We’ve eaten popsicles and even the occasional corn dog, all foods on sticks we have grown to know and love. But what happens when carnival and street vendors attempt creativity in an effort to keep up with the demanding desire for things that are new and interesting? You end up with a wide variety of deep fried foods, some complete atrocities, all sold on sticks. Some are delicacies and others are not. We’ll leave it up to you to decide which you’d like to try.

10. Deep Fried Spam

The problem here is that we’re not 100% sure why people like spam to begin with. It’s a highly preserved, salty, tangy ham-based snack stuffed into a tiny tin can. A group of BBQ fans took it upon themselves to smother their sliced spam in Japanese breadcrumbs, fry it, and skewer it with a stick.

9. Pizza Popsicles

At the Canadian National Exhibition in Ontario you’ll find an odd creation – the Pizza Popsicle by Mamma’s Pizza. Sure, it’s a cute idea and yes, people buy it. The problem? It’s simply an overpriced slice of pizza with a stick shoved through it. We’ll pass and take a few regular slices, please.

8. Deep Fried Mashed Potatoes

Image credit: amy_b

We actually like this idea. The deep-fried bacon cheddar mashed potato is a smash hit at the annual Tulsa State Fair. Diners will receive four delectable deep-fried mashed potato balls stuffed with cheddar cheese and bacon bits on a single stick served with a side of tangy ranch dressing. Delicious!

7. Deep Fried French Fries

In Southeastern Asia you’ll find an odd twist on traditional French fries. Created by the popular food blogger, Phil Lees, this odd dish features a hotdog covered in French fries with a slice of bacon on top. Why? We don’t know.

6. Octopus Tempura

Image credit: mdid

We’re really not a fan of the octopus tempura idea but if you like dining on tentacles you may be surprised at how tasty these treat is. The tentacles are mixed into dough which is then dropped into a deep fryer. From the outside, this creation looks innocent – almost like bread. Don’t be surprised at what jumps out after you take the first bite.

5. Chocolate Cake

During the 2008 State Fair of Texas, one family tried to find something unique to serve guests. The creation, designed by Donna from DonanCooks.WordPress.com, was a slice of chocolate cake covered in batter and deep fried. This one, we hear, was actually pretty good.

4. Tootsie Rolls

The folks at the Orange County fair in California have decided to attempt frying anything they can get their hands on including, oddly enough, tootsie rolls. We personally don’t think Tootsie rolls taste like much to begin with and can’t imagine a deep fried batter enhancing the vaguely chocolate flavor. Perhaps one of you will try one that proves us wrong.

3. Livermush

Why, pray tell, would anyone fry livermush and serve it on a stick? If it makes you feel better, this dish is only found at the Livermush Festival held annually in Shelby, North Carolina. Livermush was once a popular southern dish but is slowly disappearing from menus as individuals realize that pig liver, head parts, and cornmeal aren’t necessarily the best combination of foods.

2. Deep Fried Macaroni and Cheese

We’re huge fans of macaroni and cheese around here so hearing that the Minnesota State Fair had added deep fried macaroni and cheese on a stick to its menu was a welcome surprise. The macaroni and cheese balls, served on a stick, sort of resemble oversized tater tots – gooey and delicious.

1. Cheese

Image credit: irrezolut

We all love cheese, right? Condy’s Concession is a traveling concession stand that stops at fairs all around the country. We hope she stops by a local fair in your area because you absolutely need to try deep fried cheese on a stick. Served with or without marinara sauce, we’re sure you’ll find it better than your standard restaurant cheese stick appetizer.

Hungry yet? We are. And we’re about to start eating our way down this list (with a few exceptions). Keep your eyes peeled for a chance to sample some of these tasty treats but remember – eat in moderation. None of these foods will find their way onto your nutritionist’s recommended menu!