Culture

Cotton Candy Bacon Steals the Show at State Fair’s Big Tex Choice Awards

Updated
Sep 2, 2024 4:47 PM
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DALLAS- The cotton candy bacon on a stick that Isaac Rousso, a concessionaire, sold won the top prize in the "Best Taste — Sweet" category at the Big Tex Choice Awards, which were held on August 22, 2024, at the State Fair of Texas. 

Photo Source: Freepik

The creative dessert, which consisted of bacon that had been coated in pink cotton candy and then blow-torched to perfection, made an impression that the panel will not soon forget.

"It was love at first sight, and then love at first bite," said Judge Leslie Brenner, who had previously worked as a restaurant reviewer for The Dallas Morning News. 

Rousso's creation left a powerful impression on the judges, who had previously tried nine different delicacies that were fried, salty, and sweet for comparison.

Adding, "I can picture kids and adults alike enjoying this at the fair," said Calvin Golden, a retired Wingstop franchisee who was also one of the five judges. 

An overwhelming number of people enjoyed the blend of sweet and savory flavors.

Another judge, Brad Batson, who is also a co-founder of Karbach Brewing Company, expressed the same impression, stating that he was "blown away" by the one-of-a-kind food item. 

At the fair this year, the cotton candy bacon on a stick is anticipated to be a notable favorite, exciting guest with its robust flavors and eye-catching design.

Justin Martinez, a concessionaire, received the "Best Taste—Savory" award for his Dominican Fritura Dog, a corn dog packed with salami and cheese. His family has been a regular presence at the State Fair since the late 1970s, prior to Justin's birth. 

This proved meaningful for the family as his father, Rudy Martinez, a well-known concessionaire who was liked by many, passed away in February 2024.

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