Spotlight on Local Culinary Talent: Chefs Featured at the Monroe County Fair

Monroe County Fair never disappoints when it comes to offering a culinary adventure through a variety of unique and mouth-watering foods. From savory to sweet, and even bizarre, the local chefs outdo themselves year after year. In this blog post, we’ll explore the standout dishes featured this year. We’ll start with the best sandwich, an elk burger that’s as satisfying as it is unexpected. Next, we’ll venture into the territory of the weirdest food with the surprisingly delightful pickle popsicle. For those with a sweet tooth, the best dessert, ice cream nachos, is an essential taste experience. If you’re a lover of crunchy, golden potatoes, the dump fries are sure to be your favorite. And lastly, we’ll explore the best attempt at healthy food: deep-fried veggies that offer a mix of guilt and pleasure. These dishes highlight the creativity and culinary skills of Monroe County’s local chefs, making the fair a must-visit event.

Best sandwich: Elk burger

Monroe County Fair’s competition for best sandwich was fierce, but the elk burger stood out as a definitive winner. Local chef Miranda Kline, known for her innovative takes on traditional dishes, crafted this masterpiece. The elk burger boasts a rich, gamey flavor that’s distinctly different from your everyday beef burger. Unlike beef, elk meat is lean yet tender, providing a satisfying bite without being overly greasy. The burger is paired with caramelized onions, fresh arugula, and a slice of creamy brie cheese. The combination of these toppings adds layers of flavor, from the sweetness of the onions to the peppery bite of the arugula and the smooth, decadent taste of melted brie. All of this is nestled within a freshly baked brioche bun, which adds a slight sweetness to every bite. Miranda’s elk burger not only showcases local ingredients but also elevates what a fair sandwich can be.

Weirdest food: Pickle popsicle

Taking the adventurous title of weirdest food, the pickle popsicle is sure to raise some eyebrows but ultimately intrigue the taste buds. Chef Dave “Pickle” Murray, a household name in Monroe County for his pickling prowess, devised this peculiar yet delicious treat. Made from dill pickle brine mixed with a touch of honey and a hint of garlic, this frozen delight is both refreshingly cool and tangy. While it may seem like an odd combination at first, the pickle popsicle is surprisingly addictive. The initial crunch gives way to a burst of tanginess, complemented by the slight sweetness of honey. Many fairgoers were skeptical at first but found themselves returning for seconds. It’s a bold departure from traditional fair foods but one that perfectly encapsulates the spirit of culinary creativity that Monroe County Fair is known for.

Best dessert: Ice cream nachos

If you have a sweet tooth, the ice cream nachos are guaranteed to be your new obsession. Susan Delgado, the pastry chef famous for her whimsical desserts, brings this creation to life. Imagine crispy, cinnamon-sugar tortilla chips loaded with scoops of vanilla bean ice cream, drizzled with rich caramel and chocolate sauces, then topped with fresh fruit and a dollop of whipped cream. This dessert hits all the right notes—crispy, creamy, sweet, and tangy. Each bite of the ice cream nachos is a delightful experience, as the varying textures and flavors come together in perfect harmony. The crispy tortilla chips provide a satisfying crunch, while the ice cream melts into a creamy sweetness. The fresh fruit adds a pop of color and a burst of freshness that complements the richer elements perfectly. It’s a shareable treat that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious, making it an instant hit among fair attendees.

Best fried potatoes: Dump Fries

Fried potatoes are a fair staple, but the dump fries at Monroe County Fair take it to a new level. Created by the father-son duo at Smith’s Fry Shack, these potatoes are not just fried; they’re loaded. The golden-brown fries are heaped with cheese, bacon bits, sour cream, and chives, transforming a simple snack into a decadent feast. The texture of the fries is a highlight—they’re crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. The toppings are generous, ensuring that every forkful is packed with flavor. The sharpness of the cheddar cheese melds beautifully with the salty, smoky bacon, while the sour cream adds a cooling contrast, and the chives offer a subtle hint of onion. These dump fries aren’t just a snack; they’re a meal worth savoring.

Best “healthy” food: Deep-fried veggies

Fair food isn’t usually synonymous with health, but the deep-fried veggies at Monroe County Fair offer a tasty middle ground. Chef Hannah Rothchild, known for her farm-to-table restaurant, has brought an innovative twist to the fair with her stand. She takes fresh, locally-sourced vegetables like zucchini, carrots, and cauliflower, dips them in a light tempura batter, and fries them until golden and crispy. What makes these deep-fried veggies “healthy” is the quality of the produce and the lightness of the batter. Each vegetable retains its natural flavor and texture, providing a satisfying crunch without being greasy. They are served with a variety of dipping sauces, from a tangy yogurt-based dressing to a spicy chipotle mayo, offering a palate-pleasing experience that even the health-conscious can enjoy. Hannah’s approach shows that even indulgent fair food can have a nutritious twist. The Monroe County Fair showcases the culinary talents of local chefs through a diverse array of unique and delectable foods. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty elk burger, a bizarre yet delightful pickle popsicle, indulgent ice cream nachos, satisfying dump fries, or surprisingly healthy deep-fried veggies, there’s something for every palate. These dishes not only highlight the creativity of Monroe County’s chefs but also celebrate local ingredients and traditions. “`html

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