Idaho might be the land of potatoes but when it comes to culinary creations, it's also the land of unique dishes. Among its fields of crops and farms as far as the eye can see are some additions to restaurant menus that would cause many to do a double-take but to Idaho locals, it's all just normal grub. And we have to admit, it's pretty dang delicious - especially when it's local and rooted in the state's interesting history.
The Idahoan
In terms of sandwiches, the Idahoan is definitely at the top of most lists... Or at least it would be if this sandwich was well-known outside of its home state! For lovers of comfort food, this hot, cheesy sandwich is nothing short of a culinary hug on a place. It starts with a base of the moistest meatloaf you've ever had that's sliced and used as deli meat - yes, it's a meatloaf sandwich. A loaded meatloaf sandwich, actually.
The meatloaf then gets topped with mashed potatoes and a ketchup-chili glaze for a bit of heat and a bit of sweet. Cheddar and Colby jack cheeses become the glue that holds this sandwich together, all melting into cheesy, meaty, flavorful perfection. The best part is the lacey cheese bits that crisp up as the bread gets it toasted exterior... They're like little nuggets of salty perfection.
Finger Steaks
Think chicken tenders, but so much better and juicer. Idaho is pretty famous for their finger steaks which are long pieces of steak that are breaded (or battered) and fried to meaty, moist, bold perfection. Each restaurant seems to have its own take on what makes these bite-sized pieces of fried steak so addicting and it's true - once you dip one, you just can't stop at one. We'd recommend ordering several plates of these to go around because steak + flawless batter + a crispy finish + the perfect dipping sauce = perfection.
Anything With Morel Mushrooms
Morel mushrooms, for those who haven't guessed yet, are somewhat of a specialty in Idaho. They grow freely in the fields and those who have specialized licenses actually forage for them to sell to local restaurants. They grow in Idaho's many forests during the rainy season and are pretty easy to pick out since their shape and texture are so unique (however, a word of caution - don't forage for these unless you're very familiar with the mushrooms themselves, because many similar types can be toxic).
Their spongy outside allows them to soak up whatever sauce they're cooked in while their texture adds a meaty, yet light, balance to any dish.
Huckleberry Anything, Specifically Ice Cream
Huckleberries are another thing that grows freely in the state of Idaho and it's such a popular berry that entire festivals are devoted to them. These berries are delicious on their own but one of the most popular food items to try them in is none other than Idaho's huckleberry ice cream which is brought out by the gallon at its many summer festivals. It's delicious, slightly tart and sweet, and wholly satisfying with its light lavender color and unmistakable flavor.
Trout, The Fish Specialty
Not only is trout found in abundance in Idaho but it's actually somewhat of a specialty dish in the state. It can be found at most restaurants that have seafood options and many times, the fish has been caught only the morning of or day right before being served. It's something that's a must-try when visiting Idaho, or if you're adventurous enough, try trout fishing - it's a time-honored pastime and one that the locals look forward to doing every year.
Forget A Baked Potato, Try The Ice Cream Potato
It sounds strange but hear us out on this one. This is actually a common dessert that's served at many an Idaho fair and it's not even uncommon to see it on restaurant menus. Just as you'd top a baked potato with sour cream, ice cream is no different - only a little sweeter. Potatoes don't have much of a flavor, to begin with, so getting topped with a bit of chocolate is the only fair way to eat this unusual delicacy.
Just kidding! The ice cream potato is actually not a potato at all... It's ice cream shaped like a potato. And once you realize the entire thing is edible and sweet, it's truly delicious.
Croquetas, Part Of Its Famed Basque Cuisine
Many restaurants in Idaho are influenced by Basque cuisine and croquetas are one of the most popular dishes from it. These fried balls of perfection are usually served with potatoes, meat, cheese, fish, or some combination of any of those. They're then breaded and fried to create the most flawless crispy, golden exterior, while the inside is warm, melty, and full of flavor.