The Minnesota State Fair is a beloved annual event that draws in crowds from all over the state and beyond. With its wide array of fried foods, sugary treats, and unique drinks, it’s a food lover’s paradise. The 2024 fair promises to be no different, with nearly three dozen new offerings and six new vendors for fairgoers to explore.
The WCCO team has taken on the important task of sampling some of the notable new offerings at the fair and providing their ratings to help attendees navigate the plethora of choices. From must-try items to those that may not be worth the calories, they have it all covered.
One of the standout new offerings is the Deep-Fried Ranch Dressing from LuLu’s Public House. Described as ranch dressing filling made with ranch seasoning, buttermilk, and cream cheese in a panko shell, deep-fried and dusted with ranch powder, this unique creation received a rating of 2. While the hot honey sauce accompanying the dish was praised, the overall flavor fell short of expectations.
Another intriguing item is the Grilled Purple Sticky Rice from Union Hmong Kitchen. Grilled over an open flame until crunchy and topped with shredded Hmong beef jerky or pickled mushrooms, this dish received a rating of 3. Despite the slightly dry rice and crumbly texture, the savory flavor and generous portion size made it a worthwhile choice.
For those with a sweet tooth, the Fried Bee-Nana Pie from Sabino’s Pizza Pies is a must-try. Filled with Minnesota honey, fresh banana, and Biscoff cookie butter, this handmade pie is battered and deep-fried to perfection. The combination of flavors is described as euphoric, earning it a top rating of 4.
Other notable offerings include the Afro Poppers from Afro Deli, the Buffalo Cheese Curd & Chicken Tacos from Richie’s Cheese Curd Tacos, and the Cotton Candy Iced Tea from Loon Lake Iced Tea, all receiving high ratings from the WCCO team.
Overall, the 2024 Minnesota State Fair promises to be a culinary adventure with a wide variety of new and exciting food options to explore. Whether you’re a fan of traditional fair fare or looking to try something new and innovative, there’s something for everyone at this year’s fair. So grab your stretchy pants and get ready to indulge in all the fried goodness and sugary delights the fair has to offer.