Tex-Mex Paella

Delicious Tex-Mex Paella Recipe from Spain | Ingredients: chicken, cumin, olive oil, beer, brown rice + more

Region / culture: Spain | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Tex-Mex Paella is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines the bold flavors of Tex-Mex cuisine with the traditional Spanish dish, paella. This dish is perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, as it is sure to impress with its vibrant colors and rich flavors.

History

Tex-Mex Paella is a fusion dish that combines the flavors of Tex-Mex cuisine, which is a blend of Mexican and American cuisine, with the traditional Spanish dish, paella. Paella is a rice dish that originated in the Valencia region of Spain and typically includes ingredients such as rice, vegetables, and seafood or meat. The addition of Tex-Mex flavors such as cumin, chili powder, and cheddar cheese gives this dish a unique and delicious twist.

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) boneless skinless chicken breast halves
1 tbsp ground cumin
1 tbsp chili powder
1 tbsp olive oil
1 cup beer
0.5 cup chicken broth
0.5 tsp salt
0.25 to 0.5 tsp ground red pepper
1 cup sliced green onions
1 red or green pepper, cut into julienne strips
2 medium yellow squash, cut into julienne strips
6 cups cooked white or brown rice
2 eggs, beaten
1.5 cups cottage cheese
2 tbsp grated parmesan cheese
2 cups grated cheddar cheese, divided

How to prepare

Pound the chicken breast halves to an even thickness between sheets of plastic wrap or wax paper.
Sprinkle both sides of each piece liberally with ground cumin and chili powder. Let it stand for 5 minutes.
Heat oil in a large heavy skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in a single layer and cook for 2 minutes on each side or until the chicken is no longer pink.
Remove the chicken from the skillet, reserving any accumulated juices, and cut it into 2-inch strips.
Add beer, broth, salt, and ground red pepper to the skillet. Bring it to a boil, stirring to loosen any clinging particles. Boil for 2 minutes.
Add onions, pepper, and squash to the skillet. Simmer for 6 to 7 minutes or until the squash is tender-crisp, stirring frequently.
Stir in rice, chicken, and accumulated juices. Cook until hot, stirring constantly. Serve immediately.

Variations

Substitute shrimp or chorizo for the chicken for a different flavor profile.
Add black beans or corn for extra texture and flavor.
Use different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack or pepper jack, for a unique twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to pound the chicken breast halves to an even thickness to ensure even cooking.

- Let the chicken stand with the cumin and chili powder for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.

- Be sure to stir the rice, chicken, and vegetables constantly to prevent sticking and ensure even heating.

- Serve the Tex-Mex Paella immediately to enjoy it at its best.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Tex-Mex Paella with a side of guacamole, salsa, and sour cream for a complete Tex-Mex meal. You can also garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges for added flavor.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making a delicious Tex-Mex Paella is to cook the chicken and vegetables until they are tender-crisp and the rice is hot and fluffy. Be sure to stir constantly to prevent sticking and ensure even heating.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have all the ingredients on hand, you can make substitutions as needed. For example, you can use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, or tofu instead of chicken for a vegetarian option.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the Tex-Mex Paella ahead of time and reheat it before serving. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until hot.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Tex-Mex Paella in a large serving dish and garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges for a colorful and appetizing presentation. You can also sprinkle with extra cheese for added flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair the Tex-Mex Paella with a crisp white wine or a cold beer for a refreshing and satisfying meal. You can also serve with a side of tortilla chips and salsa for a complete Tex-Mex experience.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of the Tex-Mex Paella in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until hot before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Tex-Mex Paella contains approximately 400 calories, making it a satisfying and filling meal option.

Carbohydrates

The Tex-Mex Paella is a carbohydrate-rich dish due to the inclusion of rice, squash, and beer. Each serving contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

The Tex-Mex Paella contains healthy fats from olive oil, cheese, and chicken. Each serving contains approximately 15 grams of fat.

Proteins

The Tex-Mex Paella is a protein-rich dish due to the inclusion of chicken, eggs, and cheese. Each serving contains approximately 30 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

The Tex-Mex Paella is a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, and iron. These nutrients are essential for overall health and well-being.

Alergens

The Tex-Mex Paella contains dairy (cheese), eggs, and gluten (beer), so individuals with allergies to these ingredients should exercise caution when consuming this dish.

Summary

Overall, the Tex-Mex Paella is a well-balanced dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. It is a delicious and nutritious meal option for any occasion.

Summary

Tex-Mex Paella is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines the bold flavors of Tex-Mex cuisine with the traditional Spanish dish, paella. With its vibrant colors, rich flavors, and nutritious ingredients, this dish is sure to become a favorite for any occasion.

How did I get this recipe?

I have a strong memory of the first time I saw this recipe for Tex-Mex Paella. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my friend Maria in San Antonio, Texas. Maria had invited me over for a traditional Mexican dinner, and I was excited to try some new dishes.

As I walked into Maria's kitchen, I was immediately struck by the delicious smells coming from the stove. Maria greeted me with a warm hug and a smile, and she gestured towards a large paella dish bubbling away on the stove. "I hope you're hungry," she said with a twinkle in her eye.

I watched as Maria expertly added ingredients to the paella, a symphony of colors and flavors coming together in the pan. She explained to me that this was a Tex-Mex twist on the traditional Spanish dish, incorporating ingredients like chorizo, bell peppers, and cilantro for a deliciously unique flavor.

As I sat down at the table to taste the paella, I couldn't believe how amazing it was. The flavors were bold and vibrant, with just the right amount of spice from the chorizo. I asked Maria for the recipe, and she laughed and told me that it was a family secret, passed down through generations.

Determined to recreate the delicious dish at home, I begged Maria to teach me her recipe. She agreed, on the condition that I promised to keep it a secret and only share it with those I truly trusted. I eagerly agreed, and Maria began to show me the steps to making her Tex-Mex Paella.

First, she instructed me to heat olive oil in a large paella pan and sauté diced onions and garlic until they were soft and fragrant. Next, she added sliced chorizo and cooked it until it was browned and crispy, releasing its flavorful oils.

Then came the rice, which Maria explained was a crucial step in making a perfect paella. She used short-grain rice, which absorbed the flavors of the other ingredients and created a creamy texture. I watched as she added chicken broth, diced tomatoes, bell peppers, and a generous pinch of saffron, stirring everything together until the rice was tender and the liquid had been absorbed.

Finally, Maria added shrimp, mussels, and chicken pieces to the paella, arranging them in a beautiful pattern on top of the rice. She covered the pan and let the dish simmer until the seafood was cooked through and the flavors had melded together perfectly.

As we sat down to enjoy the finished paella, Maria poured us each a glass of sangria and toasted to our successful cooking adventure. The dish was even more delicious than I remembered, with each bite bursting with flavor and warmth.

I knew then that this recipe would become a treasured part of my own culinary repertoire. Over the years, I have made Maria's Tex-Mex Paella for countless family gatherings, dinner parties, and special occasions. Each time I prepare it, I am transported back to that sunny day in San Antonio, watching Maria work her magic in the kitchen.

As I sit here now, reflecting on the journey that led me to this beloved recipe, I am filled with gratitude for the friendships and experiences that have shaped my love of cooking. And I am reminded once again of the power of food to bring people together, to create memories, and to nourish both body and soul.

So if you ever find yourself in need of a delicious and comforting meal, look no further than my Tex-Mex Paella recipe. Just promise me that you'll keep it a secret, and only share it with those you truly trust. And remember, every dish tells a story - so savor every bite and cherish the memories that come with it. Bon appétit!