Indulging in Maryland's State Fair: A Delectable Adventure

With the bustling Maryland State Fair as the backdrop, Maggie Ramirez-McGraw, the co-owner of Get Baked Food Trolley, skillfully kneads and shapes her signature soft pretzels. Infusing them with the rich flavors of blue crab and Nutella, she offers fairgoers a unique gastronomic experience. Beyond Ramirez-McGraw's tempting treats, the fair's culinary lineup features a diverse array of tantalizing options, from smoked pork belly fried rice to a refreshing strawberry chocolate sweet tea. Join us as we uncover the hidden gems and must-try delights that make the 2024 Maryland State Fair a true foodie's paradise.

Savor the Flavors of Maryland's Finest at the State Fair

Soft Pretzels: A Twist on Tradition

Maggie Ramirez-McGraw's passion for pretzel-making began during her teenage years in Ocean City, where she honed her skills at a stuffed pretzel shop. Now, she's bringing that expertise to the Maryland State Fair with her mobile food truck, Get Baked. Ramirez-McGraw's pretzels offer a delightful blend of both savory and sweet flavors. The blue crab and cheese-filled pretzel showcases the rich, briny sweetness of Maryland's renowned crab, complemented by the creamy texture of melted American cheese. For those with a sweeter tooth, the Nutella-stuffed pretzel provides a satisfying balance of salty and indulgent. Both varieties have been selected as finalists in the fair's new "The Mallet" food competition, where a panel of judges will crown the winners on Sunday at 10 a.m.

Smoked Pork Belly Fried Rice: A Smoky Sensation

Another newcomer to the Maryland State Fair's culinary lineup is the smoked pork belly fried rice, available at the pork stand in the Maryland Foods Pavilion. This dish is not for the faint of heart, as the intense smokiness permeates every bite, from the rice to the tender, fatty pork belly. For those with a high tolerance for bold flavors, the combination of the smoky pork, chili crisp, and scallions creates a truly unique and memorable experience. While the smokiness may be overpowering for some, the pork belly itself is a standout, showcasing its delectable texture and flavor.

Strawberry Chocolate Sweet Tea: A Refreshing Twist

Seeking a refreshing respite from the savory delights? Look no further than the Tiki Tea stalls scattered throughout the fair, where a special treat awaits. The strawberry chocolate sweet tea offers a delightful twist on the classic Maryland staple. While the tea itself is somewhat subdued, the real star of the show is the Hershey's chocolate syrup and the three chocolate-dipped strawberries that adorn the souvenir mug. The result is a nostalgic and visually striking beverage that perfectly captures the indulgent spirit of the fair.

Catfish and Chips: A Seafood Delight

Amid the abundance of beef, turkey, and pork options, fairgoers seeking a seafood experience will be delighted by Jimmy's Famous Seafood's take on fish and chips. Swapping out the traditional cod or haddock for Maryland catfish, this dish offers a unique take on the classic. The breaded catfish is surprisingly light and tender, while the thick-cut fries provide a satisfying side. An Old Bay-inspired seasoning and a spicy Jimmy's sauce add an extra layer of flavor, making this a standout seafood offering at the fair.

Strawberry Banana Pudding Crunch Mini Donuts: A Sweet Indulgence

For those with a sweet tooth, Deddle Donuts, a familiar face from Lexington Market, has brought their miniature donuts to the Maryland State Fair. This year, they've created a Charm City-inspired flavor: strawberry banana pudding crunch. These donuts are a true sugar bomb, topped with fresh banana slices, pudding, strawberry glaze, whipped cream, powdered sugar, and a strawberry crumble "crunch." It's a delightful fusion of flavors that perfectly captures the essence of summer and the indulgent spirit of the fair.

Fresh Peach Sundae: A Taste of Late Summer

No visit to the Maryland State Fair would be complete without indulging in one of the fair's beloved desserts. The fresh peach sundae, available at the Maryland Foods Pavilion, combines the delicate sweetness of ripe peaches with creamy vanilla soft serve and a dollop of whipped cream. It's a simple, yet delightful treat that perfectly encapsulates the fleeting joys of late summer, offering fairgoers a refreshing and seasonally appropriate indulgence.