The South Florida Fair is back and that means time to chow down on all manner of fried and sugary treats.
The fair, which takes over the South Florida Fairgrounds from Jan 17 - Feb 2, 2014 features rides, concerts, pig races, high divers, and animal exhibits. But we're in it for the glorious, greasy, fried food.
Because we're considered food professionals, we're sharing five tips for you to enjoy the fair food.
5. Everything tastes better fried
It's a well-known fact. If it tastes good, it will taste better fried. The lowly potato turns into a mound of golden fries and lumps of chicken-ish meat become delicious nuggets. So it stands to reason that anything tastes better rolled in flour and given a few minutes in bubbling oil. Like fried pickles, fried dough, fried butter, fried Oreos, fried jalapenos, and fried buckeyes. All better fried. All at the fair.
4. If you can't fry it, grill it.
Just try to pass the food stands piled high with various animal parts at the fair. The smell alone makes one want to tear hot flesh off a bone. And there are so many different choices. From steak to sausage to giant turkey legs, it's time to channel your inner caveman and go for it.
3. Second childhood is oh so sweet
Being a grownup isn't all that it's cracked up to be. There are bills, mortgages, and deadlines. Don't you wish sometimes you could go back to the carefree days of childhood? You can at the fair. Simply buy some cotton candy and take a whiff. That sugary sweet smell itself is enough to transport you straight back.
2. Try new things
From Krispy Kreme doughnut burgers to pork parfaits to (gasp) chocolate covered scorpions, the fair is the time to try food you're not going to find at the local Burger King. Go ahead, bring a few friends and try everything that looks good. Remember, it's only once a year.
1. Go on the rides....before you start your pig out
We can't stress this enough. We love the rides as much as anyone -- especially the ones that spin us around at a frenetic pace. But we get all the hurling through space done before we start on the candy apples and pork chops. Remember that little rule and your day at the fair will be amazing. Forget it at your own peril.
The South Florida Fair opens today and runs through Sunday, February 2. Gates open at noon Monday through Friday, and at 10 a.m. on Saturday and Sunday. Admission is $15 for adults, $9 for seniors, $8 for children ages 6 to 11, and free for children 5 and under.
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