Anyone who has been to Texas knows that there is no shortage of amazing food. When some people think about Texas foods, the first things that come to mind are the large and sometimes surprising variety of fried foods at the Texas State Fair or the never-ending supply of tacos and barbecue. However, you may not know that you can thank Texas for some of these other all-time favorites.
1. Blue Bell Ice Cream
Blue Bell Creameries was founded in Brenham, Texas in 1907. Blue Bell Ice Cream is an American classic—the perfect ice cream for making ice cream sundaes. It is creamy, delicious, and the perfect treat to satisfy your sweet tooth. With such a wide variety of flavors, you can’t go wrong.
2. Frozen Margaritas
The world’s first frozen margarita machine was founded in Dallas, Texas in 1971. A margarita is always a yes, but who can resist a margarita that has been turned into an adult slushy? A frozen margarita is the perfect way to cool down during the outrageously hot days of a Texan summer.
3. Whataburger
The first Whataburger opened in Corpus Christi, Texas in 1950. If you’ve spent time in Texas, you’ve inevitably done that 1 am run to Whataburger just to get that glorious Honey Butter Chicken Biscuit. What’s a Texan without Whataburger?
4. Queso
If you’re from Texas, you’re most likely a queso connoisseur. There is evidence of queso appearing in Texas restaurants as early as 1910. Although it has been disputed that queso is actually from Arkansas, any Texan will claim this cheesy deliciousness to be their own.
5. Dr Pepper
Dr Pepper was invented in Waco, Texas in 1885. Who can resist this refreshing beverage on a hot day? If you want to learn more about this competitor to Coca Cola, just head over to the Dr Pepper Museum in Waco.
6. Frito Pie
Texas goes back and forth with New Mexico about being the creator of Frito pie, but the story is that the mother of Fritos inventor, Charles Doolin, started making Frito pie in the 1930s. I 10/10 would recommend this combination of Fritos with chili, cheese, and onions, a delightful savory and crunchy snack.
7. Sweet Tea
Unknown to many, the first sweet tea recipe was published in the cookbook, Housekeeping in Old Virginia, in 1879 by a Texas native. This refreshing beverage is a Southern staple that many people cannot live without. Sweet tea always trumps unsweet tea.
8. Chili Con Carne
Chili con carne is the official dish of the state of Texas. Beginning in the 1880’s, chili stands became popular in San Antonio, Texas. Creating the perfect bowl of chili has become an art that takes years to perfect. This Texas creation is the perfect meal to enjoy on chilly winter days.
9. Pecan Pie
The first recipes of pecan pie appeared in Texas cookbooks in the 1870’s and 1880’s. You can thank Texas for this American holiday classic. What would Thanksgiving be without pecan pie?
Thank you Texas for these incredible foods that we all could not live without. You truly make the world and our stomachs a happier place.