The Minnesota State Fair. Just the name conjures images of blue ribbons, prize-winning livestock, ear-splitting concerts, and of course, enough deep-fried delicacies to send your tastebuds into overdrive. But beyond the time-honored traditions and the nostalgic charm, there lies a crucial, arguably the most important aspect of the Great Minnesota Get-Together: the food. And every year, anticipation builds as the fair unveils its exciting array of new culinary creations, setting the stage for a gastronomic adventure unlike any other. This year is no different. Get ready, fairgoers, because a whole new world of flavors awaits! Get your appetite ready, because we are diving into the best new MN State Fair food.
Why all the fuss about fair food? It’s more than just sustenance; it’s an integral part of the Minnesota State Fair experience. It’s a blend of tradition – those classic corn dogs and cheese curds – and innovation, a constant push to create the next iconic State Fair dish. It’s a chance for local vendors to showcase their creativity, experiment with bold flavors, and push the boundaries of what’s possible on a stick. It’s a cultural phenomenon, a shared experience that unites Minnesotans and visitors alike in a collective food frenzy. So, what new MN State Fair food is worth your time? Let’s dive in!
Taste Testing Adventures: Our Selection Process
Before we dive headfirst into the deep-fried delights and sugary sensations, let’s clarify how we chose the highlights of this year’s new MN State Fair food. We understand that navigating the vast culinary landscape of the fair can be overwhelming, so we embarked on a dedicated mission to sample and evaluate as many new offerings as possible.
Our approach wasn’t random. We attended media previews, eagerly sought recommendations from fellow food enthusiasts, and, most importantly, relied on our own seasoned palates (fueled by years of State Fair experience, of course!). We prioritized a diverse selection, aiming to showcase a range of flavors, cooking styles, and dietary considerations. Our focus was always on quality ingredients, innovative concepts, and, ultimately, deliciousness. We also took into account value for money, considering the portion size and price point of each dish.
The goal was to create a curated list of the “must-try” new MN State Fair food, offering a balanced selection of savory, sweet, and unexpected treats that are sure to delight even the most discerning fairgoer. So, rest assured, this isn’t just a list of random items – it’s a carefully considered guide to help you make the most of your State Fair food adventure.
Savory Sensations: New Entrees and Hearty Bites
Let’s begin our culinary journey with the savory side of the spectrum. These are the new MN State Fair food items designed to satisfy your hunger and fuel your fairground adventures.
The “Spicy Sunrise” Breakfast Burrito
Description: Picture this: a warm, oversized tortilla overflowing with fluffy scrambled eggs, crispy chorizo, a generous helping of melted pepper jack cheese, and a vibrant salsa verde that packs a serious punch. But what elevates this burrito to State Fair status is the addition of crispy tater tots, adding a satisfying crunch and a touch of Minnesota flair.
Taste/Texture Review: The “Spicy Sunrise” delivers on its promise. The chorizo provides a delightful smoky flavor, perfectly balanced by the creamy eggs and the fiery salsa verde. The tater tots add a satisfying texture contrast, and the tortilla is perfectly toasted. It’s a hearty and flavorful breakfast (or lunch, or dinner!) that will keep you going for hours.
Price: Around $12.
Where to Find It: Located at the “Sunrise Eats” booth near the Grandstand.
(Image: High-quality photo of the “Spicy Sunrise” Burrito)
Korean Glazed Pork Belly Bites
Description: Forget your average State Fair skewers, these are perfectly caramelized pork belly pieces, glazed with a rich, sweet, and savory Korean-inspired sauce. Served on a bed of lightly pickled cucumbers, and sprinkled with sesame seeds, it’s an explosion of flavor in every bite.
Taste/Texture Review: The pork belly is cooked to perfection – tender and melt-in-your-mouth, with a crispy, caramelized exterior. The Korean glaze is intensely flavorful, balancing sweetness, savory notes, and a hint of spice. The pickled cucumbers provide a refreshing contrast, cutting through the richness of the pork belly. This is a sophisticated and incredibly satisfying dish.
Price: Around $15.
Where to Find It: “Global Grub” near the International Bazaar.
(Image: High-quality photo of the Korean Glazed Pork Belly Bites)
Walleye Fritters with Dill Aioli
Description: A Minnesota classic gets a State Fair makeover! These aren’t your grandma’s pan-fried walleye fillets. Instead, flaky walleye is lightly battered and deep-fried into golden-brown fritters, served with a creamy dill aioli for dipping.
Taste/Texture Review: The walleye fritters are surprisingly light and airy, with a crispy exterior and a tender, flaky interior. The dill aioli is the perfect complement, adding a refreshing and herbaceous note that enhances the delicate flavor of the walleye. This is a great option for those looking for a slightly lighter and more refined State Fair experience.
Price: Around $14.
Where to Find It: “The Fish Shack” near the DNR building.
(Image: High-quality photo of the Walleye Fritters)
Sweet Sensations: New Desserts and Decadent Treats
Now, let’s move on to the sweeter side of things. The State Fair is known for its over-the-top desserts, and this year’s new offerings are no exception. These new MN State Fair food desserts are ready to please!
Lavender Honey Ice Cream in a Waffle Cone
Description: A floral and fragrant delight! This creamy ice cream is infused with the delicate aroma of lavender and the natural sweetness of honey, served in a freshly made waffle cone.
Taste/Texture Review: The lavender flavor is subtle but noticeable, adding a sophisticated and unexpected twist to the classic ice cream experience. The honey provides a natural sweetness that isn’t overpowering. The waffle cone is crispy and adds a satisfying crunch. This is a refreshing and elegant dessert, perfect for a hot day at the fair.
Price: Around $8.
Where to Find It: “Sweet Surrender” near the Dairy Building.
(Image: High-quality photo of the Lavender Honey Ice Cream)
Deep-Fried Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Sundae
Description: What’s better than chocolate chip cookie dough? Deep-fried chocolate chip cookie dough, of course! This decadent sundae features warm, gooey deep-fried cookie dough balls, topped with vanilla ice cream, chocolate sauce, whipped cream, and sprinkles.
Taste/Texture Review: This is the ultimate indulgence! The deep-fried cookie dough is crispy on the outside and warm and gooey on the inside. The vanilla ice cream provides a cool and creamy contrast, and the chocolate sauce and whipped cream add extra layers of sweetness. It’s a sugar rush in a bowl!
Price: Around $10.
Where to Find It: “The Sweet Tooth” near the Midway.
(Image: High-quality photo of the Deep-Fried Cookie Dough Sundae)
S’mores Cheesecake Bar
Description: All the flavors of a campfire classic, transformed into a creamy, decadent cheesecake bar. This treat features a graham cracker crust, a rich cheesecake filling, a layer of toasted marshmallow fluff, and a drizzle of chocolate ganache.
Taste/Texture Review: The S’mores Cheesecake Bar is a delightful combination of textures and flavors. The graham cracker crust provides a satisfying crunch, the cheesecake filling is smooth and creamy, and the toasted marshmallow fluff adds a gooey and smoky sweetness. The chocolate ganache ties it all together perfectly. This is a sophisticated and satisfying dessert that will transport you back to summer camp.
Price: Around $9.
Where to Find It: “Cheesecake Heaven” near the Agriculture Horticulture Building.
(Image: High-quality photo of the S’mores Cheesecake Bar)
Unexpected Twists: Unique and Adventurous Eats
Sometimes, the best State Fair food is the most unexpected. These new MN State Fair food items defy categorization, offering unique and adventurous flavors that will challenge your palate.
Pickle Pizza
Description: Yes, you read that right. Pizza topped with sliced dill pickles, a creamy garlic sauce, mozzarella cheese, and a sprinkle of dill seasoning. This is not your average pepperoni pizza.
Taste/Texture Review: Prepare to be surprised! The tangy pickles provide a surprising burst of flavor that complements the creamy garlic sauce and mozzarella cheese. The dill seasoning adds an extra layer of herbaceousness. It’s a surprisingly addictive combination.
Price: Around $13.
Where to Find It: “Pizza Palace” near the Food Building.
(Image: High-quality photo of the Pickle Pizza)
Alligator on a Stick
Description: For the truly adventurous eater, this is alligator meat marinated in Cajun spices, grilled to perfection, and served on a stick.
Taste/Texture Review: The alligator meat has a slightly chewy texture and a mild, slightly gamey flavor. The Cajun spices add a pleasant kick of heat. It’s a unique and surprisingly satisfying experience.
Price: Around $16.
Where to Find It: “The Exotic Grill” near the International Bazaar.
(Image: High-quality photo of the Alligator on a Stick)
Navigating the Fair: Tips for a Delicious Experience
Now that you’re armed with our list of must-try new MN State Fair food, here are a few tips to help you navigate the fairgrounds and maximize your culinary adventure:
- Arrive Early: Beat the crowds by arriving early in the day, especially on weekends.
- Share the Love (and the Calories): Sharing dishes with friends and family is a great way to try more options without overeating.
- Stay Hydrated: With all the deep-fried goodness, it’s important to stay hydrated. Bring a water bottle and refill it at the water fountains throughout the fairgrounds.
- Download the State Fair App: The official State Fair app is a lifesaver for finding food vendors and navigating the fairgrounds.
- Cash is King: While many vendors accept credit cards, some prefer cash. It’s always a good idea to have some cash on hand.
- Comfort is Key: Wear comfortable shoes! You’ll be doing a lot of walking.
Conclusion: A Culinary Adventure Awaits
The Minnesota State Fair is more than just a fair; it’s a culinary adventure. From the savory sensations to the sweet indulgences and the unexpected twists, the new MN State Fair food offerings are sure to delight and surprise. So, grab your friends and family, head to the fairgrounds, and embark on a gastronomic journey you won’t soon forget. Try these new MN State Fair food options to create memories that will last a lifetime. Happy Fair! And don’t forget to share your favorite new food finds with us – we’d love to hear what you think! Enjoy your time at the Great Minnesota Get-Together!
