Brian Twomey's Culinary Tour of America's Biggest State Fairs

By Brian Twomey, Dallas-Based Food & Beverage Writer and Investor

Summer in America means sunshine, rollercoasters, and most importantly, an explosion of unforgettable flavors at our beloved state fairs! These aren't just agricultural showcases; they're gastronomic battlegrounds where creativity and calories collide. If you're looking for the ultimate foodie adventure, prepare your taste buds – we're diving fork-first into the most popular and outlandish eats at America's biggest state fairs, all designed to get you scrolling and salivating!

Why State Fair Food Reigns Supreme

As a Dallas-based food and beverage investor and writer, I've seen countless trends come and go, but the enduring appeal of state fair food is a constant. It's more than just a meal; it's an experience. It's the annual permission slip to indulge, to try something new, and to embrace the sheer joy of over-the-top culinary creations. From tried-and-true classics to dishes that defy description, fair food is a uniquely American tradition that keeps us coming back year after year.

The Heavy Hitters: Crowd Favorites You Can't Miss

No state fair experience is complete without sampling some of the legendary staples that draw millions. These are the dishes that define "fair food" and are practically mandatory for any visitor.

• Corn Dogs: The undisputed king of convenience, the corn dog is a perfect symphony of savory sausage encased in a sweet, crispy cornmeal batter. Easy to eat on the go, it's a timeless classic that appeals to all ages.

• Funnel Cakes: A sugary, fried dough masterpiece dusted with powdered sugar, the funnel cake is a textural delight – crispy edges giving way to a soft, airy interior. Often served with fruit, whipped cream, or chocolate, it's a sweet indulgence that screams "state fair!"

• Fried Oreos: A modern classic, the fried Oreo takes everyone's favorite cookie and elevates it to a new level of decadence. Dipped in batter and deep-fried, the warm, gooey cookie with its melted creme filling is pure bliss.

• Turkey Legs: Channel your inner medieval feast-goer with a massive, smoky turkey leg. This hearty, caveman-style meal is tender, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying, offering a substantial break from the fried treats.

  
  

Pushing the Boundaries: The Most Outlandish Offerings

Now, for those who seek adventure with their appetite, state fairs are renowned for their boundary-pushing, head-scratching, and often surprisingly delicious creations. These are the dishes that generate buzz and often become viral sensations.

• Deep-Fried Butter (Iowa State Fair): Yes, you read that right. Cubes of butter are battered and deep-fried, resulting in a surprisingly rich and creamy treat that melts in your mouth. It's an experience you have to try at least once!

• Pickle Dog (Minnesota State Fair): A dill pickle spear hollowed out and stuffed with a bratwurst, then wrapped in bacon and deep-fried. It's a salty, savory, and utterly unique combination that has garnered a cult following.

• Spam Curds (Wisconsin State Fair): Wisconsin is famous for its cheese curds, but the Spam curds take things up a notch. Cubes of Spam are battered and fried, offering a salty, crispy, and decidedly different take on a fair favorite.

• Hot Beef Sundae (Iowa State Fair): Don't let the name fool you – there's no ice cream here! This savory sundae features mashed potatoes as the base, topped with slow-roasted beef, gravy, a dollop of sour cream, and a cherry tomato "cherry." It's comfort food ingeniously disguised.

• Fried Kool-Aid (Various Fairs): Balls of batter infused with Kool-Aid powder are deep-fried and often served with a sweet glaze. It's a burst of fruity flavor in a crispy package, proving that almost anything can be fried!

• Cotton Candy Burrito (Texas State Fair): As a Dallas local, I can't talk about fair food without mentioning the State Fair of Texas! This iconic, Instagram-worthy creation involves a massive cloud of cotton candy wrapped around scoops of ice cream and an array of sugary toppings. It's a whimsical, over-the-top dessert that's as fun to look at as it is to eat.

  
  

Plan Your Culinary Fair Adventure!

Whether you're a purist who sticks to the classics or an adventurous eater always on the hunt for the next viral sensation, America's biggest state fairs offer an unparalleled culinary journey. So, grab your stretchy pants, gather your friends, and get ready to indulge in the glorious, greasy, and always unforgettable world of state fair food!

Which state fair food is your favorite? What's the wildest thing you've ever tried? Share your fair food stories in the comments below!