The Shake Up

The Kentucky State Fair has always been synonymous with blue ribbons and award-winning entertainment. But topping its repertoire of things that draws more than 600,000 patrons each year is the unique cuisine specific to the Fair. Though the tradition of funnel cakes, BBW sandwiches and lemon shake-ups will continue, a new assortment of innovative and eclectic food items will be available this year.

Last year’s Krispy Kreme burger at the Kentucky State Fair caught everyone’s attention and is back by popular demand at the front of Freedom Hall. Its success has this year’s vendors and food connoisseurs looking for the “next big thing” in fair fare.

The deep-fried derby pie, a uniquely Kentucky confection, will make its debut this year. The traditional famous bourbon pie will be dipped in funnel cake batter and fried to perfection in the Sivori tent, located in the South Wing C Parking Lot. But, it is not the only addition to the Fair’s fried food group.

Fried Kool-Aid has been a topic of interest since creator “chicken” Charlie Boghosian introduced it to fairgoers at this year’s Sand Diego Fair, proving once again there is nothing you can’t deep-fry. Made on location, this unusual sensation is a combination of funnel cake batter and cherry Kool-Aid powder that dissolves as it is heated.

Curious Kentucky State Fairgoers can find deep-fired Kool-Aid at booths in both South Wing C and the South Wing parking lot. Eminence Elementary School principal and food entrepreneur Mike Doran said he expects a big return on his investment in additional equipment and staff he acquired to supply the treat.

“I think this is going to stick around,” Doran said. “I hope it becomes a staple like fried Twinkies and fried snickers.”

The odd concoction will share the spotlight with a few other unlikely desserts, including the Maple Bacon Sundae. The sundae is a bizarre combination of butter pecan ice-cream, maple syrup, and bacon that fans claim is worth a try. Anthony Allega, owner of Big Kahuna, said that the sundae has already been a big hit at several fairs this year. Allega will also offer frozen chocolate-dipped bananas, strawberries and cheesecake. 

Patrons simply looking for a balanced meal will also have a place to indulge. Vendors in South Wing C will be offering traditional breakfast foods, hot deli favorites and inner classics such as spaghetti and salad.

For a more formal experience, the Saddlebred Café offers find dining and gourmet desserts as well as a full-service bar serving soft drinks, coffee, wine, beer and cocktails.

The 107th Kentucky State Fair will be held August 18-28 at the Kentucky Exposition Center. For more information and continued updates on the 2011 Kentucky State Fair, visit the official website at www.kystatefair.org.