Texan cuisine is a blend of Southern, Mexican, and Tex-Mex influences. Here are five must-try Texas foods: chilli con carne, a spicy stew made with beef, chilli peppers, beans, and spices; barbecue, featuring slow-cooked meat like brisket, ribs, and sausage; breakfast tacos, kolaches, and chicken-fried steak.
Fajitas
Fajitas are a Tex-Mex classic made with grilled meat, peppers, and onions, and served with tortillas. This dish originated in the Rio Grande Valley, where cowboys would cook meat over an open flame and wrap it in tortillas for a quick and easy meal. Today, pollo con tajadas are a popular dish in Texas and can be found on many restaurant menus.
Tex-Mex cuisine is a delicious and unique blend of Mexican and Texan flavours. With dishes like chilli con carne and fajitas, it’s no wonder why this cuisine has become so popular in the Lone Star State.
Corn Dogs
Corn dogs are a classic State Fair food item. They are made by dipping a hot dog into cornmeal batter and deep-frying it until golden brown. The result is a crispy, savoury, and slightly sweet treat that is perfect for snacking on while walking around the fairgrounds. Corn dogs are often served with ketchup or mustard, but some vendors offer creative toppings like cheese or chilli.
Fried Snickers
Fried Snickers is another popular State Fair food item. It is made by dipping a Snickers candy bar into the batter and deep-frying it until it is crispy and golden brown. The result is a warm, gooey, and chocolatey treat that is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. Fried Snickers is often served with powdered sugar or chocolate syrup.
Pecan Pie
Pecan Pie is a sweet and nutty dessert that is a Southern staple. It is made with a buttery pastry crust and filled with a mixture of pecans, sugar, corn syrup, and eggs. The pie is then baked until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown. Pecan pie is often served with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Texas Toothpicks
Texas Toothpicks are a popular Tex-Mex appetizer made by deep-frying thin strips of jalapeño peppers and onions coated in a batter made of flour, cornmeal, salt, pepper, and water. They are served with a dipping sauce such as ranch or sour cream and are perfect for sharing with friends and family.
Gulf Coast Shrimp
Gulf Coast shrimp is a delicacy that has been enjoyed by Texans for generations. These succulent crustaceans are harvested from the Gulf of Mexico and are known for their sweet, tender meat. Gulf Coast shrimp can be prepared in a variety of ways, including boiled, fried, grilled, or sautéed. One popular dish is a shrimp cocktail, which consists of boiled shrimp served with a tangy cocktail sauce. Another classic dish is shrimp and grits, which pairs sautéed shrimp with creamy grits.
Blackened Redfish
Blackened redfish is a Cajun-inspired dish that has become a Texas favourite. This flavorful dish features a redfish fillet coated in a blend of spices, including paprika, cayenne pepper, and black pepper. The fillet is then seared in a hot cast-iron skillet, creating a blackened crust that adds depth and flavour to the fish.
Conclusion
Texas is known for its bold and delicious cuisine, including must-try dishes such as breakfast tacos filled with eggs, cheese, and your choice of bacon, sausage, or chorizo. Brisket, a popular slow-cooked beef dish served with sides, is a staple at Texas BBQ joints. For those with a sweet tooth, try pecan pie or banana pudding.
