The Minnesota State Fair: a late summer pilgrimage for many, where the scent of corn dogs mingles with the sounds of laughter and the thrill of the midway. But for many, the true draw isn’t the rides or the blue ribbon livestock; it’s the food. Each year, the announcement of new food items is met with anticipation, speculation, and a collective rumble of stomachs. The sheer variety and often audacious creativity of the offerings have cemented the fair’s reputation as a culinary adventure unlike any other.
The anticipation is over! The big reveal is here. The fair organizers have just announced a mouthwatering array of new temptations, ready to tantalize your taste buds at the great Minnesota get-together of twenty twenty-four. This year’s lineup promises a mix of sweet, savory, and downright surprising treats. We’re diving into the most buzzworthy additions to the fair’s culinary landscape, ensuring you’re well-equipped to conquer the grounds with fork in hand. From the adventurous eater seeking the next big thing to those craving classic flavors with a unique twist, the State Fair truly has something for everyone this year.
Pickle Pizza Perfection
Pizza is a staple of American cuisine, and pickles are definitely an acquired taste. But when combined, they create something truly special. Imagine a crispy, thin-crust pizza smothered in a creamy dill sauce, topped with slices of tangy dill pickles, and a generous sprinkle of melted cheese. This unexpected combination of flavors creates a surprisingly addictive taste sensation, appealing to both pickle fanatics and pizza lovers alike. The Pickle Pizza Perfection can be found at Pizza Pie Stand, situated near the center of the action. It is expected to be a popular choice this year and the early buzz is growing. It is a must-try for anyone looking for something completely different. We don’t have an official price just yet, but expect it to be similar to other specialty pizzas at the stand.
Bacon-Wrapped Waffle Dog Wonder
Take a classic corn dog, replace the cornmeal batter with a fluffy waffle, and then wrap the whole thing in crispy, smoky bacon. Sounds like a heart attack waiting to happen, right? Maybe, but it also sounds incredibly delicious. The Bacon-Wrapped Waffle Dog Wonder delivers on its promise of salty, sweet, and savory in every bite. This culinary creation provides a wonderful crunch on the outside, soft waffle interior, and a juicy dog in the middle. Sold at the Waffle Wonders booth, you will find them right on the main drag. This is an interesting combination of two fair favorites. The price is to be determined, but the food bloggers are expecting a price near the average corn dog price.
Mango Madness on a Stick
For those craving a taste of the tropics amidst the hearty fair fare, Mango Madness on a Stick offers a refreshing and vibrant option. Chunks of ripe, juicy mango are skewered, lightly grilled, and drizzled with a tangy lime and chili sauce. The sweetness of the mango is perfectly balanced by the spice of the chili and the acidity of the lime. It’s a light, flavorful, and surprisingly healthy treat amidst the sea of deep-fried goodness. Find this colorful creation at the International Delights stall. It promises a taste of summer with every bite. No price announced yet. This will be located in the international foods section of the fair.
Deep-Fried Deviled Eggs
Deviled eggs are a party favorite, and at the Minnesota State Fair, they’re taking a plunge into the fryer. This innovative dish features hard-boiled eggs, halved, filled with a creamy, spiced yolk mixture, breaded, and then deep-fried to golden perfection. The result is a crispy exterior that gives way to a warm, savory, and slightly decadent center. This is comfort food turned up to eleven. It is expected to be a fan favorite due to the nostalgia and delicious flavor. Located at the Fried Fantastic Food, be sure to get there early to beat the lines. This will be a hot seller this year.
The Lavender Lemonade Dream
Thirsty for something other than beer or soda? The Lavender Lemonade Dream offers a sophisticated and refreshing alternative. This beautifully hued beverage combines the tartness of lemonade with the floral notes of lavender. Served chilled with a sprig of lavender for garnish, it’s a feast for both the eyes and the palate. The lavender-lemonade combination has been growing in popularity across the Midwest, and is expected to do great at the State Fair. Find this delightful drink at the Lemonade Lovers booth, known for their creative lemonade concoctions. A quote from the owner suggests that they will be using all organic lavender from a local farm. This should be the perfect way to cool off on a hot day.
Korean Street Corn Sensation
Elevating the classic corn-on-the-cob, the Korean Street Corn Sensation brings a taste of Seoul to the Midwest. Grilled corn is slathered with a sweet and spicy gochujang-based sauce, topped with toasted sesame seeds, and sprinkled with chopped green onions. It’s a flavor explosion in every bite, combining the sweetness of the corn with the umami of the gochujang and the nutty aroma of sesame seeds. This is a trendy food item that has garnered national attention. The vendor is bringing this to the Minnesota State Fair to give it a chance. Located at the International Food Plaza, be sure to grab this while it’s hot.
Strawberry Shortcake Supreme
Nothing says summer like strawberry shortcake, and the Minnesota State Fair’s version takes this classic dessert to new heights. Fluffy, buttery biscuits are topped with mounds of fresh, locally grown strawberries and a generous dollop of whipped cream. It’s a simple yet satisfying treat that celebrates the flavors of the season. This will be located at the Sweet Treat location. Get there early because they will be gone quickly. Strawberry shortcake is very popular, and the expectation is this will be one of the top-selling new items.
Trend Spotting at the State Fair
Looking at this year’s new food lineup, a few trends are clearly emerging. First, there’s a continued emphasis on international flavors. The Korean Street Corn Sensation and Mango Madness on a Stick highlight the fair’s commitment to showcasing diverse culinary traditions. Second, the “everything’s better deep-fried” mentality is still going strong. Deep-Fried Deviled Eggs are the perfect example of how the fair embraces the quirky and unexpected. Finally, there’s a growing recognition of the importance of refreshing and lighter options. The Lavender Lemonade Dream provides a welcome respite from the heavier, more indulgent fare.
This year’s trends follow previous years in a logical fashion. We see the deep-fried obsession, we see the attempt at global flavors, and we still find the standard on-a-stick offering. These trends seem to grow each and every year, bringing larger crowds each and every year.
Beyond the New Delights
While the new foods always steal the spotlight, let’s not forget the returning favorites that make the State Fair a culinary institution. The Pronto Pup, the cheese curds, the Sweet Martha’s cookies – these are the classics that keep fairgoers coming back year after year. Be sure to check out the cooking demonstrations, where local chefs share their culinary secrets. And for the competitive types, the food competitions offer a chance to witness some truly impressive baking and preserving skills. And don’t forget the craft beer and wine selections! The fair has something for everyone to enjoy.
Navigating the Culinary Chaos
With so many tempting options, navigating the State Fair food scene can be a daunting task. Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your culinary adventure. Go early to avoid the longest lines. Consider sharing food with friends so you can try a wider variety of items without completely overdoing it. Before you go, check the fair’s website or app for a food map and vendor locations. This will help you plan your route and avoid getting lost in the crowd. But most importantly, remember to pace yourself! It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement and overeat, but take breaks and drink plenty of water to stay comfortable throughout the day. And for those with dietary restrictions, the fair offers a growing number of gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options. Be sure to check the vendor listings for specific information.
A Culinary Adventure Awaits
The twenty twenty-four Minnesota State Fair promises to be another year of culinary innovation and delicious indulgence. With its diverse range of new food items, from the Pickle Pizza Perfection to the Strawberry Shortcake Supreme, there’s something to satisfy every craving. So, gather your friends and family, grab your appetite, and get ready to embark on a food-filled adventure at the great Minnesota get-together.
Which of these new foods are you most excited to try? Let us know in the comments below! Because at the Minnesota State Fair, every bite is a memory in the making, and every year brings a new chapter to the story of the best food on a stick (or in a waffle, or deep-fried, or drizzled with lavender) in the Midwest. We can’t wait to see you all there!
