American Cuisine: State Fair

Picture this: it’s a warm summer day, and you’re with your favorite people. The sounds of joy and merriment surround you as people rocket through space on a rollercoaster, toss rings on a bottle in hopes of winning a giant stuffed-animal prize, and nervously await the judging of their beloved pygmy goat in the livestock competition. Then, the most delicious, mouth-watering scent hits you…

This is an American state fair – a collection of good times ranging from rides, games, and wacky culinary delights. We encourage all our participants to visit a local state fair while they’re living in the USA. If you can’t make it, or you’ve been and you can’t stop thinking about all the amazing food, read on as we share our favorite state fair food finds and provide recipes for you to recreate them at home.

Krispy Kreme Hamburger

There are two types of donut people – those who choose hardened glaze and those who choose wet glaze. If you’re the wet glaze type, then Krispy Kreme’s donuts drenched with gooey icing are made for you. Transition the donut from breakfast to lunch/dinner by filling it with classic burger toppings – a well-cooked burger and melted cheese…go even further with crispy bacon or a fried egg. Your arteries may have a shock, but this savory-sweet combination is worth every bite! Visit Krispy Kreme’s website for their donut burger recipe.

Original Cream Puffs

With close to one quarter of the United States’ dairy farms, the state of Wisconsin has become known as “America’s Dairyland”. The Wisconsin Baker’s Association created the original cream puff in 1924, which showcases their dairy industry by sandwiching fresh whipped cream between two choux pastry buns. The original cream puff has become a must-eat at the Wisconsin state fair, with over 400,000 sold over the eleven days of the fair. Over 150 people work 24/7 over a two week period to bake these famous creations! For the ultimate original cream puff lovers, the fair even has an original cream puff eating contest. Think you could compete? Practice with homemade original cream puffs.

Corn Dogs

While corn dogs aren’t as unique as the foods listed above, they are an integral part of state fair food culture. An American classic, the corn dog features a hot dog connected to a convenient holding stick covered in cornmeal batter and, of course, deep fried. This savory bite was introduced to the Texas State Fair in the late 1930s by two Vaudeville performers. Today the timeless corn dog can be purchased at every state fair, and fair-goers can keep their eyes out for new variations, like a double bacon wrapped corn dog or an 18-inch corn dog. Have a taste of the fair by munching on your own hot dog on a stick.

Deep Fried Oreo

Deep fried foods are a state fair staple. The fast cooking time benefits food vendors and the taste is appealing to almost everyone. Over the years, state fairs have become a hot-spot for deep fried innovations. Deep fried marshmallows? Check. Deep fried coke-a-cola? Check. Deep friend peanut butter and jelly sandwich? Check. In 2002, state fair foodies were introduced to a new hit – the deep fried Oreo. The Oreo was invented in America and is comprised of two chocolate wafers and a crème filling. The deep fried version features a buttermilk pancake mix coating and is fried in vegetable oil. Originally debuted at the Los Angeles County Fair, you can now find this treat at fairs across the country. Enjoy it yourself by following this deep fried Oreo recipe at home.

Chocolate-Covered Bacon

The Minnesota State Fair hosted the first appearance of chocolate-covered bacon, which they named Pig Lickers, on the state fair scene. It’s a simple but delicious combination of salty and sweet. Plus, it’s on a stick, which is necessary for excited fair-goers to savor their snack while continuing to explore the fair grounds. Indulge in this treat that won’t disappoint by whipping up your own chocolate-covered bacon.

K.Leigh FurzerSeptember 25, 2020USA Culture