Idaho is a state known for its natural beauty and diverse landscape, but it also has some delicious food offerings. From potatoes to trout, Idaho foods are some of the most unique in the country.
The cuisine is a combination of classic American comfort food with flavors from around the world that come together to create something truly special.
If you’re looking for an unforgettable experience with amazing flavor and texture combinations, these are some iconic foods from Idaho to try in its delicious food scene!
Most Famous Idaho Food
Baked Idaho Potatoes
The state of Idaho is known for its potatoes, which are famous for being especially large and flavorful. So if there’s one classic Idaho food, it has to be the baked Idaho potato.
The traditional way to enjoy Idaho potatoes is by baking them until they are tender and golden brown on the outside. This simple cooking method preserves their flavor and allows them to absorb any seasonings or condiments you add.
They have a fluffy texture when baked and a delicious earthy flavor that pairs perfectly with butter and sour cream. It’s sometimes topped with chives or bacon bits for extra flavor. You can even add seasoning mixes like garlic powder or Italian herbs.
No Idaho food list would be complete without mentioning these tasty spuds! It’s the perfect comfort food and a staple side dish for many meals in Idaho. You can pair it with steak, burgers, or fish.
One of the obvious and fun facts about Idaho is its reputation as the Potato Capital of the World. So, you can’t miss out on trying the potatoes here.
Popular Idaho Foods
The Idahoan Sandwich
Have you heard of the Idahoan sandwich? A dish named right after the state, there should be nothing more iconic… or you would think.
It’s a sandwich that’s popular in Idaho, but surprisingly not many people outside of the state actually know about it. Nonetheless, It’s definitely one of the top sandwiches out there, especially if you’re a fan of cheesy comfort food.
The Idahoan sandwich is a hot, cheesy sandwich that’s exploding with rich flavor. It’s made with sliced meatloaf, which is super moist and delicious, and then loaded up with all kinds of toppings. It’s basically a loaded cheese meatloaf sandwich – yum!
One of the best versions of the Idahoan sandwich can be found at Meltz Extreme, where they take perfectly baked meatloaf and slap it in between mashed potatoes. Then, they add a sweet ketchup chili glaze and top it all off with white cheddar and Colby Jack cheese. How could you not love that? It’s like a warm, cheesy hug in sandwich form.
So, if you ever find yourself in Idaho, be sure to add the Idahoan sandwich to your dining bucket list. You won’t be disappointed. With its hearty layers of deliciousness, it’s no wonder why this Idaho food has gained a devoted following!
Red Trout
Red Trout is Idaho’s local fish species and a favorite among Idahoans. This freshwater trout can found in the rivers and streams of Idaho. It known for its beautiful pinkish-red skin and delicious flavor.
Red Trout has a mild, delicate taste and a firm, flaky texture that’s perfect for grilling or pan-frying. It has a light sweetness that pairs well with many sauces. You can find it served in restaurants throughout Idaho
It’s an excellent source of protein and other essential nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids which make it great for your health. Idahoans enjoy Red Trout as a delicacy and it’s also popular among visitors.
Habanero Pizza
This is not one of the common foods from Idaho, but rather is a reflection of some special dishes you can find in the state. If you’re a fan of spicy foods, you’ve got to try the Habanero Pizza when visiting Idaho!
Famously known from the Flying Pie Pizzeria, The Habanero Pizza is a pizza that’s littered with spicy habanero peppers, along with some other classic toppings like cheese, tomato sauce, and olives.
The habanero peppers give the pizza a spicy kick that’s not for the faint of heart. You can choose the level of spiciness depending on how adventurous you are, with triple being the top.
This pizza that packs a punch is a great way to experience a special food of Idaho for anyone who loves spicy foods. It is only available on specific months (typically August) so if this is your purpose for visiting, make sure to check beforehand.
Habaneros are known to be some of the hottest peppers in the world. So if you’re not used to spicy foods, take caution when trying this pizza! But if you do enjoy spicy flavors, It’s a fiery and flavorful dish that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.
Snack Foods In Idaho
Finger Steaks
If you’re a meat lover, you have to try Finger Steaks when you’re in Idaho! This deep-fried beef tenderloin strip is a local specialty and a must-try for anyone visiting Idaho.
These delicious strips of steak are marinated in a special blend of spices and then dredged in flour before being deep-fried until golden brown and crispy. They’re typically served with french fries and tartar sauce for dipping, making it a very hearty meal!
The thin strips of beef are perfect for snacking or sharing, and the batter gives them a crispy texture that’s irresistible. Plus, they’re super flavorful.
Finger steaks have become iconic Idaho food over time. It’s incredibly popular among Idaho locals as well as visitors. Even if you’re not much of a meat eater, you’ll still find these to be quite delicious.
Basque Food (Croquetas)
The Idaho Basque community has been around for over 100 years. They are an ethnic group from the Pyrenees region of Spain and France. As such, Basque cuisine is often compared to Spanish and French cooking but also features some of its own local dishes.
Many Basques immigrated to Idaho during the mid to late 1800s and brought their culinary traditions with them. Today, they are a big part of the Idaho food scene.
What makes Basque food special is its unique blend of flavors and ingredients. Basque dishes often include bold spices, savory meats, and fresh vegetables.
One of the most popular Idaho foods is croquetas, which are basically fried balls of mashed potatoes and ground beef mixed with spices. They have a crunchy exterior and a creamy interior that make them delicious!
Basque food is a staple in Idaho cuisine and can be found at many restaurants across the state. In fact, Boise, Idaho has one of the largest Basque populations in the United States, so you can be sure to find authentic Basque cuisine in this city.
Iconic Sides And Foods From Idaho
Fry Sauce
Fry sauce is one of the most iconic foods in Idaho. It is a simple but tasty mayonnaise-ketchup mixture that Idahoans love to use as a condiment for their French fries and tater tots.
This creamy and tangy sauce can be found at many restaurants and fast-food chains across the state. It goes well with almost anything fried or grilled, so you can see people using it with burgers and onion rings as well.
Plus, everyone seems to have their own secret recipe or preferred ratio of ketchup to mayo, which adds to the fun and uniqueness of this sauce.
If you visit Idaho, make sure to try some fry sauce. You can even make your own version at home – all you need is mayonnaise and ketchup (or any other tomato-based sauce), plus some spices like garlic powder for more kick.
Morel Mushrooms
Morel mushrooms are wild fungi that are only available during the spring season. These highly demanded morsels can be found growing in forests or areas where the soil is moist and rich.
Morel mushrooms have a distinct honeycomb texture and a rich nutty taste. They’re often used in restaurants to add an extra layer of exquisite flavor to dishes like risottos and soups.
What makes them special is that they’re not only delicious but also quite rare and difficult to find. Consequently, Morel mushrooms are a prized delicacy among chefs and mushroom hunters.
Morels are highly recognized for their unique flavor and texture, so it’s no wonder Idaho locals love these delectable fungi!
If you find yourself in Idaho during the springtime, try hunting down some of these delicacies. When purchasing them, make sure to get them from reputable sources, as some mushrooms can be toxic.
Desserts And Sweet Foods In Idaho
Ice Cream Potato
Potato and Ice cream!!? Yes, you read that right. This food from Idaho might sound peculiar, but it’s actually quite iconic in the state! Ok, I’m just kidding there’s actually no potato in this dish.
The ice cream potato is a play on the Idaho classic—the Idaho Potato. It’s vanilla ice cream crafted into the shape of a potato. It is then topped with whipped cream and drizzled with chocolate syrup, chocolate bits, and cocoa which represents the dirt. This sweet treat is a beloved Idaho food.
Its unique presentation makes for a fun and whimsical dessert that’s perfect for anyone with a sweet tooth. Plus, it’s a nod to Idaho’s agricultural roots, as potatoes are one of the state’s major crops.
Huckleberry Pie And Ice Cream (Everything Huckleberry)
Idaho is a great place to find huckleberries. These are small, round, and tart berries that grow wild in certain parts of Idaho.
They’re sometimes compared to blueberries, but huckleberries have a distinct flavor that’s sweeter and more intense. It’s no wonder why locals love them so much!
Huckleberries are commonly used in all kinds of dishes, from sweet to savory. Huckleberry pies and ice cream are a couple of the most popular Idaho foods, especially during summertime.
You can also try other delicious Idahoan treats made with huckleberries like jams, syrups, pancakes, muffins, and more. There are all kinds of delicious ways to enjoy these iconic berries.
Huckleberries give food a wonderfully vibrant color that makes the dish look as good as they taste! They are a local specialty and perfect for anyone who loves fruity and sweet flavors.
FAMOUS FOODS IN THE US |
Discovering Delicious Idaho Foods
One of the things that make food in Idaho special is the use of local ingredients. The state is home to a thriving agricultural industry, and many restaurants and chefs take advantage of the fresh produce, meats, and dairy products that are available locally.
Some of the most iconic foods in Idaho include Finger Steaks, Huckleberry dishes, Basque cuisine, and of course, the famous Baked Idaho Potato. These dishes showcase the unique flavors and culinary traditions of the state and are must-tries for any visitors.
Foods from Idaho are a reflection of the state’s rich history, diverse cultural influences, and abundant natural resources. So make sure you don’t overlook them even as you are all excited by the famous landmarks in Idaho.
