Delicious Delights at the Monroe County Fair: What to Eat!

When the Monroe County Fair rolls into town, it brings with it a smorgasbord of culinary delights that cater to every palette, from the conventional to the adventurous. Whether you’re a foodie on a quest for unique creations or a fairgoer simply hungry for traditional fair treats, the Monroe County Fair has got you covered. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the standout foods that you absolutely cannot miss. From the best sandwich featuring an Elk burger to the weirdest food that is the Pickle popsicle, the fair offers a wide array of gastronomic wonders. We’ll also dive into the delectable dessert known as Ice cream nachos, the savory Dump fries, and even a “healthy” fair food option with deep-fried veggies. Let’s take this culinary journey together and uncover the mouthwatering bites that make the Monroe County Fair a must-visit for food enthusiasts.

Best sandwich: Elk burger

The Elk burger has quickly become a crowd favorite at the Monroe County Fair, and for good reason. This succulent burger stands out not just for its unique protein but for its rich, gamey flavor that sets it apart from the typical beef burger. Topped with fresh lettuce, tomato, crispy onions, and a tangy aioli, the Elk burger provides an elevated twist on a classic sandwich. The patty itself is juicy and packed with flavors that blend perfectly with the fresh ingredients and soft, toasted bun. The preparation of the Elk burger also speaks volumes about its quality. Local farmers supply the elk meat, ensuring it’s fresh and ethically sourced. This contributes to not just the superior taste but also supports sustainable practices. Fairgoers have raved about this dish, noting that it’s both satisfying and surprisingly sophisticated for fair food. Taken together, the Elk burger isn’t just a meal; it’s a culinary experience that makes the Monroe County Fair stand out.

Weirdest food: Pickle popsicle

If there’s one thing the Monroe County Fair excels at, it’s offering foods that make you raise an eyebrow in wonder. The Pickle popsicle takes the crown for the weirdest food at this year’s fair. This briny, icy treat might sound bizarre at first, but it has garnered a dedicated fan base. Imagine biting into a frozen treat with the tangy punch of a dill pickle—certainly not something you encounter every day. The concept behind the Pickle popsicle is to offer a refreshing, palate-cleansing snack amidst the often heavy, fried offerings found at the fair. Its unique flavor profile isn’t just a novelty; it’s surprisingly refreshing. Many patrons have found the salty, vinegary flavor to be an excellent way to cool down on a hot summer day. This quirky treat has become quite the conversation starter, encouraging fairgoers to step out of their culinary comfort zones and try something truly different.

Best dessert: Ice cream nachos

If you thought nachos were exclusively a savory delight, think again. The Monroe County Fair’s Ice cream nachos flip that notion on its head. This inventive dessert features a bed of crispy, cinnamon-sugar-coated tortilla chips topped with scoops of velvety ice cream, drizzled with chocolate and caramel sauce, and sprinkled with nuts and rainbow sprinkles. The combination is a delicious assault on the senses, offering a feast of textures and flavors. What makes Ice cream nachos especially delightful is the contrast between the warm, crunchy tortilla chips and the cold, creamy ice cream. The melding of sweet and slightly spicy cinnamon with rich chocolate and caramel creates a dessert experience that feels both indulgent and playful. It’s the perfect treat to share with friends or family as you wander the fairgrounds. Fairgoers of all ages have given this dish rave reviews, praising it for its imaginative twist on traditional nachos.

Best fried potatoes: Dump fries

Among the myriad of fried foods available, the Dump fries reign supreme. These aren’t your typical fries; they come loaded with a plethora of toppings, creating a mouthwatering mountain of flavors and textures. Picture golden, crispy fries smothered in gooey cheese, savory bacon bits, fresh scallions, and a generous dollop of sour cream. Each bite is a symphony of crunchy, creamy, and savory notes that keep you coming back for more. The beauty of Dump fries lies in their versatility. They can be a hearty snack or a satisfying meal depending on the portion size. Fairgoers love the customizable nature of this dish, as you can often choose additional toppings or sauces to make it your own. Many visitors have dubbed Dump fries the ultimate fair food, noting that they encapsulate the essence of indulgence and fun that defines the fair experience.

Best “healthy” food: Deep-fried veggies

While the Monroe County Fair is a haven for indulgent treats, there are options for those looking to keep things on the healthier side—relatively speaking. Deep-fried veggies offer a guilt-tinged nod towards health-consciousness amidst the more decadent options. Think broccoli, cauliflower, and zucchini, generously coated in a crispy batter and fried to golden perfection. Served with your choice of dipping sauces, these veggies bring a satisfying crunch and a burst of flavor that can appeal to both health nuts and fried food enthusiasts alike. The nutritional advantage of deep-fried veggies lies in their base ingredients, which retain some of their health benefits despite the frying process. Many fairgoers appreciate this dish as a way to enjoy the quintessential fair food experience without completely abandoning their dietary goals. Plus, these veggies make for an excellent sharing platter, allowing friends and family to partake in a slightly lighter, but still indulgent, fair treat. With each bite, you’re reminded that sometimes, even the most decadent offerings can have a hint of wholesomeness.

Future prospects

As the Monroe County Fair continues to evolve, its food offerings are likely to become even more diverse and captivating.