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Four can’t-miss foods at the State Fair of Texas 2022

The State Fair of Texas returns Fri., Sept. 30-Sat., Oct, 23, and here’s a look at four must-try fair foods from the finalists in the 2022 Big Tex Choice Awards.

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A wide shot of the ferris wheel at the State Fair of Texas

The State Fair of Texas is the longest-running fair in the nation. | Photo by FTWtoday

It’s almost the “fairy” best time of year. The State Fair of Texas is just four days away, which means we’ll be celebrating all things Texas for almost a month — from Fri., Sept. 30-Sat., Oct., 23. 🎡

Each year, we look forward to the tasty + unique foods created by State Fair concessionaires competing for a chance to become a finalist in the annual Big Tex Choice Awards foodie competition.The finalists and winners have now been announcedand we want to try them all.

Here are four can’t miss dishes from this year’s winners and finalists:

Fried Charcuterie

Fried Charcuterie Board created by Tami Nevins-Mayes + Josey Mayes

Photo by State Fair of Texas

1. Fried Charcuterie Board 🍯 (Winner: “Best Taste - Savory”)

Sweet dreams are made of cheese. A new take on everyone’s favorite appetizer, this dish features fresh mozzarella, salami, and green apples wrapped in a wonton wrapper, fried, then topped with goat cheese + a drizzle of hot honey. Pro tip: Try pairing with Karbach Brewing Company’s Light Circus Hazy IPA.

2. Chicharron Explosion Nachos 🧀 (Finalist: “Savory”)

These are “nacho” typical nacho dish. Instead of chips, cajun-seasoned pork rinds are used as the base. The dish is completed with smoked beef fajita meat and covered with queso. Pro tip: Try pairing with Karbach Brewing Company’s Hopadillo IPA.

Brookie Monster

The Ultimate Brookie Monster created by Juan + Brent Reaves

Photo by State Fair of Texas

3. The Ultimate Brookie Monster 🍪 (Finalist: “Sweet”)

Now for something sweet. This dessert dish starts with a base of chocolate chip cookies, layered with Oreos + marshmallows, then covered in brownie batter, and baked. It’s then deep fried, showered in powdered sugar, and served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a finishing touch, it is topped with cheesecake crumbles and strawberry sauce. Pro tip: Try pairing with Karbach Brewing Company’s Rodeo Clown Double IPA.

4. Cha-Cha Chata 🍨 (Winner: “Most Creative”)

A dessert dish you can enjoy while on-the-go. This cha-cha dance inspired milkshake is a blend of milk, vanilla ice cream, and a top-secret horchata recipe. The creamy concoction is then poured into a cup rimmed with caramel + cinnamon, topped with whipped cream, and dusted with candy, cinnamon, and more.

Check out nine more award-worthy dishes.

Poll: Which dish are you most excited to try? Let us know.*

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