Fair Fare
August 2017
Fairs are popular destinations throughout the nation. In less than one month in 2016, about 2.4 million people visited the State Fair of Texas. Americans love fairs for the rides, games and even educational exhibits—but there’s one reason why most keep coming back for more: the food. Fair food staples include funnel cakes, turkey legs, corn dogs and all kinds of fried sweets.
Fair foods have long been treats people look forward to during fair season. Now, there's no need to wait. Restaurants across the country are using fair foods as inspiration for menu items available year-round.
Chicago’s Rockit Burger Bar has offered a glazed doughnut burger reminiscent of over-the-top fair food classics. Victor Tangos in Dallas has served the Turkey Cobb Leg: a giant brined turkey leg served atop a Cobb salad. Mexican restaurant Xoco of Chicago features an array of decadent churros, such as chocolate-peanut, pistachio and hazelnut.
These operations are adapting fair foods to meet customers’ demands for decadence, and you can too. Try turkey recipes to give your fair food creations an unexpectedly better-for-you twist:
- Turkey Pick-Up Sticks: Fair food is all about portability. Create a savory snack on a stick for a fun option patrons can take on the go.
- Grilled Sesame Turkey Kebabs: These fun and flavorful kebabs bring Mediterranean flair to turkey on a stick.
- Ruffled Crêpes Isabel: Bring sweet and savory flavors together for a great-tasting, better-for-you fair favorite with a twist.
Find more delicious recipes in our Culinary Center, and share your favorite fair fare on our Facebook page.
SOURCES
Moran, Dana. 6 fair food ideas to steal, FoodService Director, May 2017.
Livingston, Shelby. EAT LIKE YOU’RE AT THE STATE FAIR WITH THESE FOODS AROUND CHICAGO, MICHIGAN AVENUE, August 2016.
Downes, Catherine. Eat These 7 State Fair-Inspired Foods, D Magazine, September 2016.
