Home Grown: Texas Cuisine

In impromptu celebration of my 25th blog post, I decided to blog on something near and dear to my heart: Texas. I was randomly inspired to write and hear from the public. Here goes.

I was at work earlier this morning, and I noticed a dish that my co-worker brought from home to eat. What is it? I ask, thinking it's a hearty stew or soup. Chili with cornbread, he says. I light up, immediately thinking of my native homeland, Texas.  With new found interest, I ask him where he's originally from. It's not Texas. His answer made me ponder. It wasn't until I was cooking myself lunch at home that I wondered: what defines Texas cuisine?

After 23 years of extensive observation (aka living in the state), I was able to come up with three distinct categories that to me scream Texas.

1. Barbecue. In general, BBQ can be found in different areas and states, like North Carolina, but that doesn't take away the fact that Texas is known for some great ribs, pulled pork, and baked beans.
2. Seafood. Mainly down south along the coast of the Gulf of Mexico, you are bound to find seafood, either in a plethora of restaurants, or a fish market. Some dishes have their own Texas coast feel, while others are heavily influenced by our next-door neighbor New Orleans. As a native Houstonian, seafood is readily available, creating the family of seafood lovers I come from. Bring on the catfish!
3. Tex-Mex. I saved the most distinctive and dear for last. Texas has a long history with Mexico, another next-door neighbor, and anywhere you go, from the big cities to the small towns, you can find this phenomenal fusion. Guacamole is a crown jewel here. What's Taco Bell?

I want to hear from you! Whether you're a native or have visited the Lone Star State, how would you define Texas cuisine? Where are some restaurants you've visited that gave you a "home grown feel?" Let me know in the comment section below! I look forward to finding out what you think.

*sings* the stars at night are big and bright...

Last First Day

Today was the first day of classes at Emerson. With the plan I have for the rest of my college career, this semester will be my last in a classroom setting. I find it rather bittersweet. I've entered and enjoyed (and sometimes dreadfully internalized thoughts) in classrooms for about twenty-two years. That's a long time. Many moments I no longer remember, but the feeling is still there. The excitement to learn something new, the fear of a group project, wondering if I will carry weight this time, giving myself a little pep talk about the journey ahead.

However, I was able to jump on in and engage with the class, give my thoughts, some of my knowledge, and go out on a limb to share my dream. I anticipate my toughest semester yet as far as discipline, but I need to make this count. I must end with a bang, and then, I shall intern.

Bring on the water cooler (publishing reference, it's okay), but first, bring on the homework!