A quintessential Minnesota comfort food, hotdish is a casserole made with a combination of meat, vegetables, and starch such as tater tots or pasta. It's a staple at family gatherings and potlucks. 1)
This traditional Norwegian flatbread is popular in Minnesota, especially during the holiday season. It's often spread with butter and sugar or used to wrap around savory fillings. 2)
As Minnesota is the “Land of 10,000 Lakes,” walleye, a freshwater fish, is a popular catch. It's often prepared by pan-frying or deep-frying and is a favorite in many local restaurants. 3)
Originating in Minneapolis, the Juicy Lucy is a hamburger with a twist. Instead of placing toppings on the burger, cheese is stuffed inside the patty, creating a molten, cheesy center when cooked. 4)
Native to Minnesota's lakes and rivers, wild rice is a staple in the state's cuisine. It's often used in soups, salads, and casseroles. 5)
Held in various towns in Minnesota, this festival celebrates the beloved hotdish. Attendees can enjoy different variations of this classic casserole. 6)
A Scandinavian dish, lutefisk is dried fish (usually cod or lingon) rehydrated in a lye solution. While an acquired taste, it's often served with butter or cream sauce in Minnesota, particularly during the holiday season. 7)
Matt's Bar and the 5-8 Club in Minneapolis claim to be the creators of the Juicy Lucy. They each have their own version of this iconic stuffed burger, and there's friendly competition between the two establishments. 8)
The Minnesota State Fair is famous for its unique and sometimes unusual fair foods, including deep-fried candy bars, cheese curds, and pronto pups (corn dogs). 9)
Given its abundant natural resources, Minnesota has a strong tradition of hunting, and wild game such as venison, elk, and duck is often featured in local cuisine. 10)
Minnesota's cuisine reflects its rich cultural heritage, outdoor traditions, and abundance of natural resources, making it a delightful destination for food enthusiasts. 11)
The state produces a variety of delicious apples, and apple orchards are popular destinations for picking and enjoying fresh apples and apple-related products. 12)
The state has a thriving craft beer scene, with numerous breweries offering a wide range of unique and flavorful beers. Surly Brewing Company and Summit Brewing Company are among the well-known names. 13)
Inspired by Scandinavian traditions, lingonberry jam is a popular accompaniment to many dishes in Minnesota, adding a sweet and tart flavor to meats, pancakes, and desserts. 14)
Often found at fairs and local markets, cheese curds are bite-sized nuggets of fresh cheese, typically cheddar, that are breaded and deep-fried. They are a popular snack. 15)