State fairs are all about the bests and the biggests, the strongest oxen and fastest horses, the most perfectly spherical tomatoes and most delicious pies. Bring the summertime flavors of a state fair home with recipes for everything from spicy corn dogs to hearty chili to crunchy bread and butter pickles. These recipes first appeared in our June/July 2012 issue along with Jane and Michael Stern’s story Fair and Square.
Corn Dogs
Deep-fried, hand-held, and delicious with a smear of mustard, corn dogs are quintessential summertime fair food. This version boasts a flavorful batter spiked with cayenne and tangy buttermilk. See the recipe for Corn Dogs »
Ham Loaf
A signature dish at the Hamline United Methodist Church’s dining hall at the Minnesota State Fair, this rendition of meat loaf uses ground ham spiced with curry powder, ginger, and cloves, and is glazed with a sweet, vinegar-based sauce. See the recipe for Ham Loaf »
Swedish Egg Coffee
Even lesser-quality coffee becomes something special when made with the unusual addition of a beaten egg.
