You don’t have to battle the throngs of fairgoers to indulge in french fries and turkey legs.
It’s no secret that I’m obsessed with the State Fair. I mean, 12 days of munching on the ultimate comfort foods—foot longs, turkey legs, french fries, pie—what’s not to love? Here are 10 crowd-pleasing, State Fair-inspired recipes to make at home any time of the year.
The World’s Best French Fries
The formula for perfect, crispy french fries with a soft, fluffy interior is easy—fry them once at a low temperature, and a second time at a higher temp until golden brown. Get the recipe >>>
Pulled Pork with Homemade BBQ Sauce
It’s summer, so get outside and light up that grill. Relax and be patient, the best-barbecued pork takes time. Get the recipe >>>
Smoked Turkey Legs
Smoked turkey legs shouldn’t just be reserved for walking around the Renaissance festival or Disneyland. As long as you have a little patience, they’re easy to make, delicious and pretty economical next to that brisket you were looking at. The Dr. Pepper brine is magic. Get the Recipe >>>
The Ultimate Hot Dog
Sure, this hot dog may take a little longer to put together than your average tube steak with yellow mustard, but I guarantee it’s worth the extra effort. Get the recipe >>>
Classic Buttermilk Fried Chicken
Soaking the chicken in buttermilk overnight ensures the meat will stay tender, flavorful and moist. I love to serve this classic fried chicken recipe with crispy twice-fried shallots and homemade bread and butter pickles. Get the recipe >>>
Crispy Bacon Sandwich with Jalapeno Jelly & Vinegar Slaw
Everyone loves bacon, so I’ve devised a way to make it the star of the meal. I mean, what could be better than a thick slice of crispy belly bacon in a buttered bun? Get the recipe >>>
Fish & Chips
This simple comfort food classic always hits the spot. Serve with my homemade tartar sauce, plenty of lemon wedges and malt vinegar. Get the recipe >>>
Cucumber Mint Lemonade
Everyone will love this refreshing cucumber-and-mint-infused lemonade at your next backyard party. Get the recipe >>>
Fried Apple Hand Pies
These hand pies are addictive… a flaky pastry crust coated in cinnamon and sugar with a luscious apple filling, what’s not to love? Plus, it’s a hand pie, so you won’t have to share. Get the recipe >>>
Chocolate Chip Cookies
I’ve spent a long time perfecting this chocolate chip recipe. To me, they’re perfect. Crispy on the outside, chewy on the inside and light as a feather. Get the recipe >>>