Fried Pho, Biscoff Cheesecake Named State Fair of Texas Champions

In early July, 36 semi-finalists were revealed for the 19th Annual Big Tex Choice Awards for the upcoming State Fair of Texas. Those were then whittled down to the top ten finalists, and this past weekend an all-star panel of judges tasted the foods and made their decisions for the champions of the various categories.

The Winners Are...

• “Best Taste – Savory” goes to the Deep Fried Pho by Michelle Le
• “Best Taste – Sweet” goes to the Biscoff Delight by Stephen El Gidi,
• "Most Creative" - goes to Cody & Lauren Hays for Bourbon Banana Caramel Sopapillas

Best Taste – Savory

DEEP FRIED PHO, Michelle Le

Bringing a southern flare to this popular traditional Vietnamese comfort food that is both rich and savory. Deep Fired Pho is handcrafted, rolled up, and deep-fried Texas style! This unique combination creates a perfect balance between flavorful and refreshing. With every bite, you get a harmonious and succulent mouthful of noodles, slices of beef, fresh herbs, bean sprouts, and a taste of aromatic pho broth that has been slowly simmered for hours. To tie this experience together, it is served with a side of pho broth for dipping, lime, jalapeños, cilantro, hoisin sauce, and sriracha for a spicy, fiery kick!

Best Taste – Sweet

BISCOFF® DELIGHT, Stephen El Gidi

Immerse yourself in the realm of a classic New York-style cheesecake coated with Belgian chocolate. Each bite reveals the symphony of an outer layer adorned with crushed Biscoff® cookies, offering a delightful crunch. To elevate this edible artwork, a drizzle of Lotus Biscoff® spread cascades gracefully, imparting a caramelized touch. Finally, a crowning glory is bestowed upon this culinary marvel with a perfectly placed Biscoff® cookie that entices you to embrace pure indulgence.

Most Creative

BOURBON BANANA CARAMEL SOPAPILLAS, Cody & Lauren Hays

Hot and delicious traditional sopapillas topped with vanilla-caramel-infused bananas, sweet bourbon syrup, crushed candied pecans, sweetened mascarpone cheese, crumbled Nilla Wafers, and dusted with powdered sugar.

The other delicious 2023 finalists include Deep Fried Cheesy Crab Tater Bites by Isaac Rousso, Fernie’s Fried Cherry Pie in the Sky by Christi Erpillo & Johanna McKee, Loaded Fries Pizza by Tom Grace, Ox’cellent Soul Roll by Kerston & Shawn Thorns, Sweet Encanto by Tony & Terry Bednar, Trail-Ade by Ruth Hauntz, and Turkey Ribs by Abel Gonzales.

The State Fair of Texas will be held September 29 through October 22 in Dallas.