Raise your hand if you doubted Fried Jell-O. When it was announced as a State Fair contender earlier this month, did you question if it was delicious, or if it was even edible? Doubt no more.
This year’s most headline-worthy fair food claimed “Best Taste” at the annual Big Tex Choice Awards on Sunday. Winning the other equally coveted Big Tex prize, State Fair Cookie Fries was named “Most Creative.” The two winners were narrowed down from 34 semi-finalists and an elite eight to claim the deep-fried glory.
Both dishes were submitted by a couple of State Fair staples. Ruth Hauntz, a concessionaire for 28 years, created fried Jell-O, Dallas CultureMap reported. To clarify, fried Jell-O is classic cherry-flavored Jell-O in a panko-crusted breading, which is fried and then dusted with powdered sugar, served with whipped cream and topped with a cherry. The fair says the dish has “the perfect amount of crunch to compliment the jiggle.” What more could you want?
Just announced Big Tex Choice Award winners! Best Tasting- Fried Jello & Most Creative-Cookie Fries @StateFairOfTX! pic.twitter.com/rdWfJUOHM4
— Michelle Rodriguez (@michrod) August 28, 2016
The cookie fries were made by Isaac Rousso, who's been a Big Tex finalist for the past seven years, according to CultureMap. Cookie fries are more self-explanatory: crinkle-cut cookies (available in chocolate chip or sprinkles) served with strawberry or milk chocolate dipping sauce. Yes, we’d like cookie fries with our shake.
When it comes to fair food, the zanier, the better. The allure of winning one of the Big Tex awards has encouraged the wildest of food dreams to become reality every year since 2005.
Although there were just two dishes to take top honors, the six other finalists will still be available at the fair, which runs from Sept. 30 through Oct. 23 at Fair Park in Dallas.
Video: Meet the finalists
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oBqCSg2wDVA
