Last Saturday, attendees at the Indiana State Fair were treated to a culinary adventure as food enthusiast Oya Woodruff explored 17 out of the 33 new items featured on the Taste of the Fair list. Her mission included sampling innovative dishes, supporting local Black-owned businesses at the fair, and seeking out breakfast delicacies.
The top five items from the food festival represent a mix of traditional flavors and modern twists:
1. **Sweet Heat Sausage Sandwich from R&W Concessions** – Rated 3 bites, this sandwich features a spicy jalapeño sausage, rich with cheese and complemented by sautéed vegetables and a sweet BBQ sauce, making it a must-try for fairgoers.
2. **Dirty Dancing Eggrolls from J&J Taste of Home** – Also receiving a perfect score of 3 bites, these crispy egg rolls filled with chicken and spices are enhanced by a well-balanced hot honey lemon pepper buffalo sauce, making them a standout dish.
3. **All-Vegan Indianapolis Philly from Black Leaf Vegan** – With a rating of 2.7 bites, this impressive vegan sandwich uses seitan to mimic traditional beef, providing a satisfying texture along with exceptional sauces, proving that plant-based options can be just as delightful.
4. **Pineapple Lemonade Shake-up from McWaters Concessions** – This refreshing beverage scored 2.5 sips, offering a smooth twist on the classic lemonade shake-up that is sure to quench the summer heat.
5. **Jessop’s Butterscotch Apple Crunch from Jessop’s Candy Products** – Also rated 2.5 bites, this dessert features tart apples drizzled with warm butterscotch and topped with crunchy popcorn and pecans, satisfying both sweet and texture desires.
Among the remaining items, several notable mentions such as Tropical Thunder and Piggie Funnel also earned kudos but may not have reached the elite ranks of the top scorers. Overall, Woodruff’s experience at the fair emphasizes the rich variety of flavors and the celebration of local businesses that contribute to the Indiana State Fair’s vibrant culinary landscape.
This annual event continues to highlight innovation in fair food while bringing communities together through diverse culinary traditions. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, the Indiana State Fair remains an exciting destination for unique food experiences that can leave lasting memories.