The southwest section of the Lone Star State borders the diverse and fascinating state of Louisiana. Many Texan dishes are closely related to the Creole and Cajun specialties of the bayou.
However, Texan chefs have modified the dishes to include local ingredients and often an extra smokey flavor. One example is jambalaya that features fresh shrimp straight from the Gulf of Mexico and an extra pinch of paprika for deeper and richer flavor.
Tex-Mex Influences
This style of cooking is easily the most popular and is what the state is known for across the globe. This type of food is a truly unique hybrid of Native American preparation, Mexican flavors and the traditions of the Spanish settlers. The Lone Star State was at various points a Mexican and even a Spanish territory, meaning there were heavy influences from both nations on what is today known as Texan fare.
Dishes like beef fajitas, chili con carne and enchiladas are some of the results. Almost all Tex-Mex dishes include either tortillas made from corn or flour, strips of beef, rice, refried beans and a plenty of cheese. This fusion cooking style has spread beyond the Texan borders and is now popular across the globe.
Texas Barbecue
Perhaps no single ingredient is more Texan than beef. Cattle has long been roaming the state and is now raised specifically for slaughter. Traditionally the Longhorn cattle were the steer of choice but tastier and leaner options like the Angus and Hereford cows are now the most popular.
The cowboy culture of the Lone Star State means that beef was a staple in chuck wagon culinary fare, cooked in pots with beans or directly over the flame of an open fire. Most Texan barbecues today feature tougher cuts of meat cooked for hours until they are unbelievably tender and falling off the bone. The barbecue sauces served alongside the smoked meats are often tangier than the sweeter varieties found in other states.
German Culinary Tradition
Many people are surprised to learn about the heavy German influence on Texan foods. Towns like Fredericksburg and New Braunsfels show the obvious German heritage in many parts of the state.
One of the most popular meals in the state is the chicken fried steak, or tender beef that has been marinated, battered and fried like chicken. This meal was likely a direct reproduction of the popular German dish wienerschnitzel. Many Texan towns still serve up European classics like schnitzel, bratwurst and beer in German restaurants.
A Fascinating Destination for Tourists
The Lone Star State of Texas is a remarkable, colorful and exciting destination in the United States. While the major cities of Austin, Dallas and Houston may get the majority of the attention, there is a lot more to the state than just the largest urban areas.
The Lone Star State is home to countless historical landmarks like the Alamo, beautiful beaches along the Gulf of Mexico and exciting recreational opportunities. As the second largest state in the nation with a square area larger than that of France, it boasts a number of varied communities and a diverse culinary heritage. The food you taste in El Paso might will likely be quite different from the capital fare found in Austin.
