Canned Goods | Vegetarian Gluten Free Low Fat

Rotel

Solanum lycopersicum Allergen-Free
rotel

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Solanaceae
  • Primary Cuisine Tex-Mex
  • Seasonality Year-Round
  • Source Tomatoes, Green Chilies

The Forktionary Angle

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

Definition

A brand of canned diced tomatoes blended with diced green chilies, offering a mild to medium spicy flavor.

Sensory Profile

TasteUmami, Mildly Spicy, Tangy
TextureSoft, Slightly firm, Viscous
AromaTomato, Earthy, Mild Chili
AcidityMedium

Technical Metrics

Common Use

Queso, chili, dips, casseroles

Heat Level

Available in mild, original, hot

Key Ingredients

Tomatoes, green chilies (Poblano/Anaheim)

Nutrition Facts

Per 125g (1/2 cup)
Calories20 kcal
Total Fat0 g
Saturated Fat0 g
Trans Fat0 g
Cholesterol0 mg
Protein1 g
Total Carbohydrate4 g
Dietary Fiber1 g
Total Sugars2 g
Calcium20 mg
Iron0.5 mg
Potassium200 mg

Chef’s Secret

For a thicker consistency in dips, drain some of the liquid before adding Rotel.

Substitutions

Best Match

Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies

1:1

Best direct substitute, matches flavor and texture profile closely.

Diced Tomatoes + Jalapeño

1:1 (adjust jalapeño to taste)

Good for controlling spice level; provides fresh chili flavor.

Salsa (mild)

1:1

Adds similar flavor, but often has more liquid and different texture.

Tomato Paste + Water + Chili Powder

1 tbsp paste + 3 tbsp water + 1/4 tsp chili powder (per 1/2 cup Rotel)

Pantry staple option for tomato base and a touch of heat.

Buying Guide

Look for "Original" or "Mild" for classic flavor, or "Hot" for extra kick.

Flavor Pairings

Nachos Chili Queso Tacos Casseroles Mexican Stews

Recipes Using Rotel

Awesome Healthy Black Bean Soup image 117
Preparation Comfort Food Low Cholesterol Black Beans

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
Baked Spaghetti Cheesy Spicy image 170
Course One Dish Meal Spaghetti Preparation

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