New Flavors of 2024
Spicy Korean BBQ Pork Belly Fries
The buzz around the MN State Fair Foods is often centered on what’s new. The fair vendors are always vying to outdo each other, unleashing a wave of innovative and tempting treats. This year, prepare your taste buds for a ride!
Let’s begin with something savory that’s sure to tantalize. Imagine a crispy, golden-brown creation: the Spicy Korean BBQ Pork Belly Fries.
Vendor/Location: The Grub Hub, located near the West End Market.
Description: Imagine perfectly crispy fries, generously topped with tender, slow-cooked pork belly, coated in a spicy Korean BBQ sauce. Finished off with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and fresh green onions.
Key Ingredients and Flavors: Crispy fries, succulent pork belly, gochujang-based sauce, sesame seeds, green onions. Expect a balance of sweet, savory, and spicy.
Review/Opinion: The combination is a delightful explosion of flavors and textures. The pork belly is cooked to perfection, with just the right amount of richness. The fries provide a perfect base, absorbing all the delicious sauce. It’s definitely worth seeking out, offering a refreshing change from the typical fair fare.
Blueberry Lemon Bliss Bowl
Next, let’s transition to a sweet sensation that’s making waves. Introducing the Blueberry Lemon Bliss Bowl.
Vendor/Location: Sweet Surrender, found near the Grandstand.
Description: A light and refreshing treat, this bowl features a base of creamy coconut yogurt, topped with fresh blueberries, a tart lemon curd, and a crunchy granola topping.
Key Ingredients and Flavors: Coconut yogurt, fresh blueberries, lemon curd, granola. This bowl offers a refreshing sweetness with a zing of lemon.
Review/Opinion: This is a perfect antidote to the heavier fare. The tart lemon curd cuts through the richness of the coconut yogurt, and the fresh blueberries add a burst of sweetness. A light, yet satisfying treat, ideal for a hot day at the fair.
A Culinary Trip Down Memory Lane
Corn Dog
Let’s start with the iconic Corn Dog.
Vendor/Location: Available at numerous locations throughout the fairgrounds, including many dedicated Corn Dog stands.
Description: A hot dog dipped in cornmeal batter and deep-fried to golden perfection. A quintessential fair food, enjoyed by generations.
Key Ingredients and Flavors: Hot dog, cornmeal batter, cooking oil. Simple, yet undeniably delicious.
Review/Opinion: A must-have for any fairgoer. The slightly sweet batter, perfectly crispy exterior, and savory hot dog create an irresistible combination. Don’t forget the mustard!
Cheese Curds
Next, we have the beloved Cheese Curds.
Vendor/Location: From the well known “The Mouth Trap” to various other vendors.
Description: Fresh cheese curds, battered and deep-fried. They should be warm, squeaky, and melt-in-your-mouth good.
Key Ingredients and Flavors: Cheese curds, batter, cooking oil. Pure, cheesy goodness.
Review/Opinion: Cheese curds are an essential part of the MN State Fair Foods experience. Freshly made, warm, and wonderfully squeaky, they are a delightful indulgence.
Footlong Hot Dog
Don’t forget about the mighty Footlong Hot Dog.
Vendor/Location: Various stands throughout the fair.
Description: A massive, flavorful hot dog nestled in a soft bun. A hearty and satisfying choice for a hungry fairgoer.
Key Ingredients and Flavors: Hot dog, bun, condiments (mustard, ketchup, relish). A classic for a reason.
Review/Opinion: Perfect for sharing (or not!), this footlong is a true crowd-pleaser. Generous in size and flavor, it’s a guaranteed hit.
Sweet Martha’s Cookies
And, of course, no trip is complete without a visit to Sweet Martha’s Cookies.
Vendor/Location: Multiple locations throughout the fair.
Description: Freshly baked, warm chocolate chip cookies sold by the bucketful. The aroma alone is enough to lure you in.
Key Ingredients and Flavors: Chocolate chips, butter, sugar, flour. Simple ingredients, heavenly results.
Review/Opinion: These cookies are legendary. Warm, gooey, and packed with chocolate chips, they are the ultimate fair treat. Be prepared to wait in line, but trust us, it’s worth it!
Thirst Quenchers and Beverage Bliss
Beyond the food, the beverages play a crucial role in keeping you refreshed as you navigate the fairgrounds. With so many options, you’ll find something to quench your thirst.
You can find all the classics, such as:
- Freshly squeezed lemonade. A perfect choice on a hot day, offering a burst of citrusy refreshment.
- Iced coffee, a great boost to keep going all day
- A wide selection of sodas and bottled water
For those looking for something a bit stronger, beer gardens and vendors offer a vast array of craft beers, local brews, and other alcoholic beverages. Responsible drinking is a must, of course!
Options for Every Palate
The MN State Fair Foods scene is becoming increasingly inclusive. Thankfully, there are many options for vegans, vegetarians, and those with other dietary needs.
Look for vendors that highlight their plant-based offerings. Many offer veggie burgers, vegan sausages, and other delicious options.
Gluten-free options are becoming more prevalent as well, with vendors now offering gluten-free buns, wraps, and even fried treats.
Always check the menu boards and inquire with the vendors about ingredients and preparation methods to ensure the food aligns with your dietary restrictions.
Navigating the Fairgrounds: Tips for Foodies
To truly conquer the MN State Fair Foods scene, some strategic planning is crucial.
- Set a Budget: The cost of food can add up quickly. Decide on a daily budget and stick to it. Consider bringing cash to avoid additional fees.
- Plan Your Route: The fairgrounds are expansive. Review a map beforehand and prioritize the food vendors and items you want to try.
- Take Advantage of the Fair’s Food Finder: Utilize the official MN State Fair website or app to locate vendors and view menus. This will save you time and help you map out your food journey.
- Beat the Crowds: Consider visiting during the weekdays or early in the day to avoid long lines.
- Share and Sample: Share plates with friends and family to try a wider variety of dishes.
In Conclusion: A Delicious Destination
The 2024 Minnesota State Fair is more than just an event; it’s an experience. And at the heart of that experience are the MN State Fair Foods. Whether you’re a devoted fan of the classics or an adventurous foodie eager to explore the new offerings, the fair offers something for everyone.
So, put on your walking shoes, bring your appetite, and prepare for a delicious adventure. The 2024 MN State Fair is calling, with promises of flavor, fun, and unforgettable memories. Don’t miss out on the culinary adventure of the year! Go forth and explore!
Remember to share your favorite fair food finds with your friends and on social media using the official hashtags. Enjoy the Great Minnesota Get-Together!
