Articles, Recipes, Seafood

Texas Hash

 

Texas Hash One-Skillet Ground Beef and Rice

Ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 cup diced onion
  • 1 cup diced green bell pepper
  • 1 tablespoon minced fresh garlic
  • 1 pound ground beef (80/20)
  • 1/2 teaspoon dry mustard
  • 2 teaspoons chili powder
  • 2 teaspoons kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/2 cup uncooked long grain white rice
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes with juice
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

Directions:

  1. Heat and Sauté:
    • In a large skillet with a lid, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add diced onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté until vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
  2. Brown the Beef:
    • Add ground beef to the skillet along with dry mustard, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook, breaking up the beef with a spoon, until it is browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess grease.
  3. Add Rice and Tomatoes:
    • Stir in the uncooked rice and cook for 2 minutes, allowing it to lightly toast. Add tomato paste and cook for another minute, stirring to combine with the meat and vegetables.
  4. Simmer:
    • Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice, water, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir well to combine all ingredients. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
  5. Cover and Cook:
    • Cover the skillet with a lid, reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer for 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  6. Finish and Serve:
    • If desired, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the skillet during the last few minutes of cooking. Cover the skillet again until the cheese is melted.
    • Check the consistency of the dish before serving. If it’s too wet, cook uncovered for a few additional minutes to evaporate any excess liquid.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

  • Estimated Calories: 510
  • Servings: 4

Notes:

  • Texas Hash is a versatile dish that can be customized to your taste. You can add more spices or adjust the heat level with additional chili powder or a dash of hot sauce.
  • Serve this hearty skillet meal with a side of cornbread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. Enjoy the flavors of Texas with this comforting and satisfying dish!

Here are some tips to make your Texas Hash even more delightful:

  1. Use Quality Ground Beef: Opt for ground beef with a higher fat content (like 80/20) for juicier and more flavorful results. Browning the beef well enhances the overall depth of flavor in the dish.
  2. Customize Spices: Adjust the spices to suit your preference. You can increase the chili powder for more heat, add cumin for a smoky flavor, or include paprika for extra depth.
  3. Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh garlic and fresh bell peppers for the best flavor. They add a vibrant and aromatic base to the dish.
  4. Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese. While cheddar is traditional, you can try Monterey Jack, pepper jack for a spicy kick, or a blend of cheeses for added richness.
  5. Add Beans: For a heartier dish, consider adding a can of drained and rinsed black beans or kidney beans during the simmering stage. This adds protein and texture.
  6. Vegetable Variations: Feel free to mix in other vegetables like corn kernels, diced zucchini, or even chopped spinach for added nutrients and color.
  7. Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro or parsley just before serving to add brightness and freshness.
  8. Cooking Rice Perfectly: Ensure the rice is cooked just right. Check it towards the end of the simmering time and if needed, cook for a few more minutes with the lid off to absorb any excess liquid.
  9. Serve with Accompaniments: Serve Texas Hash with warm tortillas, cornbread, or a side of guacamole and sour cream to complement the flavors.
  10. Make Ahead: This dish reheats well, so consider making a double batch for leftovers or meal prepping for the week.

By incorporating these tips, you can elevate your Texas Hash to be even more flavorful and enjoyable for your family and guests.

Achieving the perfect Texas Hash involves attention to detail and some key techniques. Here are the secrets, broken down into different aspects of cooking Texas Hash:

Preparation

  1. Prep Ingredients First: Dice onions, bell peppers, and garlic uniformly to ensure even cooking and distribution of flavors.
  2. Toast Rice: Before adding liquids, toast the rice in the skillet for a couple of minutes with the vegetables and spices. This enhances its nutty flavor.
  3. Choose the Right Rice: Opt for long grain white rice for its fluffy texture and ability to absorb flavors well.
  4. Quality Ground Beef: Use fresh, high-quality ground beef with a good fat content (like 80/20) for juiciness and flavor.

Seasoning

  1. Layer Spices: Add dry mustard, chili powder, salt, and pepper directly to the beef while browning to infuse it with flavor from the start.
  2. Adjust Heat Level: Customize the spiciness by adjusting the amount of chili powder or adding a pinch of cayenne pepper if desired.
  3. Balance Flavors: Incorporate Worcestershire sauce for umami depth and tomato paste for richness and tanginess.

Cooking Techniques

  1. Brown Beef Well: Ensure the ground beef is fully browned before adding other ingredients to develop depth of flavor.
  2. Simmer Gently: Once liquids are added, simmer covered over low heat to allow rice to absorb flavors without becoming mushy.
  3. Stir Occasionally: Stir occasionally during simmering to prevent rice from sticking to the bottom and ensure even cooking.

Enhancements

  1. Add Beans: For variation and added protein, consider mixing in a can of drained black beans or kidney beans.
  2. Cheese on Top: If using cheese, sprinkle it on top during the last few minutes of cooking and cover to melt it evenly.
  3. Fresh Herbs: Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley to brighten flavors before serving.

Serving and Presentation

  1. Accompaniments: Serve with warm tortillas, cornbread, or a side of avocado slices and sour cream for a complete meal.
  2. Check Consistency: Adjust the final consistency by cooking uncovered for a few additional minutes if it’s too wet.

Tips for Perfect Results

  1. Quality Skillet: Use a skillet with a tight-fitting lid to ensure even cooking and proper heat retention.
  2. Timing: Keep an eye on the cooking time for the rice to avoid overcooking or undercooking it.
  3. Rest Before Serving: Let the dish rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow flavors to meld together.
  4. Double Batch: Consider making a larger batch for leftovers; flavors often improve after a day.

Flavor Variations

  1. Spicy Twist: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick.
  2. Sweet Heat: Mix in a tablespoon of brown sugar for a hint of sweetness to balance the spices.

Storage and Reheating

  1. Proper Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  2. Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water to prevent drying out.

Advanced Techniques

  1. Slow Cooker Variation: Adapt the recipe for a slow cooker for convenience and deeper flavors over several hours.
  2. Oven-Baked Method: Bake covered in the oven for a slightly different texture and flavor infusion.

Ingredient Substitutions

  1. Ground Turkey: Swap ground beef for ground turkey for a leaner option with a different flavor profile.
  2. Quinoa Instead of Rice: Use quinoa instead of rice for a higher protein and gluten-free alternative.

Dietary Adjustments

  1. Vegetarian Version: Omit the meat and increase beans or add tofu for a protein-rich vegetarian option.
  2. Low-Carb Twist: Substitute cauliflower rice for white rice to reduce carbohydrates.

Flavor Enhancements

  1. Smoked Paprika: Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika for a smoky undertone.
  2. Bay Leaf: Include a bay leaf during simmering for added depth of flavor (remember to remove before serving).

Serving Suggestions

  1. Fresh Salsa: Serve with a spoonful of fresh salsa on top for brightness and acidity.
  2. Pickled Jalapeños: Add a few slices of pickled jalapeños for tang and heat.

Cooking Techniques

  1. Cover While Simmering: Cover the skillet to keep moisture in and cook the rice evenly.
  2. Stir Frequently: Stir the ingredients regularly to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

Here are 40 popular questions and answers related to Texas Hash:

  1. What is Texas Hash?
    • Texas Hash is a one-skillet dish typically made with ground beef, rice, tomatoes, and various seasonings, cooked together until the rice is tender.
  2. Why is it called Texas Hash?
    • The dish likely originated in Texas, hence the name. It’s a hearty and flavorful meal popular in Southern cuisine.
  3. Is Texas Hash spicy?
    • The spiciness can be adjusted to taste by varying the amount of chili powder or adding other spices like cayenne pepper.
  4. Can Texas Hash be made ahead of time?
    • Yes, Texas Hash can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator. It reheats well on the stovetop or in the microwave.
  5. What can I serve with Texas Hash?
    • Texas Hash pairs well with cornbread, tortillas, a side salad, or steamed vegetables.
  6. Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
    • Yes, ground turkey can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef in Texas Hash.
  7. How do I make Texas Hash vegetarian?
    • To make a vegetarian version, omit the ground beef and add extra vegetables or beans like black beans or kidney beans.
  8. What kind of rice should I use for Texas Hash?
    • Long grain white rice works best for Texas Hash as it cooks evenly and absorbs flavors well.
  9. How do you make Texas Hash less spicy?
    • To make it less spicy, reduce the amount of chili powder or omit cayenne pepper if included.
  10. Can I freeze Texas Hash?
    • Yes, Texas Hash can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
  11. What’s the difference between Texas Hash and chili?
    • Texas Hash typically includes rice and is more of a skillet meal, whereas chili is a thicker stew-like dish made primarily with meat, beans, and chili peppers.
  12. Can I add cheese to Texas Hash?
    • Yes, shredded cheese like cheddar can be sprinkled over Texas Hash during the last few minutes of cooking and melted on top.
  13. How do I store leftovers of Texas Hash?
    • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  14. Can Texas Hash be made in a slow cooker?
    • Yes, you can adapt Texas Hash for a slow cooker. Brown the meat and sauté the vegetables first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours.
  15. Is Texas Hash gluten-free?
    • Yes, Texas Hash is naturally gluten-free if you use gluten-free ingredients such as rice and ensure the seasonings are gluten-free.
  16. What vegetables can I add to Texas Hash?
    • Common vegetables to add include diced bell peppers, onions, corn, zucchini, or spinach.
  17. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
    • Yes, but note that brown rice will require longer cooking time and may absorb more liquid than white rice.
  18. How do I adjust the consistency of Texas Hash if it’s too watery?
    • Cook uncovered for a few more minutes to allow excess liquid to evaporate and thicken.
  19. Can I use diced fresh tomatoes instead of canned tomatoes?
    • Yes, you can use diced fresh tomatoes, but you may need to add a little extra liquid as canned tomatoes usually come with juices.
  20. What’s the best skillet to use for making Texas Hash?
    • A large skillet with a tight-fitting lid works best to cook Texas Hash evenly and keep moisture in during simmering.
  21. How do I make Texas Hash with a smoky flavor?
    • Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a dash of liquid smoke to the dish for a smoky undertone.
  22. Is Texas Hash a healthy meal?
    • Texas Hash can be nutritious, especially if you use lean ground beef or turkey and add plenty of vegetables.
  23. Can I add beans to Texas Hash?
    • Yes, adding drained and rinsed beans like black beans or kidney beans can enhance the protein and texture of Texas Hash.
  24. How do I prevent the rice from sticking to the skillet?
    • Stir the rice frequently while toasting it initially, and make sure to stir occasionally while simmering with the lid on.
  25. Can I make Texas Hash with ground chicken?
    • Yes, ground chicken can be used instead of ground beef or turkey for a lighter option.
  26. What’s the best way to reheat Texas Hash?
    • Reheat Texas Hash gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water to loosen it up if needed.
  27. How can I make Texas Hash with a Tex-Mex twist?
    • Add ingredients like diced green chilies, a pinch of cumin, and garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges.
  28. Can I use quinoa instead of rice?
    • Yes, quinoa can be used as a substitute for rice in Texas Hash. Adjust the cooking time and liquid accordingly.
  29. How do I know when the rice in Texas Hash is done cooking?
    • The rice should be tender and have absorbed most of the liquid when it’s done cooking.
  30. Can Texas Hash be made in an Instant Pot?
    • Yes, you can adapt Texas Hash for an Instant Pot. Use the sauté function to brown the meat and vegetables, then pressure cook for 8-10 minutes with a natural release.
  31. What’s a good side dish to serve with Texas Hash for a party?
    • Serve Texas Hash with tortilla chips, guacamole, salsa, and a fresh fruit salad for a festive spread.
  32. How do I make Texas Hash with a Mediterranean twist?
    • Add ingredients like diced olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and a sprinkle of feta cheese before serving.
  33. Can I add extra vegetables to Texas Hash?
    • Yes, you can add a variety of vegetables such as diced carrots, celery, or even diced sweet potatoes for added flavor and nutrition.
  34. How do I make Texas Hash with a keto-friendly twist?
    • Substitute the rice with cauliflower rice and ensure all ingredients are low-carb and keto-friendly.
  35. Can I make Texas Hash with ground pork?
    • Yes, ground pork can be used instead of ground beef for a different flavor profile.
  36. How do I make Texas Hash with a Hawaiian twist?
    • Add ingredients like diced pineapple, bell peppers, and a touch of soy sauce or teriyaki sauce for a sweet and savory twist.
  37. What’s a good dessert to serve after Texas Hash?
    • Serve a classic Southern dessert like peach cobbler or banana pudding for a sweet ending.
  38. Can I add a can of diced green chilies to Texas Hash?
    • Yes, diced green chilies can add a mild spice and extra flavor to Texas Hash. Drain them before adding if you prefer less liquid.
  39. How can I make Texas Hash with a Cajun flair?
    • Add Cajun seasoning blend, diced andouille sausage, and a splash of hot sauce for a spicy Louisiana-inspired dish.

  40. Can I make Texas Hash in a cast iron skillet?

    • Yes, a cast iron skillet works well for making Texas Hash. Ensure it’s well-seasoned and adjust cooking times as needed.