You Have To Try These Iconic Texas Foods At Least Once

Beef brisket is a tender, smoky cut of meat whose appeal lies not only in its mouthwatering flavor, but also in the communal experience it represents.

Families, friends, and communities gather around smokers, waiting for the brisket to reach perfection. Traditional Texas brisket is seasoned simply with salt and pepper.

The state's official dish since 1977, chili con carne is all about the meat — no beans allowed. Purists believe they dilute the flavor and distract from the beef.

Texas chili focuses on heaping portions of meat (typically tougher, highly marbled cuts) along with a mix of spices. Tomatoes or tomato paste often show up, as well as chiles.

Named after the largest ranch in the U.S., this dish is basically a Tex-Mex lasagna with corn tortillas, shredded chicken, a rich sauce, and plenty of cheese.

The sauce typically combines canned cream of mushroom and cream of chicken soups, Ro-Tel tomatoes, and a dash of chili powder for that classic Tex-Mex kick.

Despite its name, this dish consists of a tenderized beef steak (usually cuts like cube steak) that's floured or battered and fried to crispy, golden perfection.

It is usually smothered in creamy, peppery white gravy and often served with mashed potatoes or buttery biscuits (green beans or corn if you want to risk switching things up).

Texas breakfast tacos feature a warm tortilla packed with scrambled eggs, cheese, and toppings such as bacon, chorizo, sautéed veggies, avocado, or refried beans.

Top them off with a sprinkle of cheese, a dollop of salsa, and maybe a dash of hot sauce, and you've got a breakfast that packs a punch all in one neat, portable package.