9 easily available substitute for Rotel tomatoes

Rotel tomatoes are a kind of canned tomatoes. The brand name for canned diced tomatoes and diced chilies is Rotel. It’s a primary ingredient in soups, sauces, queso, and casseroles

Using rotel is a simple way to boost the flavor of recipes that call for diced tomatoes. Making your own Rotel tomatoes is more superficial and healthier than buying canned. 

So, do you love the taste of Rotel tomatoes but don’t always have them on hand? Have no fear; there are several substitutes for Rotel tomatoes like Salsa, diced tomatoes, canned tomatoes, canned green chilies, and more. 

The substitutes can make your dish the same and still give you that delicious, zesty flavor. You can find these in the grocery store next to the other canned tomatoes. Let’s look for the substitute for Rotel tomatoes.

What are Rotel tomatoes?

Rotel tomatoes are a type of canned tomato that is used in many dishes. They are usually diced or whole and can be found in most grocery stores.

Rotel tomatoes ingredients

Rotel tomato’s ingredients are just as simple: fresh tomatoes, diced green chilies, and garlic, all cooked down into a smooth sauce. The result is a zesty, flavorful salsa perfect for chips or use as a condiment.

This Salsa is super easy to make and only requires a few ingredients. 

Substitute for Rotel tomatoes 

1. Substitute salsa for Rotel tomatoes

Salsa is made of tomatoes, onion, chili peppers, and cilantro. If you desire more spice in your dish, try substituting Salsa for the Rotel tomatoes. This will give the dish a zestier flavor and a bit more of a kick. 

Just be sure to adjust the amount of other spices accordingly. Otherwise, you may finish up with a dish that’s too spicy for your taste.

Salsa is not only a great way to add flavor to your food, but it’s also a healthy option. It’s low in calories and fat and packed with vitamins and antioxidants

salsa are great substitute for rotel tomatoes

You can use Salsa in all dishes, like this chicken and salsa skillet recipe. 

2. Substitute diced tomatoes for rotel

Diced Tomatoes are another good substitution for Rotel but they will not be as smooth as the sauce made with Rotel. 

If you are searching for a smoother sauce, you may consider using tomato puree instead of diced tomatoes.

If you still want to substitute diced tomatoes for Rotel, you will need to use about 2 and 1/2 cups of diced tomatoes. This will give you the same amount of acidity and spice you would get from Rotel.

Read More- Whats the difference between Tomato Puree VS Crushed Tomatoes

3. canned diced tomatoes

You can substitute canned diced tomatoes for Rotel tomatoes in many recipes. 

I have mentioned one of my favorite recipes below. Go through it and try it once. 

You can use canned diced tomatoes in this recipe, but I prefer to use fresh diced tomatoes. If you use canned, remember to drain them before adding them to the skillet.

This recipe is for a basic shrimp scampi. 

If you want to, you can add other ingredients to the dish, such as mushrooms, onions, or peppers. Just saute them in the butter before adding the shrimp. You can also add some white wine to the dish if you like.

This dish is pleasingly served immediately after it is made. However, it will stay warm in a skillet on the stovetop for up to 30 minutes.

If you need to reheat it, just add a little water to the skillet and heat over low heat until warm.

4. Canned green chilies

Canned green chilies are a convenient option for those who do not want to deal with the hassle of fresh chilies. They add a similar level of acidity and sweetness but with a little extra spice.

However, it is important to remember that they are typically much hotter than tomatoes, so you may need to adjust the number of other spices in the recipe accordingly. 

Chilies can be a great substitute for tomatoes in many dishes, including chili and Salsa. You could also add them to omelets, quesadillas, or even nachos.

If you are looking to substitute canned green chilis for Rotel, I recommend using 1/2 the amount called for in the recipe.

When shopping for canned green chilis, look for a brand packed in water or vinegar without added preservatives.

5. Tomato puree

Tomato puree is a smooth, thick liquid made from cooked tomatoes until they are soft and then pouring them in a food processor or blender. Simply use one can of tomato puree for every two cans of Rotel.

This substitution will work in most recipes, though the finished dish may be slightly less thick and have a more intense tomato flavor. 

It is a good choice for dishes that require long cooking times, as it will break down and release its flavors more quickly than fresh tomatoes. Tomato puree can also add body and richness to soups and sauces.

When choosing a commercially prepared tomato puree, look for one that is thick and has no added water or other ingredients.

6. Lemon Pickle

Lemon Pickle is a delicious and tangy condiment popular in Indian cuisine. It is made by preserving lemons in a mixture of spices and salt. 

Lemon pickle is a great way to add some extra zing to your cooking. You will also need to consider that the lemon pickle will have a much stronger flavor than the Rotel tomatoes. 

Lemon pickles can flavor curries, rice dishes, and even sandwiches. It can also be utilized to spread over a sandwich or even eaten straight from the jar!

7. Tomato Ketchup – best for soup & Stew

To make a substitution for Rotel tomatoes, you can use tomato ketchup. Simply follow the recipe as usual, but swap out the Rotel tomatoes for an equal amount of ketchup. 

This will give your dish a little different flavor, but it will still be delicious. Next time you’re in the mood for something different, give it a try.

To use tomato ketchup, take the same amount of tomato ketchup and add water to it until it reaches the consistency of rotel. Then, add this mixture to your dish in place of the rotel.

to make a replacement for rotel tomatoes you can use tomato ketchup

When substituting tomato ketchup for Rotel tomatoes, it is important to keep the following in mind, and you will be sure to create a delicious dish that everyone will love.

-The ketchup will add sweetness to your dish, so you may want to adjust the other ingredients accordingly.

-Ketchup is also thinner than rotel, so you may need to cook your dish for a longer period.

-The ketchup flavor is not as intense as rotel, so your dish may not be as flavorful.

8. Texan Picante sauce- Best For Tacos

Picante sauce is made from chili peppers, tomatoes, and other ingredients. The peppers are combined with tomatoes, onions, garlic, and other spices to create a fiery sauce. 

It is typically utilized as a condiment or ingredient in Mexican and Tex-Mex dishes. Use an equal amount of Picante sauce in place of the Rotel tomatoes called for in the recipe. 

How to make Rotel tomatoes At Home

To make Rotel tomatoes, all you need is: 

Ingredients:

  • 1 can diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 can whole tomatoes, undrained
  • 1/2 onion, chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped
  • 1-2 jalapeño peppers, seeded and chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. In a large saucepan, mix the tomatoes, onion, bell pepper, jalapeño peppers, garlic, cilantro, lime juice, sugar, cumin, salt, and black pepper.

2. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes.

3. Operate an immersion blender (or transfer to a regular blender) to puree the soup until it reaches your desired consistency.

4. Serve hot and garnished with additional cilantro if desired. Enjoy!

It should be refrigerated for about 1 week.

Rotel vS diced tomatoes

When it comes to canned tomatoes, there are two main types: whole peeled tomatoes and diced tomatoes. While both of these products can be used in various ways, you should be aware of some key differences between them.

Whole peeled tomatoes are precisely what they sound like – whole tomatoes that have been peeled and canned. These tomatoes are typically packed in juice or tomato puree.

They can be utilized in a combination of recipes. Because they are packed in juice, whole peeled tomatoes are more flavorful than diced tomatoes.

On the other hand, diced tomatoes are typically packed in juice or tomato puree, but they can also be packed in water. Unlike whole peeled tomatoes, diced tomatoes do not have as much flavor. 

However, they can be a good option if you are looking for a product that is less expensive or easier to find.

Rotel and diced tomatoes are canned tomatoes but have different consistencies. 

Rotel is a brand of diced tomatoes made with peppers and spices, while diced tomatoes are just regular, plain tomatoes. They have their uses, but I prefer diced tomatoes for most things because they’re a little more versatile.

I like to use Rotel for chili and Salsa because of the added peppers and spices, but diced tomatoes are my go-to for pasta sauce and soup

They’re just a little more versatile, in my opinion. Plus, they’re usually a bit cheaper than Rotel.

So, pick up a can of Rotel and diced tomatoes next time you’re at the grocery store. You’ll be glad you have them both on hand and try in a recipe that calls for it!

FAQs

Can I use Salsa instead of Rotel?

Yes, you can use Salsa instead of Rotel. Salsa is a sauce made from tomatoes, onions, chili peppers, and other ingredients. It is frequently used as a condiment or dipping sauce.

Can you substitute Rotel for diced tomatoes in chili?

Yes, you can substitute Rotel for diced tomatoes in chili. The flavor will be a little different, but it will still be delicious!

Can you substitute Rotel for fire-roasted tomatoes?

Yes, you can substitute Rotel for fire-roasted tomatoes. Rotel is a canned diced tomato with a green chilies brand. It can be located in the Hispanic section of most supermarkets.
Some people may prefer the taste of rotel, while others might find fire-roasted tomatoes a better option. Yet, it is up to the person to decide which ingredient they prefer in their dish.

Can You Freeze Rotel?

Yes, you can freeze Rotel. To do so, place the Rotel in a freezer-safe container and store it in the freezer for up to two months. 
When ready to use the Rotel, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, use the Rotel within two days.

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