Fair food is serious business in Texas, and expectations run high when it comes to the creativity and taste of concession cuisine.
Although the State Fair of Texas opening day is not until September 30, the countdown has begun with the release of the not-to-miss foods for the 2016 season. The fair has already released the final dishes in the 12th Annual Big Tex Choice Awards.
There were more than 55 entries to choose from this year, and only eight were selected to go up against the panel of judges who will determine ultimate fair food supremacy.
The State Fair of Texas takes place in Dallas every year at the acclaimed Fair Park and lasts longer than any other state fair in the United States. Last year was a record year with over 10 million tickets sold and this year is certain not to disappoint.
Prepare yourself, these are the top eight dishes you will absolutely or not at all want to seek out while at the fair this year.
Mariah Tyler is a digital photo editor at Travel + Leisure. You can follow her on Instagram and Twitter at @mphbox.
State Fair Cookie Fries
Fried Jell-O®
Injectable Great Balls of BBQ
Caribbean Pineapple Korn-a-copia
Deep Fried Bacon Burger Dog Slider on a Stick
Deep Fried Pulled Pork “FUNYUN®” Dings
Southern Fried Chicken and Dumplins
Fernie’s Down Home Chicken Pot Pie Pocket with Mac ‘n Cheese Dip
A savory cream sauce filled with shredded roasted chicken breast, diced white potatoes, sweet carrots, peas, corn and a special blend of herbs and spices is ladled into a flaky pastry dough and folded into a “hot pocket” style then deep fried. Served with a side of mac ‘n cheese-inspired dip - a unique sharp cheddar sauce.
