What dishes do you think of when you think of Texas?The cuisine of Texas has a style unlike that of any other of the United States. Sharing a border with Mexico brings foods from that area into play. Chefs and home cooks alike in Texas are also influenced by the frontier spirit of the area, and by native Americans. Texas foods also speak of the settlers who have come to the state from many countries, to seek their own fortunes. This cookbook introduces you to all kinds of Texas dishes. It's not all about BBQ and Tex-Mex recipes, although I've included some of those. Texas cooking also shares roots with Southern cuisine, although they have a unique flavor that brings your mind to Texas. If you've not experienced Texas foods before, this will give you a way to develop a glimpse into the cuisine of the state. Non-Texans often picture dishes in the state as consisting mainly of Mexican seasonings like chili peppers, cumin and chili powder. But that discounts the Southern touch that many Texas dishes display. From your first bite to your last gulp of iced tea, you'll enjoy sampling fare that is unique to the state where Bigger is Better. Texans prefer dishes strong on flavor, with spring onions, corn meal, cheese, gravy, tomatoes and green peppers, as well as beef, chicken and pork. Texas meals have a character that is formed in the way the dishes are prepared, what seasonings are used, and how they are served. Meals in Texas are usually informal and friendly, so feel free to visit and enjoy their dishes, or indeed, just sample them in your own kitchen.