Top 10 Must-Try Foods At The Oklahoma State Fair

The Oklahoma State Fair is more than just rides and games; it's a culinary adventure! Every year, the fairgrounds transform into a haven for food lovers, offering a delightful array of classic fair food and innovative, sometimes outrageous, creations. If you're planning a visit this year, you're in for a treat. To help you navigate the delicious chaos, we've compiled a list of the top 10 must-try foods at the Oklahoma State Fair. So, grab your stretchy pants, and let's dive into the gastronomic delights that await you!

1. Classic Corn Dog

Let's kick things off with a timeless classic: the corn dog. No trip to the fair is complete without sinking your teeth into this golden, crispy delight. A perfectly cooked corn dog boasts a juicy, savory hot dog encased in a sweet, slightly crunchy cornmeal batter. The contrast in textures and flavors is simply irresistible. What makes the Oklahoma State Fair corn dog stand out? Well, it's the attention to detail. Many vendors use high-quality hot dogs and freshly made batter, ensuring a superior taste experience. Plus, there's something nostalgic about strolling through the fairgrounds with a corn dog in hand, soaking in the sights and sounds. For the ultimate experience, be sure to add a generous squirt of mustard and ketchup. The tangy condiments complement the sweetness of the cornmeal and the savory sausage perfectly. Don't be afraid to try different variations, too! Some vendors offer cheese-filled corn dogs or even spicy versions for those who like a little kick. Whether you're a seasoned fair-goer or a newbie, the classic corn dog is a must-try that never disappoints. It's the quintessential fair food, and it sets the stage for all the other culinary adventures you'll embark on during your visit. You can find these at almost every food stall at the fair, so you won’t have a hard time spotting this classic. It's cheap and filling, making it a fair food staple for many years, and I think it will be for many more years to come. The simplicity of the corn dog is part of its charm. It's not fancy or pretentious; it's just a good, honest snack that brings joy to people of all ages. The smell of freshly cooked corn dogs wafting through the air is enough to make anyone's mouth water. It is the smell of nostalgia and happiness. It is the smell of the fair.

2. Giant Turkey Leg

Next up, we have another fair staple that's sure to satisfy your carnivorous cravings: the giant turkey leg. These behemoths of poultry are a sight to behold, and they taste even better than they look. Smoked to perfection, the turkey legs are tender, juicy, and packed with smoky flavor. The sheer size of these things is impressive, making them perfect for sharing (or not, we won't judge!). Holding a giant turkey leg is like wielding a medieval weapon, and taking that first bite is a truly satisfying experience. The smoky aroma and the savory taste will transport you to barbecue heaven. Be prepared to get messy, though! These things are dripping with delicious juices, so grab plenty of napkins. You'll find vendors selling giant turkey legs throughout the fairgrounds, and they're often cooked right in front of you, adding to the spectacle. Watching the vendors expertly maneuver these massive legs over the flames is a show in itself. The giant turkey leg is more than just a meal; it's an experience. It's a symbol of the fair, and it's a must-try for any self-respecting meat lover. While it may seem intimidating at first, trust us, it's worth the effort. You will not regret trying this giant, juicy piece of meat. It's a fair food icon for a reason, and it's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The taste is undeniably delicious, and the portion size is incredibly generous. It’s a perfect meal to share with friends or family, or you can take on the challenge and try to finish it yourself!

3. Deep-Fried Everything

Now, let's get to the heart of fair food innovation: deep-fried everything. The Oklahoma State Fair takes deep-frying to a whole new level, offering a mind-boggling array of foods that have been plunged into the fryer. From Oreos and Twinkies to pickles and butter, there's no limit to what can be deep-fried. These treats are crispy on the outside, gooey on the inside, and undeniably delicious (in a guilty-pleasure kind of way). The deep-fried Oreos are a particular favorite, with the warm, melty cream filling contrasting perfectly with the crispy, chocolatey exterior. And don't forget the deep-fried Twinkies, which transform the classic snack cake into a decadent, melt-in-your-mouth experience. But the deep-fried fun doesn't stop there. You can also try deep-fried pickles, which offer a tangy, salty, and surprisingly addictive flavor. And for the truly adventurous, there's deep-fried butter, which is exactly what it sounds like – a ball of butter that's been battered and deep-fried. It's rich, buttery, and incredibly indulgent. Deep-fried foods are the epitome of fair food excess, and they're a must-try for anyone looking to experience the full range of culinary craziness. Just remember to pace yourself! With so many options to choose from, it's easy to get carried away. But that’s half the fun, right? Exploring the boundaries of what can be deep-fried is a unique fair experience that you won’t find anywhere else.

4. Indian Taco

For a taste of local flavor, be sure to try the Indian taco. This Native American-inspired dish features frybread – a fluffy, slightly sweet flatbread – topped with all the classic taco fixings: seasoned ground beef, beans, cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, and your choice of salsa and sour cream. The frybread is the star of the show, providing a soft, chewy base that perfectly complements the savory toppings. The combination of textures and flavors is simply divine, making the Indian taco a satisfying and delicious meal. Many vendors use traditional recipes and techniques to make their frybread, ensuring an authentic and flavorful experience. You'll often find Indian tacos being sold at booths that support local Native American communities, making it a great way to support local culture while enjoying a fantastic meal. The Indian taco is a perfect example of how fair food can be both indulgent and culturally significant. It's a dish that celebrates the rich heritage of Oklahoma, and it's a must-try for anyone looking to experience the local culinary scene. It’s a hearty and flavorful meal that will keep you fueled up for exploring the rest of the fair. The soft, warm frybread combined with the savory taco toppings creates a perfect harmony of flavors that is hard to resist.

5. Funnel Cake

No fair food list is complete without mentioning the funnel cake. This quintessential fair treat is made by drizzling batter into hot oil in a circular pattern, creating a lacy, crispy cake that's then dusted with powdered sugar. The result is a sweet, airy, and utterly irresistible dessert. The aroma of freshly fried funnel cake is enough to make anyone's mouth water, and the taste is even better. The combination of the crispy exterior and the soft, fluffy interior is simply divine. You can customize your funnel cake with a variety of toppings, from fruit and chocolate sauce to whipped cream and sprinkles. But sometimes, the classic powdered sugar version is the best. There's something so satisfying about biting into a warm funnel cake and having the powdered sugar dust your nose. Funnel cake is a classic for a reason. It's the perfect balance of sweet and crispy, and it's a treat that everyone can enjoy. It's also incredibly photogenic, making it a popular Instagram food. So, be sure to snap a picture before you devour it! You'll find funnel cake vendors all over the fairgrounds, so you're never too far from this sweet treat. It's a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth, and it's a perfect way to end your fair food adventure. This dessert is a true fair classic, and it's a must-have for any visitor.

6. Barbecue

Oklahoma is known for its barbecue, and the State Fair is a great place to sample some of the best the state has to offer. From ribs and brisket to pulled pork and sausage, there's something for every barbecue lover. The smoky, tender meats are often slow-cooked to perfection, resulting in a flavor that's both rich and satisfying. Many vendors use time-honored techniques and family recipes to create their barbecue, ensuring an authentic and delicious experience. The aroma of barbecue smoke wafting through the air is enough to make any meat lover's heart sing. Be sure to try different sauces and rubs to find your favorite flavor profile. Some vendors offer sweet and tangy sauces, while others prefer a more spicy and smoky approach. You can also find barbecue sandwiches, which are perfect for a quick and easy meal on the go. But if you're really hungry, go for a full rack of ribs or a plate of brisket. You won't be disappointed. Oklahoma barbecue is a true culinary treasure, and the State Fair is a great place to discover why. It's a taste of Southern hospitality and culinary tradition, all rolled into one delicious package. Barbecue is a must-try for any visitor to the fair, and it’s a great way to experience the local flavors of Oklahoma.

7. Caramel Apples

For a sweet and crunchy treat, look no further than the caramel apple. These classic fair snacks feature crisp apples coated in a thick layer of caramel, often with additional toppings like nuts, chocolate, or sprinkles. The combination of the tart apple and the sweet caramel is simply irresistible, and the crunchy texture adds another layer of enjoyment. Caramel apples are a perfect treat for a warm day at the fair, and they're also a great option for sharing. You can find them at various candy and confectionery booths throughout the fairgrounds. Some vendors offer gourmet caramel apples with elaborate decorations and toppings, while others stick to the classic caramel and nut combination. No matter which version you choose, you're in for a delicious treat. Caramel apples are a classic fair food for a reason. They're sweet, crunchy, and satisfying, and they're a perfect way to indulge your sweet tooth. Plus, they're relatively portable, making them a great snack to enjoy while you explore the fair. Caramel apples are a must-try for any fair-goer, and they're a perfect way to add a touch of sweetness to your day. This classic treat is a must-have for anyone who loves the combination of sweet and crunchy flavors.

8. Cotton Candy

Speaking of sweets, no fair experience is complete without a cloud of cotton candy. This fluffy, sugary treat is a childhood favorite, and it's a perfect way to satisfy your sweet cravings. The vibrant colors and the airy texture of cotton candy are simply magical, and the taste is pure sugary bliss. Watching the vendors spin cotton candy is a show in itself. The way they transform a simple spoonful of sugar into a giant cloud of fluff is mesmerizing. Cotton candy is a perfect treat for kids of all ages (including adults!), and it's a great snack to share. You can find it in a variety of colors and flavors, from classic pink and blue to more exotic options like grape and watermelon. Cotton candy is the epitome of fair food nostalgia, and it's a must-try for anyone looking to relive their childhood memories. It's a simple treat, but it's incredibly satisfying, and it's a perfect way to add a touch of whimsy to your fair experience. The light and airy texture makes it a delightful treat to enjoy while strolling through the fairgrounds.

9. Lemonade

To quench your thirst on a hot fair day, nothing beats a refreshing cup of lemonade. Many vendors offer freshly squeezed lemonade, and it's the perfect way to cool down and recharge. The tart, sweet, and tangy flavor of lemonade is incredibly refreshing, and it's a welcome contrast to the rich and indulgent fair food. Look for vendors who make their lemonade from scratch, using fresh lemons and pure cane sugar. You can also find flavored lemonades, such as strawberry, raspberry, and peach. Some vendors even offer frozen lemonade, which is perfect for a particularly hot day. Lemonade is a classic fair beverage for a reason. It's thirst-quenching, delicious, and refreshing, and it's a perfect complement to all the other fair food you'll be trying. It’s a must-have for any fair visit, and it’s the perfect way to stay hydrated while enjoying all the sights and sounds of the fair. A large cup of ice-cold lemonade is the perfect way to cool down and enjoy the fair.

10. Anything on a Stick

Finally, let's not forget the general category of anything on a stick. The Oklahoma State Fair is a master of stick-based cuisine, offering a wide variety of foods that have been skewered and fried, grilled, or dipped in something delicious. From cheese curds and sausages to kabobs and corn on the cob, there's no limit to what you can find on a stick. Eating food on a stick is inherently fun, and it's also incredibly convenient. It's easy to carry around and eat while you're walking, making it a perfect fair food option. Be sure to explore the various stick-based offerings at the fair and try something new. You might just discover your new favorite fair food! Anything on a stick is a true testament to the fair's creative culinary spirit, and it's a must-try for anyone looking for a unique and fun food experience. The convenience and portability of food on a stick make it an ideal choice for enjoying while exploring the fair.

So, there you have it – our top 10 must-try foods at the Oklahoma State Fair. This list is just a starting point, though. With so many delicious options to choose from, you're sure to find plenty of other treats to enjoy. So, come hungry, bring your appetite for adventure, and get ready to indulge in all the culinary delights the fair has to offer! The Oklahoma State Fair is a food lover's paradise, and it's an experience you won't soon forget. Remember to pace yourself, try new things, and most importantly, have fun! The fair is a time for indulgence and enjoyment, so don't be afraid to treat yourself to some delicious food. You deserve it!