Rotel is a brand of canned tomatoes and green chilies that is commonly used as an ingredient in various recipes, particularly in Tex-Mex and Mexican-inspired dishes. While you can buy Rotel pre-made at the store, you can also make your own version at home. Here's a simple recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 cans (14.5 ounces each) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (4 ounces) diced green chilies
- 1/2 medium onion, finely diced
- 1-2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional seasonings: cumin, chili powder, paprika, oregano
Instructions:
1. Heat the Oil: In a medium-sized saucepan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
2. Saute Onion and Garlic: Add the diced onion to the saucepan and sauté until softened, about 3-5 minutes. If using garlic, add it to the saucepan and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
3. Add Tomatoes and Green Chilies: Pour the diced tomatoes and diced green chilies (with their juices) into the saucepan with the sautéed onion and garlic. Stir to combine.
4. Season: Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. You can also add additional seasonings such as cumin, chili powder, paprika, or oregano to enhance the flavor, if desired. Start with small amounts and adjust to taste.
5. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let the mixture simmer gently for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. Adjust Consistency: If the mixture is too thick for your liking, you can add a splash of water or broth to thin it out.
7. Serve or Store: Once the Rotel mixture is ready, you can use it immediately in your favorite recipes, such as dips, soups, stews, or casseroles. Alternatively, you can let it cool completely and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
That's it! You've made your own homemade Rotel-style tomatoes and green chilies. Adjust the ingredients and seasonings to suit your taste preferences, and enjoy using it in a variety of dishes.