Kraut Contest Winners Are Happy Not Sauer at State Fair
August 17, 2011
The versatility of an eastern European staple was highlighted in the Iowa’s Best Sauerkraut contest, judged Sunday at the 2011 Iowa State Fair.
Diana Benzing of Neola won first place in the Best Homemade Sauerkraut division. Gerald Volk of Cascade earned second place, and Ila Taylor of Bouton claimed third place.
In the Best Sauerkraut Recipe division Joyce Krause of Johnston won first place. Erin Kramer of Nevada took second place, and Lonnie Hartstack of Clarinda earned third place.
Judy Perkins of Fort Dodge claimed the top prize in the Most Creative Sauerkraut Recipe division. Erin Kramer of Nevada won second place and Diane Rauh of Des Moines claimed third place.
Sauerkraut is shredded cabbage that is fermented.
Entries were judged on flavor, consistency and texture and appearance.
The Iowa State Fair Food Department is the largest of any state fair in the country. Food Department judging is held in the recently-renovated Elwell Family Food Center sponsored by Blue Bunny.
“Nothing Compares” to the 2011 Iowa State Fair, celebrating 100 years of the Butter Cow August 11-21. The Fairgrounds are located at East 30th and East University Avenue, just 10 minutes east of downtown Des Moines, and are open 7 a.m. to 1 a.m. each day of the Fair. Exhibit hours may vary. For more information, call 800/545-FAIR or visit iowastatefair.org.
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