Lifestyle

7 Stellar Foods That the Lone Star State Does Best

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Tony Maples Photography

 

We all know that everything’s bigger in Texas. But when it comes to eating, everything is better here too. Blame it on our rich cultural history, or just our Southern country flair – whatever the reason, Texans know good food! While some states are famous for a particular food, like Idaho potatoes or Georgia peaches, Texas has managed to corner the market on so many delicious eats, that it’s hard not to brag! Here are 7 foods that nobody does better than Texas:

1. Pecan Pie

pecan pie

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The pecan tree is the official state tree of Texas, and it’s no wonder, as pecan trees make up a large part of Texas’s diverse landscape. Families have been making pecan pie for generations, and it has become a sweet and delicious Texas staple.

2. Brisket

brisket

Photo: Pinterest/TheFoodieAffair

Slow-roasted smoked brisket puts Texas in the running for best barbecue in the country. There is no better way to satisfy a hearty appetite than with a plate of Texas brisket. While the debate is sometimes heated over who serves the best brisket in the state, Texans are lucky enough to have plenty of options!

3. Chili

chili

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Chili con carne has been the state dish of Texas since 1977. Whether or not to add beans has been debated ever since. However you like it, Texas chili is a favorite comfort food and the subject of many cook-offs throughout the Lonestar State!

4. Kolaches

kolaches

Photo: Pinterest/Just A Pinch Recipes

This Czech pastry is a popular breakfast item across Texas and comes in many forms. From the traditional light pastry with a dollop of cheese or fruit to the grab-and-go sausage and jalapeno soft buns now sold across Texas, out-of-staters may look twice when you offer up a kolache, but we Texans know just how delicious they are.

5. Burgers

burger

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While the origin of the hamburger is up for debate, one Texas historian has traced it back to Athens, Texas in the late 1800s. Since then, restaurants and diners across the country have claimed to serve the best burger. With places like Coyote Bluff Café in Amarillo, and Mel’s Country Café in Tomball, Texas is not lacking in delicious burger options. Let’s not forget that Texas-based fast-food chain Whataburger was recently named #1 in the country as well!

6. Breakfast Tacos

taco

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Texans loves tacos, so why not eat them for every meal of the day?! Tex-Mex has become an honorary American food group, and breakfast tacos are a big part of that love! Whether stuffed with bean and cheese, chorizo, potato and egg, or any other combination of goodness, Texas is all about tacos – even in the a.m.!

7. Beer

beer barrel

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Okay, okay, beer isn’t technically a food, but one can’t ignore the ever-growing craft beer market in Texas. Taking a cue from historically Texan beers like Shiner and Lone Star, today’s brewers are incorporating Texas themes and flavors into their products. Breweries like Real Ale Brewing Co. in Blanco and Live Oak Brewing Company in Austin are creating buzz on a national level.