A Brief History of Frito Pie
Walking taco. Frito pie. Beefy Fritos. Whatever you call it where you live, this dish — or bag, rather! — is a classic. Perhaps you've been eating Frito chili pie for years, or maybe this is the first you've heard of it. Either way, you're about to be craving a meal that is as easy to make as it is delicious.
What Is Frito Pie?
Though you may be picturing chips dished out of a pie tin, this meal actually gets a bit more involved. A Frito pie casserole is a meal you'll find at concession stands, campgrounds, home kitchens, and even restaurants. Just as it sounds, it is made with Fritos, but you add chili, and often other toppings, to make a full flavor bomb.
Some people might dump the Fritos out on a plate or into a bowl before pouring on the chili, but many make it in and eat it straight from the bag — no crust, filling, or pie tin required.
Who Invented Frito Pie?
While the debate is ongoing, two main stories have been settled on as the final contenders. Texans believe they are responsible for this casserole-in-a-bag. The story goes back to 1930 when Daisy Doolin decided to spruce up her son's invention. Charles Elmer Doolin, the mastermind behind Fritos themselves, allowed his mother to serve up this casserole, topped with cheese and diced onions. It was an instant hit that soon became a staple around the state.
However, New Mexicans also maintain they are responsible for Frito chili pie, though their story doesn't begin until 1960. Teresa Hernandez worked at Woolworth's and would pour chili over opened bags of Fritos for customers. Her version was void of any other toppings, but even without the extras, it was also a hit and took off just like Daisy Doolin's concoction.
Perhaps both stories could be true. Seeing as social media didn't exist back then, maybe both of these innovators truly did invent it and neither of them knew it. Great minds think alike, you could say!
How Can You Improve Frito Pie?
It might seem an impossible question when you think of the perfection that is Frito chili pie, but you may be able to improve on this classic. The Fritos brand has a host of other flavors that could make eating your chip pie a whole new experience.
Honey BBQ Twists will not only give the dish a new flavor but a new texture as well. Flamin' Hot corn chips will give it a kick for all those who love added spice. Scoops could turn it into finger food, and Chili Cheese could intensify the flavor of your chili.
There are also several toppings you can add:
• Diced onions
• Shredded cheese
• Sour cream
• Shredded lettuce
• Diced tomatoes
• Sliced olives
• Green chilis
Are You Craving Frito Pie Yet?
Chances are you've already headed into the kitchen to whip up some Frito pie for dinner. If you're short on ingredients, be sure to check out XLNT Foods and our flavorful chili con carne. Place your order online today so you can add this to your meal plan soon.
Additional Reading and Sources:
https://www.eater.com/2016/4/3/11326520/frito-pie-explained
https://www.eatingonadime.com/walking-tacos-recipe/
https://www.xlntfoods.com/cookbook-recipes/xlnt-foods-chili-frito-pie-recipe