No cowboy is more iconic than John Wayne. His movies about the west were themed in Montana, most western states, and especially the Southwest. He must have been such a Big Screen Star because of the food that he enjoyed.

John Wayne’s favorite foods are no surprise. Many of these foods were featured in his films. “Slap some bacon on a biscuit and let’s go!” The Duke was a meat and potato guy. 

Grilled steaks were a common treat. The sides of potatoes made the meat better. The biscuits were perfect with most meals. Tequila and anything Whiskey were perfect to wash it down. What else would you expect from such a Man’s man?

Wayne was also a nautical guy and enjoyed fishing and boating. He owned a yacht and frequented enjoyed seafoods, fish, and crabs. Much of his fishing was done in the Pacific Ocean but he also enjoyed trout and bass fishing. 

The southwest flavors were perhaps his most favorites. His wife Pilar wrote a cookbook of recipes that John loved. Beans, carnitas, Chili rellenos, cornbread and spicy chili. A cheese and egg casserole were on his menu. John Wayne penned this Casserole for a friend’s celebrity cookbook. Cara Connelly wrote a celebrity’s favorites cookbook, called “Cooking with Love from Cara and Her Friends.”, in 1979. The Duke contributed his casserole. Ironically, this was the same year that he died from cancer. 

John Wayne lived an exciting life. He was hungry for new adventures, flavors, and stories. Cigarettes, tequila, and whiskey were habits that surely did not help. At that time these substances were well used by many Americans. It was not until later that we learned the true risks of these unhealthy chemicals. 

The Duke loved to eat! He often hosted cookouts and feasts for friends and family. Grilling was often the center of the meals. I am not sure if Wayne really liked Corn Dodgers from his True Grit film. He did love cheese grits though. 

“We’re Burning Daylight!”

Montana Grant