelievably delicious and surprisingly simple to make! Get ready for perfectly fluffy, flavorful rice bursting with vibrant taste in just 55 minutes. This recipe is a crowd-pleaser, guaranteed to become a family favorite.

See Complete Recipe
Bean And Corn Salsa image
Main Ingredient Time To Make Egg Free Sauces

Bean And Corn Salsa

This surprisingly addictive bean and corn salsa will be the star of your next tailgate or barbecue! I initially doubted this chickpea-based salsa, but it's become a crowd favorite, always disappearing first. The best part? No refrigeration needed for the ingredients, making it the perfect make-ahead party snack. Easy to prepare in just 15 minutes, this recipe is a must-try!

See Complete Recipe
Baked Spaghetti Cheesy Spicy image 113
Pasta Rice And Grains Main Dish Spaghetti Course

Baked Spaghetti Cheesy Spicy

This isn't your average baked spaghetti! Developed by sisters for late-night study sessions (and many happy bellies since!), this recipe delivers cheesy, spicy goodness in abundance. Perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers – it freezes beautifully and can even be prepped the day before. Get ready for a flavor explosion!

See Complete Recipe
Cheesy Spicy Cornbread image 105
Savory Savory 30 Minutes Or Less Spicy

Cheesy Spicy Cornbread

Spice up your dinner with this cheesy, spicy cornbread recipe! A quick and easy side dish that's perfect for any occasion. This savory cornbread recipe is unbelievably delicious, with the perfect blend of cheesy and spicy flavors. Feel free to customize it with your favorite additions like red or green onions! High-altitude baking tips included.

See Complete Recipe
2 By 4 Soup image
Easy Lunch Southwestern United States Comfort Food

2 By 4 Soup

Warm up your soul with this budget-friendly 2x4 Hearty Beef Stew! A ridiculously satisfying and flavorful stew, perfect for chilly evenings. This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it to your liking and stretch your grocery budget. Get ready for tender beef, hearty vegetables, and a comforting broth that will leave you wanting more!

See Complete Recipe