Fair Food Classics
The Minnesota State Fair: where summer’s warmth gently fades into the crisp anticipation of autumn, and where the air crackles with the joyous symphony of sights, sounds, and, most importantly, a culinary adventure that’s unlike anything else. This iconic event, affectionately known as the Great Minnesota Get-Together, is more than just a state fair; it’s a celebration of community, agriculture, and, of course, some of the most creative and delicious food you’ll find anywhere. With hundreds of vendors vying for your attention and an overwhelming array of options, navigating the food scene at the Minnesota State Fair can feel like a daunting task.
This guide is your passport to the most memorable food experiences the fair has to offer. We’ll highlight the must-try dishes, from beloved classics to innovative new creations, ensuring you make the most of your foodie adventure at the Great Minnesota Get-Together. Get ready to loosen your belt and dive headfirst into the incredible world of the best Minnesota State Fair foods!
Cheese Curds
No trip to the Minnesota State Fair is complete without indulging in the classics that have become synonymous with this annual event. These are the foods that evoke nostalgia, bring back cherished memories, and consistently deliver that quintessential fair experience. Let’s start with the undisputed champion: cheese curds. Imagine bite-sized morsels of fresh, squeaky cheese, battered to golden perfection, and served piping hot. These aren’t just any cheese curds; they’re the ultimate comfort food, melting in your mouth with a burst of cheesy goodness. The appeal of deep-fried cheese curds is undeniable; they are the perfect combination of salty, savory, and utterly addictive. While various vendors offer their take on this classic, some stands have become legendary for their exceptional cheese curd creations. Seek out those long lines – they’re usually a good sign! The fresh, quality cheese used and the perfectly crispy batter is what truly sets them apart.
Corn Dogs
A handheld masterpiece of simplicity, the corn dog is a staple for fairgoers of all ages. A juicy hot dog, encased in a sweet and savory cornmeal batter, and deep-fried to a satisfying crunch – what’s not to love? The corn dog is a symbol of the fair, a perfect representation of easy-to-eat, crowd-pleasing fare. It’s a delightful contrast of textures and flavors, and walking around the fair with a corn dog in hand is practically a rite of passage.
Sweet Martha’s Cookies
Prepare for a sensory overload of chocolatey goodness because Sweet Martha’s Cookies are nothing short of legendary. Freshly baked, warm, and overflowing with chocolate chips, these cookies are served in heaping buckets, creating an experience as much as a food item. The aroma alone is enough to draw you in, and the taste is simply divine. Expect long lines, but trust us, they’re worth the wait. Getting your hands on a bucket of Sweet Martha’s Cookies is a highlight for many fair attendees, a sweet reward for braving the crowds and a perfect treat to share (or not!).
Pronto Pups
The Pronto Pup, often found alongside the corn dog, is another must-try. While similar to its cornmeal-coated cousin, the Pronto Pup uses a different batter, giving it a slightly sweeter and smoother taste. The history of the Pronto Pup at the fair is rich, sparking a friendly debate amongst fairgoers: Pronto Pup versus Corn Dog? Which one is superior? The only way to find out is to try both! Both offer a satisfying fair experience.
A Taste of Tomorrow’s Tradition: New and Exciting Fair Creations
Every year, the Minnesota State Fair pushes culinary boundaries, introducing new and innovative food items that often become the next generation of classics. Keep an eye out for these buzzworthy dishes:
The Nordic Waffle Burger
Nordic Waffles, near the International Bazaar. Forget the typical bun! This burger features a savory waffle as the base, topped with a juicy burger patty, a tangy lingonberry sauce, and crisp pickled onions. It’s a fusion of Scandinavian flavors and classic American comfort food. The waffle adds a unique texture and flavor profile, making this a must-try for adventurous foodies. The lingonberry sauce offers a burst of sweetness and tartness that perfectly complements the savory burger.
Dill Pickle Pizza
Various vendor, check the official Fair food finder map! If you love pickles, this is a must try. Cream cheese sauce, dill pickles, and dill seasoning!
Mango Madness Sticky Rice
Que Viet. Fresh, fragrant mango perfectly paired with sweet sticky rice. This unique and delightful dessert takes on the classic Thai dish, but made for the Minnesota State Fair.
Savor the Moment: Savory Sensations
Beyond the classics, the Minnesota State Fair offers a wealth of savory options that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. From deep-fried delights to smoky meats, there’s something for every palate.
Deep-Fried Pickles
Don’t knock it ’til you try it! Deep-fried pickles are a surprisingly delicious and addictive fair food. Whether they’re spears, chips, or crinkle-cut, the combination of tangy pickle and crispy batter is a match made in food heaven. The contrast between the sour pickle and the salty, savory batter is incredibly satisfying. Many vendors offer different variations, with various seasonings and dipping sauces to enhance the flavor.
Turkey Legs
For a truly primal eating experience, grab a giant turkey leg. These massive hunks of smoked meat are a feast for the eyes and the stomach. Holding a turkey leg and tearing into the juicy, smoky meat is a quintessential fair experience. While they may be a bit messy, the flavor is undeniable. Seek out vendors known for their slow-smoked turkey legs; the extra time and attention make all the difference. The “caveman” appeal of a turkey leg is undeniable, making it a fun and memorable fair food.
Indian Tacos (Fry Bread Tacos)
A celebration of indigenous cuisine, Indian tacos, or fry bread tacos, are a must-try for their unique flavor and cultural significance. The fry bread, a fluffy and slightly sweet flatbread, serves as the base for a variety of toppings, such as seasoned ground beef, beans, lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, and sour cream. The combination of the soft fry bread and the savory toppings is a delicious and satisfying meal. The cultural aspect of this food adds to the experience, making it a meaningful and delicious way to connect with the Native American community.
Indulge Your Sweet Tooth: Dessert Beyond the Bucket
While Sweet Martha’s Cookies are undoubtedly a highlight, the Minnesota State Fair boasts a wide array of sweet treats to satisfy your sugar cravings.
Deep-Fried Candy Bars
Take your favorite candy bar, dunk it in batter, and deep-fry it to golden perfection. That’s the magic of deep-fried candy bars. The combination of textures and flavors is a decadent delight. The warm, gooey candy filling, combined with the crispy batter, creates a truly indulgent treat. Choose from Snickers, Milky Way, Reese’s, or any other candy bar that strikes your fancy.
Ice Cream
Escape the heat with a refreshing scoop (or two) of ice cream. The Minnesota State Fair offers a variety of ice cream options, from local favorites like Izzy’s Ice Cream to the classic Dairy Goodness Bar. Izzy’s often features special fair-only flavors, incorporating local ingredients and creative combinations. The Dairy Goodness Bar offers classic flavors made with fresh, local dairy, a perfect way to support Minnesota’s dairy farmers.
Mini Donuts
Small in size but big on flavor, mini donuts are a classic fair treat. These bite-sized donuts, freshly made and coated in cinnamon sugar, are perfect for snacking on as you wander the fairgrounds. Several vendors offer their own versions of mini donuts.
Quench Your Thirst: Refreshing Fair Drinks
No food adventure is complete without something to wash it all down. The Minnesota State Fair offers a variety of refreshing drinks to quench your thirst.
Fresh-Squeezed Lemonade
Nothing beats the taste of fresh-squeezed lemonade on a hot fair day. The tangy, sweet, and refreshing flavor is the perfect pick-me-up. Many vendors offer different flavors or variations, such as strawberry lemonade, raspberry lemonade, or even lavender lemonade.
Craft Beer Options
For those seeking a more adult beverage, the Minnesota State Fair boasts a growing selection of craft beer options. Several vendors feature local breweries, offering a taste of Minnesota’s thriving craft beer scene.
Tips for a Successful Fair Food Adventure
Navigating the Minnesota State Fair food scene can be overwhelming, but with a little planning, you can make the most of your experience.
Plan Ahead: Before you head to the fair, research the vendors and menus online. The official Minnesota State Fair website and app are excellent resources for finding information about food vendors, locations, and prices.
Pace Yourself: Don’t try to eat everything in one day! The fair is a marathon, not a sprint. Choose a few must-try items and savor each bite.
Share with Friends: Sharing dishes with friends is a great way to try more options without overeating.
Bring Cash: While some vendors accept credit cards, many still prefer cash. It’s always a good idea to have some cash on hand.
Check out the Food Finder Map: The fair’s food finder map is your best friend! Use it to locate vendors and navigate the fairgrounds efficiently.
Consider Off-Peak Times: Visit during less crowded hours, such as weekdays or early mornings, to avoid long lines at popular vendors.
A Culinary Celebration
The best Minnesota State Fair foods aren’t just about satisfying your hunger; they’re about creating memories and celebrating the spirit of the Great Minnesota Get-Together. From the iconic cheese curds to the innovative new creations, the fair offers a culinary adventure for everyone.
So, as the crisp air of autumn begins to nip at your nose and the anticipation of another year’s festivities begins, grab your friends, loosen your belt a notch (or two!), and prepare to indulge in the best eats the Great Minnesota Get-Together has to offer! Happy fair-going, and may your every bite be filled with joy and delicious memories.
