Ep 1. Some Like It Popped

Some Like It Popped is the first episode of the fourth season of Carnival Eats, a show that takes viewers on a gastronomical adventure across North America, exploring the unique and often outrageous food creations found at fairs and carnivals. In this episode, host Noah Cappe travels to the Indiana State Fair, where he discovers all sorts of inventive and delicious ways to prepare corn.

As the episode opens, viewers are treated to a montage of corn being harvested and processed - from cornfields to corn mazes to corn dogs. It's clear that corn is a big deal at the Indiana State Fair, and Noah is excited to explore all the ways it's used in the food served there.

Noah's first stop is at the Corn Concoctions booth, where he samples some unique sweet and savory corn-based snacks. He tries the Elote Dog, a hot dog topped with corn, mayo, and spices; the Corn Bratkake, a corn-filled variation on the classic German dish; and the Sweet Corn Lasagna, a creamy pasta dish made with fresh Indiana corn.

Next up, Noah visits the Ag-Venture Trail, a section of the fair dedicated to educating visitors about agriculture in Indiana. Here, he learns about the different types of corn grown in the state and the various ways it's used in products like ethanol and animal feed.

After his lesson, Noah heads over to the Indiana Pork Producers booth to try their take on a classic carnival dish: the corn dog. The Pork & Corn Brat Dog is a cornmeal-battered bratwurst skewered with a stick of corn, then deep-fried to crispy perfection. Noah notes that the combination of the corn and pork is a winning one, and declares the Pork & Corn Brat Dog a must-try for anyone visiting the fair.

Noah's next stop is at the Corn Roast booth, where he watches as cobs of sweet corn are roasted over an open flame. He then samples the Garlic Butter Corn, a simple but delicious dish made with butter, garlic, and salt. Noah notes that the sweetness of the corn pairs perfectly with the tangy garlic butter.

At the Mr. Brat booth, Noah tries a unique twist on a classic fair food: the Corn Tamale Brat. This dish features a bratwurst topped with a soft corn tamale, then garnished with a spicy salsa and sour cream. Noah notes that the tamale adds a unique texture and flavor to the traditional bratwurst, and gives the dish high marks for creativity and taste.

Noah's final stop of the day is at the Root Beer Floats booth, where he samples a refreshing twist on a classic dessert: the Corn Ice Cream Float. This inventive treat features vanilla ice cream topped with corn-infused syrup and root beer. Noah notes that the corn flavor is subtle but adds a unique sweetness to the float.

Throughout the episode, Noah also interviews various vendors and visitors at the Indiana State Fair, getting their take on the importance of corn in Indiana agriculture and the creativity of the carnival food scene. He also takes in the sights and sounds of the fair, from the midway rides to the livestock exhibits.

Some Like It Popped is a fun and informative start to the fourth season of Carnival Eats, showcasing the unique and delicious ways that corn is used in carnival cuisine. With Noah as a lively and engaging host, viewers will be sure to enjoy this mouth-watering journey through the Indiana State Fair.