They say everything is bigger in Texas, and when it comes to food, it fits the bill as well. Not only does Texas food come in large portions, but it also comes in big, bold flavors. Whether you live in the Texas area or plan on visiting, below are four foods that are must-orders in the state of Texas.
Tex-Mex Cuisine
The first choice is no surprise as Texas puts the Tex in Tex-Mex cuisine. A blend of the unique culture of Texas settlers combined with the Spanish and Mexican influence of their neighbors to the south gives the Tex-Mex cuisine its unique flavors. This salty cuisine differs from your traditional Mexican dishes in the fact that it focuses on more cheese and more beef in the dishes. You can get excellent Tex-Mex cuisine in any part of Texas, but the restaurants in the San Antonio area are thought by many residents to be the ones who do it best.
Barbecue
Just like other parts of the South, Texas knows how to do barbecue. Not only do they have some of the best and freshest cuts of meat courtesy of local ranches, but they also have some unique barbecue sauce and rub recipes that have been passed down through the generations. The secret to good Texas barbecue is cooking it slowly and not rushing the process. One of the favorite barbecue places in the state is Salt Lick BBQ located in Round Rock.
Chili
If you live in Texas, or even if you have just paid a few visits, there is a good chance you might have seen or even participated in one of the state’s infamous chili cook-offs. Chili connoisseurs can taste everything from mild chili to five-alarm options that only the brave will attempt. Texas chili had a unique start as it became a favorite staple of poorer San Antonio families who had to make scraps of meat taste more appetizing, and they definitely succeeded. You may find chili in Texas a little different from other states as Texas chili often lacks beans, has extra peppers and beef, and is topped off with some grated cheese. You can find a variety of chili options by checking out one of the area’s many chili cook-offs, or if you are in the Fort Worth area, stop into Fred’s Texas Cafe for a bowl.
Chicken Fried Steak
While the name may be a little confusing to those who are not familiar with this dish, there is entirely no chicken used in its preparation. The name comes from the fact that the steak is prepared just like chicken would be when it is about to be fried. The secret to good chicken fried steak in Texas is that fact that the steak is fantastic due to the amount of cattle ranchers in the area. If you are looking for a good chicken fried steak that is done up big like the state of Texas, you can stop into Lulu’s Bakery and Cafe in the San Antonio area.
Try a taste of Texas by checking out one of the four choices above that Texas does best.
Photo via Pixabay
January 4