Minnesota State Fair food is a staple of the annual event, attracting visitors from all over the world to indulge in the unique and delicious offerings. The fair, which takes place over 12 days in late summer, features a vast array of food vendors serving up everything from classic corndogs and pronto pups to alligator bites and fried Oreos. With over 500 different food options available, there's something for every taste and dietary preference.
History of Minnesota State Fair Food
The Minnesota State Fair has a long history of serving up tasty treats, dating back to the early 20th century. One of the most iconic fair foods, the corndog, was introduced in 1942 by a vendor named George Boyington. The pronto pup, a similar food item made with a hot dog coated in a thick layer of cornmeal batter, was introduced in the 1960s and has remained a fair favorite ever since. Over the years, the types of food available at the fair have evolved to include a wide range of options, from traditional Midwestern fare like cheese curds and tater tot hotdish to more exotic options like shark bites and frog legs.
Popular Minnesota State Fair Foods
Some of the most popular foods at the Minnesota State Fair include the aforementioned corndogs and pronto pups, as well as other classic fair treats like funnel cakes, elephant ears, and cotton candy. Visitors can also find a variety of unique and quirky food options, such as deep-fried peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, chocolate-covered bacon, and alligator bites. For those looking for something a bit more substantial, the fair offers a range of savory options like burgers, sandwiches, and salads, as well as traditional Midwestern comfort foods like tater tot hotdish and cheese curds.
| Food Item | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Corndog | A hot dog coated in a thick layer of cornmeal batter, deep-fried to a golden brown | $5-$7 |
| Pronto Pup | A hot dog coated in a thick layer of cornmeal batter, deep-fried to a golden brown | $5-$7 |
| Funnel Cake | A sweet, deep-fried treat made with a batter of flour, sugar, and eggs, typically topped with powdered sugar | $6-$8 |
| Elephant Ear | A large, flat piece of dough that is deep-fried and typically topped with butter, cinnamon, and sugar | $6-$8 |
| Alligator Bites | Bite-sized pieces of alligator meat that are breaded and deep-fried, often served with a side of tangy dipping sauce | $8-$10 |
New and Unique Minnesota State Fair Foods
Each year, the Minnesota State Fair introduces a range of new and unique food options, offering visitors the chance to try something new and exciting. Some recent additions to the fair’s food lineup include shark bites, frog legs, and deep-fried peanut butter and jelly sandwiches. Visitors can also find a range of gluten-free, vegan, and other specialty options, making the fair a great destination for those with dietary restrictions.
Gluten-Free and Vegan Options at the Minnesota State Fair
In recent years, the Minnesota State Fair has made a concerted effort to increase the number of gluten-free and vegan options available to visitors. Some popular gluten-free options include corn dogs, pronto pups, and funnel cakes, while vegan options like veggie burgers and salads are also widely available. Visitors can also find a range of specialty options, such as gluten-free beer and vegan ice cream.
- Gluten-free corndogs and pronto pups
- Vegan veggie burgers and salads
- Gluten-free beer and vegan ice cream
- Fresh fruit and vegetable options
- Specialty options like gluten-free pizza and vegan mac and cheese
Minnesota State Fair Food Awards and Recognition
The Minnesota State Fair has received widespread recognition for its food options, with many of its vendors and dishes receiving awards and accolades. The fair has been named one of the top 10 state fairs in the country by USA Today, and its food options have been featured on TV shows like “Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives” and “Man v. Food.” Visitors can also vote for their favorite fair foods in the annual “Best of the Fair” awards, which recognize the top food vendors and dishes at the fair.
Best of the Fair Awards
The “Best of the Fair” awards are an annual tradition at the Minnesota State Fair, recognizing the top food vendors and dishes at the fair. Visitors can vote for their favorite fair foods in a range of categories, from classic corndogs and pronto pups to more unique and exotic options. The awards are a great way to discover new and exciting foods at the fair, and to recognize the hard work and dedication of the fair’s vendors and food providers.
| Category | Winner | Year |
|---|---|---|
| Best Classic Fair Food | Corndog | 2019 |
| Best Unique Fair Food | Shark Bites | 2020 |
| Best Dessert | Funnel Cake | 2018 |
| Best Beverage | Gluten-Free Beer | 2019 |
| Best Specialty Food | Vegan Veggie Burger | 2020 |
What are the most popular foods at the Minnesota State Fair?
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The most popular foods at the Minnesota State Fair include corndogs, pronto pups, funnel cakes, and elephant ears. Visitors can also find a range of unique and exotic options, such as shark bites, frog legs, and alligator bites.
Are there gluten-free and vegan options available at the Minnesota State Fair?
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Yes, the Minnesota State Fair offers a range of gluten-free and vegan options, including corndogs, pronto pups, veggie burgers, and salads. Visitors can also find specialty options like gluten-free beer and vegan ice cream.
How can I vote for my favorite fair foods in the “Best of the Fair” awards?
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Visitors can vote for their favorite fair foods in the “Best of the Fair” awards by visiting the fair’s website or by voting in person at the fair. The awards recognize the top food vendors and dishes at the fair, and are a great way to discover new and exciting foods.
