Food Network Picked Louisiana’s Most Iconic Dish And Locals May Disagree

(KMDL-FM) Even the guys who built Mount Rushmore knew you couldn't pick just one; that's why they have the heads of four U.S. Presidents sculpted into the rock face of the mountain. With that being said, what makes Food Network think it could single out Louisiana's food scene down to just one iconic food? Whether they should, they did.

What Did Food Network Choose as Louisiana's Most Iconic Food?

The Food Network has released a list of what it calls the Most Iconic Food in All 50 States. It's a fun list to read, that is, until you get down to Louisiana and the choice that was made to represent our food culture. The choice was Beignets. In the article, the author asks, "Is there anything to argue with here?" I reckon there might be.

a plate of food

So, let us ask you: what food should this article be about? Gumbo? Jambalaya? Etouffee? Cracklins? Boudin? Crawfish? Shrimp? Pralines? Strawberries? Mirlitons? Yams? Rice? Catfish? Redfish? Snapper? I think I have made my point.

Do You Think Food Network Got Louisiana's Choice Wrong?

Oddly enough, in that entire litany of foods associated with Louisiana cooking, I did not mention the one food that Food Network says is our "iconic representation". No, I am not disputing the Food Network finding; I am just having an issue saying that food is the "one" iconic food, like Mount Rushmore. I think Louisiana has room for a few more Presidents on our Mount Rushmore of food.

READ MORE: Best BBQ in Louisiana is Found in Lafayette

Beignets also seem to be a New Orleans thing. Yeah, we have them all over South Louisiana, but even here in Lafayette, more folks would go for a Meche's Donut than a beignet.

white and green plastic pack

I guess we'll have to say the choice is not wrong, but it could be righter if you're following our twisted line of thinking. Can we say the quiet part out loud? Beignets are more of a New Orleans thing, and while New Orleans is a large part of Louisiana and its culture, it's not all of our culture and certainly not the final word in food.

READ MORE: Food Network Reveals Louisiana's Most Nostalgic Dish

Iconic food choices from other neighboring states were Fried Pickles in Arkansas, biscuits in Mississippi, brisket in Texas, and barbeque chicken with Alabama white sauce in Alabama. Meanwhile, if you're looking for a little liquid refreshment to wash down all of that iconic food, might we suggest?