Indulge in the Culinary Delights of the 2024 North Carolina State Fair

The 2024 North Carolina State Fair is set to be a gastronomic paradise, with a tantalizing array of new food options that cater to every palate. From deep-fried delicacies to sweet treats, this year's fair promises to be a haven for food enthusiasts.

Savor the Unexpected at the North Carolina State Fair

Savory Sensations: Exploring the Top New Fair Food Options

The 2024 North Carolina State Fair is poised to delight visitors with an impressive lineup of 72 new food options, many of which feature the beloved pickle. While the media sampling event did not include any pickle-based dishes, it did offer a chance to sample some of the fair's most anticipated savory offerings.One standout is the Alaskan King Crab Pop from Oak City Fish and Chips. This deep-fried crab leg, topped with a refreshing lemon, is a simple yet delectable treat that is sure to have fairgoers lining up. Another crowd-pleaser is the Honey Butter Mozza Dog from GoldenKDog, a sweet and savory creation featuring deep-fried mozzarella cheese drizzled with a honey butter sauce.For those seeking a heartier option, the Deep Fried Ribs from Lawrence and Perry BBQ are a must-try. These ribs, available in a variety of sauces, including barbecue, lemon pepper, Carolina gold, and sweet chili jerk, promise to satisfy even the most discerning palate.The media's choice for the best new savory dish at the fair is the Jerk Pork Belly Bao from Cool Runnings Jamaican. This slow-cooked jerk pork belly nestled in a soft bao bun is a delightful fusion of flavors that showcases the fair's commitment to culinary innovation.Other notable savory options include the Korean BBQ Kimchi Nachos from Bulkogi Korean BBQ, the Mema Mia from Ezzell's Something Good, and the NC Crab and Shrimp Bomb Crusted in Hot Cheetos from Waypoint Oyster Bar. Each of these dishes offers a unique twist on classic fair fare, ensuring that there is something to tantalize every taste bud.

Sweet Treats: Indulging in the Fair's Newest Dessert Delights

While the savory options have certainly captured the attention of fairgoers, the 2024 North Carolina State Fair also boasts an impressive lineup of new sweet treats. One standout is the Granny Cone from Magdalena's Chimney Cakes, which was named the media's favorite new sweet food. This sugar and cinnamon-coated fried dough cone is filled with maple bacon ice cream and topped with a buttery corn cake and Frosted Flakes, creating a delightful and unique dessert experience.Another tempting option is the Chocolate Dipped Strawberry Iced Tea from Tiki Tea. This refreshing strawberry iced tea is served with chocolate-dipped strawberries on a stick, making it the perfect refreshment for a hot day at the fair.For those seeking a more indulgent dessert, the Simba Dessert from Safari Eatz features a viapati (similar to a flour tortilla/dough) filled with apple, vanilla ice cream, and caramel sauce. The Minne Cookie Dough Pie from The Original Minneapple Pie stand is another must-try, offering a delectable combination of fried chocolate chip cookie dough wrapped in flaky crust and served with ice cream.Finally, the Summerween Slush from Moose Joose Slush is a unique and whimsical treat. This orange creamsicle-flavored slush is served in a Jack-O-Lantern cup, complete with whipped cream and a Halloween-themed duck, making it a perfect choice for those who want to indulge in a bit of seasonal fun.

Honorable Mentions: Exploring the Fair's Other Noteworthy Newcomers

While the top savory and sweet options have undoubtedly captured the spotlight, the 2024 North Carolina State Fair also features several other notable new food items that are worth exploring. The Battered Bologna Fries from Granny's Country Kitchen, for instance, offer a unique twist on a classic fair food, with deep-fried bologna fries served with a tantalizing Carolina gold dipping sauce.Another intriguing option is the Cowboy Bites from Fat Boys BBQ, which feature a delightful combination of smoked white cheddar cheese and brisket, rolled in panko and deep-fried. The Fried Cheesy Croissant from La Farm Bakery, with its fried pastry topped with cheddar cheese and jalapeno slices, is also a tempting choice for those seeking a savory and slightly spicy treat.Finally, the Granddaddy Nats Fufu Plate from Ethio-Indi Alkaline Cuisine offers a more substantial meal option, featuring a burger topped with gravy, gomen greens, and fufu, a traditional African starch. This dish provides a unique and satisfying alternative to the typical fair fare, catering to those seeking a more substantial and culturally diverse culinary experience.As the 2024 North Carolina State Fair approaches, food enthusiasts can look forward to an unparalleled gastronomic adventure, with a diverse array of new and innovative offerings that cater to every taste and preference. Whether you're craving savory delights or sweet indulgences, this year's fair promises to be a true haven for food lovers, offering a culinary experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression.