texas

Fletcher's Adds New Corny Dog to State Fair Menu

For the first time in 73 years of business, Skip Fletcher, of Fletcher's Corn Dogs, will offering something different at the State Fair of Texas: a vegetarian-friendly corny dog.

"I've never tried one! I hope they're good," said Fletcher, 83, at his North Texas home.

Fletcher said for years now customers have asked for a vegetarian version of the company's already famous corny dog.

This year, they obliged.

"We finally threw in the towel and this year we're going to do a veggie dog," he said.

"My dad's going to turn over in his grave," Fletcher joked. "He said, 'Don't ever change the menu, ever.' We can add. I'm not changing. I'm adding."

Finalists for 2015 State Fair Food Awards

The corny dog will not be vegan since the batter contains milk and eggs.

Fletcher said his family isn't sure exactly what they'll use inside the new corny dog, but they'll start testing products and items in their kitchen immediately and will be ready by the time the fair opens next month.

Fair officials confirmed to NBC that the veggie corny dog will only be available at the Fletcher's concession stand across from Big Tex.

The new meatless dog will cost the same as the original corny dog, which is 10 coupons or $5.

"I really believe there's so many people out there who don't eat meat and they'll try this. They'll try it and probably like it! So we've got a whole set of new customers out there we'll be bringing into the fold."

During the fair's 24-day run, Fletcher said his family and employees sell about 600,000 corny dogs. This year they hope to top that number.

The State Fair of Texas opens Friday, Sept. 25.

NBC 5's Holley Ford contributed to this report.

Contact Us