Purple sticky rice, a popular new dish by Union Hmong Kitchen and Chef Yia Vang, pictured at the Minnesota State Fairgrounds in Falcon Heights, Minnesota, Sunday, Sept. 1, 2024.

Is Iowa the ultimate State Fair field of dreams or does its neighbor to the north hold (purple) reign? Three retired journalists tried to find out.

Grilled Purple Sticky Rice Where to get: Union Hmong Kitchen (at the International Bazaar, south wall, west corner) What they promised: "Purple sticky rice grilled over an open flame until crunchy ...

ST. PAUL, Minn. — The 2024 Minnesota State Fair is here, and with it, all the fried food, sugary sweets and delectable drinks for which your heart and taste buds yearn.