By Administrator The Minnesota State Fair, a beloved end-of-summer tradition, draws crowds from across the state and beyond. More than just a showcase of agriculture and entertainment, it’s a culinary adventure, a place where deep-fried fantasies come to life, and unique food combinations are celebrated. The fair is a symphony of sizzling grills, sweet aromas, and the happy chatter of people indulging in treats they’ve eagerly anticipated all year. Navigating the maze of food vendors can be overwhelming, though, especially for newcomers. That’s why this guide is your ticket to the best eats at the Minnesota State Fair – the iconic staples, the exciting new creations, and the hidden gems you won’t want to miss. Prepare your appetite and get ready for a delicious journey!
Classic State Fair Staples: Timeless Favorites
No visit to the Minnesota State Fair is complete without indulging in the classics – the foods that define the experience and conjure nostalgic memories for generations of fairgoers. These aren’t just snacks; they’re traditions.
Corn on the Cob: The Essence of Summer
Few things capture the essence of summer like a perfectly grilled ear of corn, slathered in butter and sprinkled with salt. At the Minnesota State Fair, corn on the cob is elevated to an art form. Vendors like the Corn Roast near the Dairy Building have perfected the process, offering sweet, juicy kernels that practically burst in your mouth. The smoky char from the grill adds another layer of flavor, making it an irresistible treat. It’s simple, yet satisfying, and truly embodies the spirit of the fair. Holding a dripping ear of corn, surrounded by the sights and sounds of the fair, is an experience in itself. You absolutely must have it to make your visit to the Minnesota State Fair complete.
Cheese Curds: A Minnesota Masterpiece
Cheese curds are a quintessential Minnesota food, and the State Fair is the perfect place to savor their cheesy goodness. These are the fresh, squeaky byproduct of the cheesemaking process. You can find them in their natural state or, even better, deep-fried to golden perfection. Several vendors offer fried cheese curds, and you can even find them with unique flavorings. Some vendors offer seasoned varieties. A basket of hot, crispy cheese curds, oozing with melted cheese, is a must-have for any self-respecting fairgoer. The flavor is mildly tangy and rich. The texture is both gooey and crispy. The cheese curds at the Minnesota State Fair are the real deal.
Pronto Pups: A Fair Icon
The Pronto Pup is a Minnesota State Fair original, and it’s a simple delight. It’s a cornmeal-battered hot dog on a stick, deep-fried to a golden brown. It’s often compared to a corn dog, but the batter is lighter and slightly sweeter. The Pronto Pup has been a State Fair staple for decades. Biting into a Pronto Pup, the sweet cornmeal batter gives way to the savory hot dog, creating a satisfying contrast of flavors. It’s easy to eat, portable, and perfect for enjoying while strolling through the fairgrounds. It’s a true classic, and a taste of Minnesota State Fair history.
Sweet Martha’s Cookies: Warm, Gooey Bliss
No trip to the Minnesota State Fair is complete without a visit to Sweet Martha’s Cookies. These are not your average cookies. They’re giant, warm, and gooey chocolate chip cookies served by the bucketful. The aroma of freshly baked cookies wafts through the air, drawing in crowds from all corners of the fairgrounds. Each year, Sweet Martha’s sells millions of cookies, a testament to their irresistible appeal. The cookies are slightly underbaked, creating a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture. They’re loaded with chocolate chips, ensuring a burst of chocolatey goodness with every bite. Whether you share a bucket with friends or indulge in a few on your own, Sweet Martha’s Cookies are a quintessential Minnesota State Fair experience.
New and Trending Foods: What’s Hot This Year
The Minnesota State Fair is a place of tradition, but it’s also a place of innovation. Each year brings a fresh wave of new food creations, vying for the title of the fair’s next big hit. These are some examples of the kinds of foods that might be introduced.
Pickle Pizza
The tangy, briny flavor of pickles combined with the cheesy comfort of pizza makes for an intriguing combination that will have your tastebuds tingling. It’s the kind of novel food mashup that tends to draw big crowds, so expect a bit of a wait, but it’s well worth the experience.
Ube Soft Serve
The ube flavor is the purple yam with a unique flavor and its vibrant color, served in a cool, creamy soft serve. The subtle sweetness and nutty undertones of the ube make for a refreshing treat, perfect for a hot summer day.
Fried Green Tomatoes with Chipotle Aioli
The perfect blend of crunchy and juicy, these fried green tomatoes are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. The spicy and smoky chipotle aioli adds a touch of heat, creating a delightful contrast of flavors.
Hidden Gems and Underrated Delights
While the classic State Fair foods and the trendy new creations often steal the spotlight, there are plenty of hidden gems and underrated delights waiting to be discovered. Venture off the beaten path, and you might just find your new favorite fair food.
Midtown Global Market’s International Delights
Located within the International Bazaar, Midtown Global Market offers a diverse array of ethnic cuisine. From authentic tacos and savory gyros to spicy curries and flavorful dumplings, there’s something to satisfy every palate. It’s a great place to take a break from the deep-fried fare and explore the world through food. The portion sizes are generous, and the prices are reasonable, making it a great option for a filling and flavorful meal.
The Turkey to Go
Okay, the Turkey to Go is pretty well known, but many overlook it. If you are looking for a tender, tasty smoked turkey leg or sandwich, this is the place to go. The flavors and smells of the turkey being prepared will whet your appetite and have you coming back for more every year.
Minnesota Wine Country
Tucked away in a quieter corner of the fairgrounds, Minnesota Wine Country offers a taste of local wines. Sample a variety of red, white, and fruit wines from Minnesota wineries. It’s a great way to relax and enjoy a different side of the fair. The friendly staff can help you choose a wine that suits your taste, and you can even purchase bottles to take home.
Drinks to Quench Your Thirst
No culinary adventure is complete without something to wash it all down. The Minnesota State Fair offers a variety of refreshing beverages to quench your thirst.
Fresh-Squeezed Lemonade
A classic fair staple, fresh-squeezed lemonade is the perfect thirst quencher on a hot day. Vendors like Hamline Church Dining Hall serve up ice-cold lemonade made with real lemons, sugar, and water. It’s tart, sweet, and incredibly refreshing.
Minnesota Craft Beer
Minnesota has a thriving craft beer scene, and the State Fair is a great place to sample some of the state’s best brews. Several vendors offer a selection of local craft beers, from hoppy IPAs to refreshing lagers. Check out the beer gardens for a wide selection of brews and a lively atmosphere.
Malts and Shakes
Cool off with a creamy malt or shake. The Dairy Goodness Bar is a must stop for all your dairy needs.
Tips for Navigating the Fair and Food Scene
The Minnesota State Fair can be a sensory overload, so it’s helpful to have a plan of attack. Here are some tips to help you navigate the fair and maximize your food experience:
Plan your visit: The fair is less crowded on weekdays, especially early in the morning. Consider going on a Tuesday or Wednesday to avoid the weekend crowds.
Download the State Fair app: The official State Fair app is your best friend. It includes a map of the fairgrounds, a list of vendors, and information about new foods.
Set a budget: It’s easy to overspend on food at the fair, so set a budget beforehand and stick to it.
Share with friends: Sharing food with friends is a great way to try more options without breaking the bank or feeling overly full.
Consider dietary restrictions: The State Fair offers a variety of vegetarian, gluten-free, and vegan options. Check the vendor menus for specific dietary information.
Stay hydrated: With all the walking and eating, it’s important to stay hydrated. Bring a water bottle and refill it at the water fountains throughout the fairgrounds.
Conclusion
The Minnesota State Fair is more than just a fair; it’s a culinary celebration of Minnesota’s unique food culture. From the iconic classics to the exciting new creations, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Remember to try the corn on the cob, cheese curds, pronto pups, and Sweet Martha’s cookies for a true taste of the fair. Be sure to explore the new food offerings and the hidden gems, and don’t forget to quench your thirst with a refreshing beverage. Plan your visit, set a budget, and most importantly, have fun! The Minnesota State Fair is a food lover’s paradise, and with a little planning, you can make the most of your experience. Now go forth and enjoy the great Minnesota get-together! What foods do you plan on trying?
