When it comes to bold flavors and hearty dishes, Texas cuisine is hard to beat. From classic barbecue joints to Tex-Mex eateries, the Lone Star State is famous for its mouth-watering eats that pack a punch of flavor. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through 18 spicy Texas recipes that will leave your taste buds doing the two-step.
From slow-cooked beef brisket smothered in tangy BBQ sauce to spicy shrimp tacos and rich pecan pie, these dishes are sure to satisfy your cravings and keep you coming back for more. Whether you’re a native Texan or just looking to add some Lone Star State flair to your cooking repertoire, these recipes are the perfect way to spice up your life.
**Stay tuned for the full list of recipes!**
Texas-style beef brisket
Experience the bold flavors of Texas with this classic beef brisket recipe, slow-cooked to tender perfection and smothered in a tangy BBQ sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 (5-6 pound) beef brisket
– 1/4 cup chili powder
– 2 tablespoons ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 cup BBQ sauce
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the brisket, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Place the brisket in a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot with a lid. Pour in beef broth, leaving about 1 inch of space at the top.
5. Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven. Cook for 3-4 hours, or until the brisket is tender and falls apart easily.
6. Remove the brisket from the oven and slather on BBQ sauce. Return it to the oven for an additional 30 minutes to caramelize the sauce.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours
Spicy Tex-Mex chili
Add some heat to your meal with this bold and flavorful Spicy Tex-Mex chili that’s perfect for a chilly evening or a quick lunch. With its blend of spices, ground beef, and kidney beans, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
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: jalapeños or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper to the pot; cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and beef broth to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Simmer the chili over low heat for 30 minutes or until heated through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Texas cowboy beans
This recipe serves up a classic Texas cowboy bean dish that’s perfect for a family dinner, potluck, or even a rodeo-sized gathering. With its rich flavors and tender texture, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup ketchup
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons bacon drippings or vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven, combine beans, onion, garlic, ketchup, beef broth, brown sugar, mustard, salt, and pepper.
3. Cover the pot and bake for 8-10 hours or until beans are tender.
4. Stir in bacon drippings or oil before serving.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Southern fried chicken with Texas spices
Get ready to experience a twist on classic Southern fried chicken with the bold flavors of Texas! This recipe combines the crunch and juiciness of traditional fried chicken with the Lone Star State’s signature spices.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs chicken pieces (legs, thighs, wings, breasts)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each chicken piece into the buttermilk, coating completely, then roll in the flour mixture to coat.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F.
5. Fry chicken for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Texas sheet cake
Classic Texas Sheet Cake Recipe
Texas sheet cake is a beloved dessert that’s perfect for potlucks, parties, or just a sweet treat any time of the year. This recipe yields a moist and flavorful chocolate cake with a rich, gooey brownie-like topping.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/2 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 15×10-inch jelly roll pan and line with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine cocoa powder, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
6. Melt chocolate chips in microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
7. Pour melted chocolate over cake batter and sprinkle with pecans (if using).
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Smoked Texas sausage
Get ready to savor the rich flavors of Texas with this mouthwatering smoked sausage recipe. With just a few simple ingredients and some careful attention, you’ll be enjoying tender, juicy sausages in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound smoked Texas sausage (such as Andouille or chorizo)
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 tablespoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. Remove the sausages from their casings and place them in a single layer on a wire rack set over a rimmed baking sheet or grill tray.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Sprinkle the spice mixture evenly over the sausages.
5. Place the sausages in the smoker and cook for 2-3 hours, or until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
6. Remove from heat and let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Texas caviar dip
Texas Caviar Dip: A Spicy Twist on Classic Hummus
Texas caviar dip is a flavorful and addictive twist on traditional hummus, with the added kick of diced jalapeños. This recipe makes a great appetizer or snack for any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 (15 ounce) can black-eyed peas, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the black-eyed peas, mayonnaise, cilantro, lime juice, and jalapeño.
2. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
3. Add the olive oil and stir until smooth.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None
Yield: About 2 cups of dip
Tex-Mex enchiladas
These classic enchiladas pack a flavorful punch with tender chicken, creamy cheese, and spicy sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing party dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 cup enchilada sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1 jalapeño pepper, diced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for brushing tortillas
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Brush each tortilla with a little vegetable oil.
3. Spoon shredded chicken onto the center of each tortilla, leaving a 1-inch border.
4. Roll up tortillas and place seam-side down in a baking dish.
5. Pour enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas and sprinkle with cheese.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Sprinkle with cilantro, onion, and jalapeño before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Texas pecan pie
A classic Southern dessert, Texas pecan pie is a staple at many family gatherings and holiday meals. This recipe combines rich caramel flavors with the unmistakable crunch of pecans for a true Texas treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pecan halves
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 3 tablespoons melted butter
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, combine corn syrup, sugar, and melted butter. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
3. Remove from heat and stir in pecans, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Roll out pie crust and place in a 9-inch pie dish. Fill with pecan mixture and smooth top.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until filling is set and crust is golden brown.
6. Let cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Grilled Texas ribeye steak
Savor the bold flavors of a Texas-sized ribeye steak, grilled to perfection and served with a smoky char. This simple recipe yields a tender, juicy cut that’s sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 oz) Texas-style ribeye steak
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– Optional: your favorite seasonings, such as paprika or cayenne pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat (400°F).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the ribeye steak, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place the steak on the grill and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
5. Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 12-15 minutes total cooking time.
Texas cornbread casserole
This classic Texas cornbread casserole is a staple of Southern comfort food, perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or a cozy night in. With its moist texture and sweet, savory flavors, it’s sure to become a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cornbread mix
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– 1/4 cup crumbled cooked bacon (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine cornbread mix, shredded cheese, heavy cream, eggs, and chopped green onions. Mix until just combined.
3. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. If using bacon, sprinkle it on top of the casserole.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown and set.
6. Remove from oven and let cool for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spicy Texas shrimp tacos
Get ready for a flavor explosion with this Spicy Texas shrimp tacos recipe! A perfect combination of spicy, tangy, and savory flavors come together to create a mouthwatering dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Sliced radishes, lime wedges, cilantro, and sour cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper.
2. Add the shrimp to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove the shrimp from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they’re pink and cooked through.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos with grilled shrimp, radishes, lime wedges, cilantro, and sour cream (if using).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Texas-style pulled pork
Get ready to sink your teeth into tender, juicy pulled pork that’s smothered in a tangy BBQ sauce and inspired by the Lone Star State. This classic recipe is a staple of Texas-style barbecue and is sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1 cup dry rub (a mix of paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper)
– 1 cup BBQ sauce
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (or use a slow cooker). Season the pork shoulder with the dry rub, making sure to coat it evenly.
2. Smoke/cook the pork for 8-10 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 190°F.
3. After 8 hours, brush the BBQ sauce all over the pork and continue cooking for another 30 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and let rest for 15 minutes before shredding with two forks.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Tex-Mex breakfast burritos
Start your day off right with these flavorful burritos packed with scrambled eggs, spicy sausage, and creamy cheese.
Ingredients:
– 4 large eggs
– 1 pound breakfast sausage (such as chorizo or Mexican-style), casings removed
– 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 8-10 flour tortillas (12 inches)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the sausage over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through.
3. Crack in the eggs and scramble them with the cooked sausage until fully set.
4. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble the burritos by filling each tortilla with scrambled eggs, cheese, and cilantro. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Texas red chili con carne
A classic Texas staple, this rich and flavorful red chili con carne is a perfect blend of tender beef, crunchy vegetables, and a hint of spice. Served over rice or with crusty bread, it’s a comforting dish that warms the heart and soul.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chopped bell peppers (any color)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and bell peppers; cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, red kidney beans, and water. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 30 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Smoked Texas turkey
Get ready to elevate your turkey game with this mouth-watering Smoked Texas Turkey recipe. By combining the rich flavors of smoked wood, spices, and tender turkey, you’ll be treated to a truly unforgettable dining experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 1 cup kosher salt
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup smoked paprika
– 2 tablespoons chili powder
– 1 tablespoon garlic powder
– 1 tablespoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– Wood chips for smoking (such as post oak or mesquite)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together salt, brown sugar, smoked paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, and cumin.
3. Rub the mixture all over the turkey, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
4. Place the turkey in the smoker and close the lid.
5. Smoke for 6-8 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
6. During the last hour of cooking, baste the turkey with a mixture of apple cider vinegar and water.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Texas jalapeño poppers
Texas Jalapeño Poppers Recipe
Get ready to spice up your snack game with these mouthwatering Texas jalapeño poppers! This recipe combines the perfect blend of creamy cheese, crunchy bacon, and spicy jalapeños for a flavor explosion that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 large jalapeños
– 1 block cream cheese (softened)
– 1/2 cup cheddar cheese (shredded)
– 6 slices of bacon (cooked and crumbled)
– 1 tablespoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: additional seasonings such as cumin, paprika, or chili powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the jalapeños in half lengthwise and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix together cream cheese, cheddar cheese, bacon, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
4. Stuff each jalapeño half with the cheese mixture, mounding it slightly.
5. Place poppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each one.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Texas jalapeño poppers!
Texas-style barbecue sauce
Get ready to slather up your BBQ with this classic Texas-style sauce recipe! This tangy and slightly sweet condiment is perfect for grilling or slow-cooking your favorite meats.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup ketchup
– 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine ketchup, apple cider vinegar, water, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, whisking constantly.
3. Reduce heat to low and let the sauce cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
4. Remove from heat and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your life with these 18 mouth-watering Texas recipes! From classic beef brisket and chili con carne to Tex-Mex twists on traditional dishes, this collection has something for every taste. Discover the flavors of the Lone Star State with Southern-style fried chicken, tender pulled pork, and sweet pecan pie. Whether you’re in the mood for spicy tacos or comforting caviar dip, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
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