When it comes to bold flavors and spicy dishes, few places can match the enthusiasm of Texas. From juicy beef brisket smothered in BBQ sauce to breakfast tacos packed with chorizo and jalapeños, the Lone Star State is renowned for its mouth-numbing cuisine. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey across Texas, showcasing 18 recipes that will set your taste buds ablaze. Whether you’re a native Texan or just looking to spice up your mealtime, these bold and flavorful dishes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Texas-style beef brisket
A classic Texas-style brisket recipe that’s perfect for BBQ enthusiasts and beginners alike. This tender, flavorful dish is sure to become a staple at your next outdoor gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 beef brisket (10-12 pounds)
– 1/4 cup salt
– 2 tablespoons black pepper
– 2 tablespoons chili powder
– 2 tablespoons garlic powder
– 1 tablespoon paprika
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1 cup beer (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F (or use a charcoal grill with a temperature control).
2. In a small bowl, mix together salt, black pepper, chili powder, garlic powder, and paprika.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the brisket, making sure to cover every surface.
4. Place the brisket in the smoker or grill, fat side up.
5. Close the lid and cook for 10 hours (or until internal temperature reaches 190°F).
6. During the last hour of cooking, baste the brisket with apple cider vinegar and beer (if using).
7. Remove from heat and let rest for 30 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 10 hours
Spicy chili con carne
A classic Texas-style chili con carne recipe with a kick of heat, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup beef broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: jalapenos or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Brown ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces.
2. Add onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until vegetables are softened.
3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper; cook 1 minute.
4. Add diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and beef broth; bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let chili cook for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro or scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Smoked Texas sausage
Get ready to savor the classic flavors of the Lone Star State with this simple and delicious recipe for Smoked Texas sausage.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb smoked sausage (such as Andouille or Kielbasa)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. Remove the sausage from its casing and place it in a large bowl.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the dry rub mixture to the sausage and toss until evenly coated.
5. Place the sausage on the smoker racks, leaving some space between each link.
6. Smoke for 2-3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
7. Remove from heat and let rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Chicken fried steak with cream gravy
Savory Chicken Fried Steak with Creamy Gravy Recipe
A classic comfort food dish that’s sure to satisfy any appetite, this Chicken Fried Steak with Creamy Gravy recipe is a must-try. Tender and juicy chicken breasts are breaded and fried to perfection, served with a rich and creamy gravy.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Creamy Gravy (recipe below)
Creamy Gravy:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Dip each chicken breast in buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
3. Heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry chicken breasts for 5-6 minutes on each side or until cooked through.
4. Let chicken rest for a few minutes before serving with Creamy Gravy.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes
Serve hot and enjoy!
Texas sheet cake
A classic dessert that’s easy to make and perfect for large gatherings or potlucks. This moist, chocolatey cake is topped with a rich brown sugar and pecan streusel.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1 cup chopped pecans
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 15×10-inch jelly roll pan or a large cookie sheet.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth.
4. Gradually add the flour mixture and mix until just combined.
5. Melt chocolate chips in microwave or double boiler. Pour into batter and stir to combine.
6. Spread batter evenly into prepared pan.
7. Mix brown sugar and pecans in a small bowl. Sprinkle over top of cake.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Pecan pie with bourbon glaze
Rich and buttery pecan pie gets a sophisticated twist with the addition of a bourbon glaze. This classic Southern dessert is perfect for special occasions or cozying up with loved ones.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pecan halves
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– Bourbon glaze ingredients:
+ 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey
+ 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together corn syrup, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
3. Stir in melted butter and pecans until they’re evenly coated with the mixture.
4. Pour filling into a pre-baked pie crust (homemade or store-bought).
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown.
6. Allow the pie to cool completely on a wire rack.
7. To make the bourbon glaze, whisk together bourbon and powdered sugar in a small bowl until smooth.
8. Drizzle glaze over the cooled pecan pie and serve.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Jalapeño cornbread
Get ready for a flavorful twist on classic cornbread with the addition of jalapeños! This spicy cornbread is perfect for those who like a little heat in their baking.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1-2 jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped (depending on desired level of heat)
– Honey or maple syrup for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, salt, and baking soda.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, egg, and melted butter.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in chopped jalapeños.
6. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Breakfast tacos with chorizo
Start your day off right with these flavorful breakfast tacos filled with spicy chorizo, creamy scrambled eggs, and crispy tortillas.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Mexican chorizo sausage
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, cilantro, salsa
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Remove the chorizo from its casing and cook in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and crispy.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs and milk. Add butter and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Pour egg mixture into a greased 9-inch pie plate or skillet. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until eggs are scrambled and cooked through.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos by spooning scrambled eggs onto a warmed tortilla, followed by a spoonful of chorizo and any desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Texas caviar (black-eyed pea salsa)
A delicious and addictive dip or topping, perfect for parties, snacks, or as a condiment for your favorite dishes. This recipe combines the creamy texture of black-eyed peas with the tanginess of lime juice and spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried black-eyed peas, soaked overnight and drained
– 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine black-eyed peas, bell pepper, onion, jalapeño, and garlic.
2. Squeeze lime juice over the mixture and stir to combine.
3. Add cumin, salt, and pepper; stir until well combined.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature with tortilla chips, crackers, or as a topping for your favorite dishes.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (including soaking time)
Smoked pork ribs with BBQ sauce
Get ready to fall off the bone with these tender and flavorful smoked pork ribs slathered in a sweet and tangy BBQ sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 racks of pork ribs (about 4 pounds)
– 1 cup wood chips (hickory or apple work well for smoking)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup smoked paprika
– 2 tablespoons garlic powder
– 1 tablespoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup BBQ sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225-250°F (110-120°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs by peeling it off with a butter knife or a paper towel.
4. Rub the spice mixture all over the ribs, making sure to coat them evenly.
5. Place the ribs in the smoker, bone side down, for 4-5 hours or until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
6. During the last 30 minutes of cooking, brush the ribs with BBQ sauce.
7. Remove the ribs from the smoker and let them rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours + 30 minutes
King Ranch chicken casserole
A classic comfort food recipe that’s perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in. This creamy, cheesy casserole combines the flavors of chicken, green chilies, and spices to create a deliciously satisfying dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 can (10 oz) cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 can (4 oz) chopped green chilies
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1 cup cooked white rice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté chicken and spices until cooked through.
3. In a separate bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup, milk, and chopped green chilies. Stir until smooth.
4. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange half the cooked rice, followed by the chicken mixture, and then the remaining rice.
5. Top with shredded cheese and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Fried okra with spicy dipping sauce
Get ready to enjoy a crispy and flavorful Southern classic – fried okra! This recipe combines the natural sweetness of okra with a bold and spicy dipping sauce that will leave you craving for more.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup okra pods, sliced into 1/4-inch pieces
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Spicy Dipping Sauce:
+ 1/2 cup mayonnaise
+ 1/4 cup hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
+ 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
+ 1 teaspoon honey
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip okra pieces into buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Fry coated okra in hot oil (375°F) for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Drain on paper towels and serve with Spicy Dipping Sauce.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Shiner Bock beer cheese soup
Warm up with this creamy, cheesy soup infused with the rich flavors of Shiner Bock beer.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6 ounces Shiner Bock beer
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
2. Stir in chicken broth, milk, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, diced tomatoes, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes or until heated through.
4. Stir in Shiner Bock beer.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Texas pecan pralines
Rich and buttery, these Texas pecan pralines are a classic Southern treat that’s perfect for snacking or gift-giving. With just five ingredients, you can whip up a batch in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 cup pecan halves
Instructions:
1. Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. Combine sugar, corn syrup, and water in a medium saucepan. Place over medium heat and cook, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches 235°F on a candy thermometer.
3. Remove from heat and stir in baking soda. Let cool slightly.
4. Stir in pecan halves until they’re evenly coated with the sugar mixture.
5. Pour into prepared baking dish and let cool to room temperature.
6. Break into pieces and serve.
Cooking Time: About 30 minutes, including cooling time.
Green chile mac and cheese
This creamy macaroni and cheese recipe gets a kick from the addition of green chile peppers, adding a depth of flavor and a touch of heat. Perfect for a comforting, yet bold twist on a classic.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Monterey Jack cheese
– 1/4 cup green chile peppers (canned or fresh)
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk to combine; cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
5. Bring mixture to a simmer and let cook for 2 minutes or until thickened.
6. Stir in cheddar, Monterey Jack, green chile peppers, paprika, salt, and pepper.
7. Combine cooked macaroni with cheese sauce; transfer to baking dish.
8. Top with additional grated cheese if desired.
9. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Grilled quail with jalapeño butter
Elevate your outdoor cooking game with this flavorful and spicy quail recipe, perfect for a summer evening.
Ingredients:
– 4 quails, cleaned and patted dry
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, chopped jalapeños, and honey until well combined.
3. Season the quails with salt and pepper on both sides.
4. Grill the quails for 8-10 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
5. During the last minute of grilling, brush the jalapeño butter mixture evenly onto each quail.
6. Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Pinto beans with bacon
A classic comfort food dish that’s perfect for a cozy night in, these smoky pinto beans are infused with the rich flavor of crispy bacon. This simple recipe is a great side dish or can be used as a topping for tacos, grilled meats, or baked potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried pinto beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, diced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy.
2. Remove the bacon from the pot with a slotted spoon and set aside.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the soaked pinto beans, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour, or until the beans are tender.
7. Stir in the cooked bacon and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Texas-style peach cobbler
Texas-Style Peach Cobbler Recipe
Get ready to taste the sweet and tangy flavors of Texas with this classic peach cobbler recipe.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups fresh or canned peaches, sliced
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced peaches, granulated sugar, flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix well until the peaches are evenly coated.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together melted butter, heavy cream or half-and-half, beaten eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Pour the wet ingredients over the peach mixture and mix until combined.
5. Roll out the pie crust to fit a 9×13-inch baking dish. Fill with the peach mixture and spread evenly.
6. Roll out the remaining pie crust and use to cover the cobbler. Crimp edges to seal.
7. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
Summary
Get ready for a flavor explosion! This article features 18 bold and spicy Texas recipes that will tantalize your taste buds. From classic comfort food like beef brisket and chili con carne to sweet treats like pecan pie and peach cobbler, these mouthwatering dishes showcase the Lone Star State’s love of big flavors. Whether you’re in the mood for something savory or sweet, there’s a recipe here that’s sure to please.
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