These foods that can only be found in Steele County will tickle your taste buds any time of year, but there is a summer slant to this. This won't cover all the major food groups, so you might need to find a salad somewhere.

With near 90-degree temperatures here, it's time to get cued up at The Blast Soft Serve on Rose Street. I find it surprising how indecisive I become when confronted with the huge menu of flavors and combinations. The lines can be long, but it's worth the wait. The ice-cold water cooler is also a perfect pit stop for those using the trail that runs right by.

Any event that serves Steele County Pork Producer pork patties is an event worth visiting. The thought of a pork burger (and a beer) at Corky's Early Bird Softball Tournament kept me going during the recent From the Heart Run. I imagine the pork patties will be available during Crazy Days, for instance.

If you're not familiar with Hope Butter, you must be new to the area. The local creamery has been churning out the high quality butter for decades. When KRFO radio runs the annual holiday-time Hope Butter on-air giveaway, the phone lights up...wait for it...like a Christmas tree.

A box of candy from Costa's Candies and Restaurant in downtown Owatonna is a great stocking stuffer. It also works for Valentine's Day, anniversaries, Mother's Day, Father's Day and any other gift-giving occasion. I just picked up a box for my son's birthday. Plus it's a great restaurant.

The food options during the Steele County Fair are practically limitless. I like to try something new each year, but also go back to my favorites, including the pork chop sandwich, the wrap created by Torey's and Cindy's Nachos.

And check out these 8 unique Minnesota foods.

 

 

 

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