Deep fried pho is gaining more recognition after winning big at the State Fair of Texas’ Big Tex Choice Awards.
Key details: On Monday, the State Fair of Texas announced the winners of this year’s Big Tex Choice Awards. The annual competition has been around since 2005.
A total of 57 dishes competed, and several finalists were announced earlier this month. Three treats ultimately placed first in three main categories: “Best Taste – Savory,” “Best Taste – Sweet” and “Most Creative.”
Michelle Le’s Deep Fried Pho dish won the “Best Taste – Savory” category. The mouthwatering treat features noodles, herbs, beef slices and bean sprouts that are simmered for hours before being deep fried. Each serving includes cilantro, lime, hoisin sauce, sriracha and a side of pho broth to dip the deep-fried food in.
Controversy: Le’s dish previously garnered backlash after Le and her family were accused of stealing the dish from Dallas-based Vietnamese restaurant Cris and John.
Other winners: The competition’s other winners were Stephen El Gidi’s Biscoff Delight cheesecake (“Best Taste Sweet”) and Cody Hays and Lauren Hays’ Bourbon Banana Caramel Sopapillas (“Most Creative”).
Where to try: The winners were announced ahead of this year’s State Fair of Texas, which will take place from Sept. 29 to Oct. 22. State fair visitors will be able to try the winning dishes, as well as several of the Big Tex Choice Awards finalists.
