After settling into our new home, I was eager to start hosting dinners again. Once my kitchen felt broken in, I set a date and invited friends over. They know the routine: they arrive hungry and often leave with containers of leftovers. To simplify planning and set the mood, I chose a theme for the evening. With inspiration from Rice Select’s Texmati rice and a few Southern-style ingredients and hot sauces from Glory Foods, I put together a Southern-inspired Sunday dinner that showcased Texmati as the perfect accompaniment.
Texmati is a well-known aromatic rice in the United States that blends the fragrant qualities of basmati with the familiar texture of American long-grain rice. It has a popcorn-like aroma and a pleasant nutty flavor. When cooked, the grains expand and remain separate and fluffy, making it excellent as a simple side or as a base for dishes that benefit from a fragrant, light-textured rice. Texmati is also available certified as 100% U.S. organically grown.
With Texmati as the centerpiece, I composed the following Southern-inspired menu for our Sunday gathering.
A hearty combination of shrimp, tender chicken and smoky Andouille sausage makes this gumbo a Southern classic. Served over Texmati rice, it soaks up the rich, savory broth and balances the spices beautifully.
Fried chicken is a family favorite and pairs naturally with rice. This Cajun-style version gets a spicy lift from hot sauce and a crisp, well-seasoned coating that stays juicy inside.
No Southern meal is complete without cornbread. These golden muffins are studded with green chiles, crisp bacon and sharp cheddar for a savory, flavorful side that complements the main dishes.
For dessert, a seasonal apple cake finished with a buttery praline caramel sauce and a generous scoop of vanilla bean ice cream provided a sweet, comforting finale.
This post was created with product inspiration from Glory Foods and Rice Select.
As part of a tastemaker program, I received product and support to create this meal. Sponsored posts reflect my own editorial perspective.