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February 18.2026
3 Minutes Read

Dive into Wisconsin's Culinary Scene with Kat Turner and James Lohmiller

Culinary experts promoting Wisconsin food tours event live.

Exploring Livestream Delights: A Flavorful Chat with Kat Turner and James Lohmiller

In the bustling culinary landscape of Wisconsin, where cheese curds meet craft beers and the legendary Friday fish fry is a staple, a recent livestream featuring special guests Kat Turner and James Lohmiller caught my attention. This delightful duo, known for their expertise in the Wisconsin food scene, brought a unique flavor to the table—quite literally! Through their engaging dialogue, they explored some of the best food traditions that the state has to offer, proving that Wisconsin is more than just a place; it's a culinary destination.

In 2/12 - Livestream - Special Guest: Kat Turner / James Lohmiller, the discussion dives into Wisconsin's culinary scene, exploring key insights that sparked deeper analysis on our end.

Wisconsin's Culinary Treasures That You Must Try

Let's face it, when you think of Wisconsin, right after “cheese” and “beer,” you might think, “Where can I find the best bratwurst?” Well, if you're looking for some scrumptious bratwurst recipes, you've landed in the right state. The Sheboygan brat, in particular, tends to take the cake—or should I say, the bun? Paired with a beer from any of our lovely Wisconsin craft breweries, it makes for a match made in foodie heaven!

And while you’re at it, don't forget to round out the meal with a delicious butter burger. Just saying the words can make your mouth water! Who can resist that melting butter atop a juicy burger? It’s practically a rite of passage in Wisconsin.

The Sweet Side of Wisconsin: Frozen Custard and Kringle

As we pivot from savory to sweet, let’s not overlook the heavenly frozen custard Wisconsin is famous for. A world apart from ice cream, frozen custard is thick, creamy, and the perfect way to cool off on those balmy summer days. And speaking of sweet treats, Wisconsin’s kringle pastry brings not just sweet, but a little bit of flaky joy into every bite! Whether you enjoy it plain or with fruits like Door County cherries, one thing’s for sure: you can’t have just one slice.

Get Ready for Fish Fry Friday

Now let’s talk about Friday fish fry. Each winter, the whole state gathers around to savor this timeless meal, which is nothing short of a religious experience for many locals. People flock to supper clubs and local restaurants, some even claiming their grandma's fish fry is the best (with no evidence to back it up, of course). Ah, family traditions—stronger than any recipe! If you haven’t experienced a Wisconsin fish fry, you're in for a treat—crispy, golden-brown batter enveloping the freshest fish available. Just make sure to skip the treadmill the next day!

Marketplace Marvels: The Dane County Farmers’ Market

Ever been to the Dane County Farmers’ Market? It’s like a food lover’s wonderland. This vibrant market invites you to explore an array of locally-produced delights, from artisanal cheeses to fresh produce that would put your grocery store to shame. Grab some fresh Wisconsin cranberry recipes while you’re there. It’s all about making connections with local farmers, creators, and maybe snagging a bouquet that could rival your high school prom date!

Celebrate Wisconsin’s Food Culture

The beauty of Wisconsin's food culture is its roots in community and family. From farm-to-table practices to gathering over a good fish fry or cheese curds, it's about bringing friends and family together over food. As humorist Erma Bombeck once said, "The grass is always greener over the septic tank," just like your fried fish always tastes better when shared at a crowded supper club!

Your Next Steps to Culinary Delights

If you haven’t already, toss on your favorite cheese hat, plan a culinary tour (you can even go on a TravelWisconsin tour), and dive deep into Wisconsin's culinary treasures. Whether you're here on vacation or a lifetime resident, exploring the deliciousness of the Dairy State is a fun and mouthwatering journey!

So what are you waiting for? Call your foodie friends, bring out the kringle, and let’s toast with a Sprecher root beer. Wisconsin’s delicious culinary journey awaits!

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04.03.2026

Taste the Best: Wisconsin's Culinary Treasures Await Food Lovers

Update Exploring Wisconsin's Culinary Scene: A Delicious Journey Welcome to the land where cheese flows like the Wisconsin River and bratwurst sizzles on every corner! If you've ever wondered how to indulge your taste buds while enjoying the great outdoors, let’s dive into Wisconsin's rich culinary landscape, inspired by insights from the LIVE Q&A: Behind the Mint Mark episode on Wisconsin Foodie.In LIVE Q&A: Behind the Mint Mark Episode on Wisconsin Foodie, the discussion dives into the state’s vibrant culinary offerings, exploring key insights that sparked deeper analysis on our end. From Cheese Curds to Creamy Kringles: The Heart of Wisconsin Flavors Wisconsin is perhaps best known for its cheese curds — those squeaky little morsels that bring joy to every cheese lover's heart. Did you know that Wisconsin is home to over 600 cheese factories? That’s more cheese than there are cows—okay, maybe just slightly fewer cows! Whether you’re feasting at the Dane County Farmers' Market or enjoying a late-night snack, you’ll find these golden nuggets are practically the state mascot. Bratwurst and Butter Burgers: A Match Made in Culinary Heaven If cheese curds are a fan favorite, bratwurst surely takes the gold in grill competitions statewide. Try whipping up a mouth-watering bratwurst recipe at your next backyard barbecue and watch the compliments roll in like summer thunderstorms. But wait—don’t forget to complement your brat with a classic Wisconsin butter burger recipe, which has more buttery goodness packed into it than the state has snow in January! That's a whole lot! Beer: The Nectar of the Great Lakes No Wisconsin culinary tour would be complete without a nod to our local brews. Wisconsin beer brands, from the beloved New Glarus Spotted Cow to the innovative new craft breweries sprouting like spring flowers, have something for every palate. So grab a cold one at one of the many Lakefront Brewery tours and raise a toast to all the flavor-packed adventures that await. Friday Fish Fry & Frozen Custard: True Wisconsin Treats Ah, the infamous Friday fish fry! Every local will tell you that it’s a rite of passage to enjoy fried fish with a side of coleslaw in any Wisconsin supper club. Did I mention that slathering it in tartar sauce is optional but highly recommended? And for dessert, nothing says Wisconsin quite like a scoop (or three) of frosty frozen custard! You can never really be *too* cold when it comes to custard, right? Discovering Culinary Gems: Beyond the Basics Want to dig deeper into Wisconsin's culinary treasure trove? Take a trip to the farmer’s markets where local produce shines — including Door County cherries for your pies and Wisconsin cranberry recipes that are sure to impress your dinner guests. TravelWisconsin offers plenty of tours focusing on everything from cheese to wine trails, ensuring every foodie’s dreams are fulfilled. Getting to Know the State’s Food Festivals Mark your calendars! With upcoming Wisconsin food festivals, you’ll want to sample everything from Wisconsin ginseng tea to authentic fish boil dishes. Don’t forget that these events are not just delicious; they’re also a fantastic way to connect with friendly locals who can share their best-kept secrets. Local vs. Global: The Culinary Influence It’s intriguing how local traditions and global influences blend on our plates. Just take a look at the surge in food trucks serving international cuisines. They pop up everywhere in Wisconsin, making a delightful twist to the typical cheese and bratwurst combo! To Conclude: Get Out and Explore! So, whether you’re a native cheese head or just passing through, sample a butter burger, and brace yourself for Wisconsin's culinary delights! There are countless opportunities to experiment, explore, and eat your way through the state. Discovering Wisconsin's rich food culture is not just a journey for your stomach; it’s a celebration of community and creativity. Now go grab those cheese curds and don’t forget to share your favorites with friends—sharing is caring, especially when it comes to food!

04.01.2026

Discover Delicious Sausage and Sauerkraut: A Wisconsin Favorite

Update Why Wisconsin Can't Get Enough of Sausage and Sauerkraut When it comes to satisfying comfort food, few dishes carry the heritage and heartiness of sausage and sauerkraut. This delightful combo, a staple in meals across Wisconsin, boasts a remarkable balance of sweetness from apples and tanginess from sauerkraut, harmonizing perfectly with the savory punch of seared sausage and crispy bacon. It's an inexpensive family dinner option that packs the flavor of a five-star meal, ideal for after a long winter's day—or really any day, because let’s be honest, we could all use a little sauerkraut in our lives! And the best part? You can even turn this into a complete ensemble by adding dumplings for a twist on the classic. What a way to expand your culinary repertoire! Making the Perfect Sausage and Sauerkraut First off, the stars of the show: the sausage and bacon. Go for kielbasa sausage; it's your best friend in this dish! Bacon, while delicious, has its tricks up its sleeve. Make sure to choose regular cut instead of thick cut to keep the grease to a manageable amount. And for our fruity twist, it’s hard to beat Granny Smith apples—cooking with these beauties not only adds sweetness but an extra crunch that transforms the dish! Now let's get started. Fry your bacon until it's crispy, then save that glorious grease because it’s liquid gold! Next, sauté your onion and sausage in that oh-so-flavorful fat until they are both tender and their beauty is golden-brown. In a larger pot, combine everything else: sauerkraut, brown sugar, chopped apples, and a dash of apple juice—trust me, this makes a world of difference. Allow all that to simmer away for about 20 minutes. Just long enough to wonder if you should have made an extra batch! Storing Leftovers: Chef's Best Kept Secret Let's talk about leftovers, or as I like to call them, tomorrow's lunch! Sausage and sauerkraut can hang out in the refrigerator for up to a week (if you can resist diving back in). As the dish sits, the flavors meld together like they’re best friends at summer camp. Just heat it up gently and watch as the aroma fills your kitchen, edging out any thoughts of salad for at least one more meal! The Sauerkraut Tradition in Wisconsin Sauerkraut’s roots in Wisconsin run deep, intertwining with the traditions of German immigrants who settled here. Historically viewed as a symbol of good luck and prosperity, this dish often graces tables during special occasions, particularly New Year's celebrations—talk about a tasty family tradition! Moreover, at a time when comfort food couldn’t be more desirable, this dish also connects families over stories and laughter as they gather together, devouring juicy sausage nestled comfortably in a bed of tangy, flavorful cabbage. It’s the gathering plate that unites, whether it’s a Friday fish fry or a summer barbecue with Wisconsin beer brands on ice! What Sides Pair Well? There’s nothing quite like a side of buttery mashed potatoes or a slice of fresh, crusty bread to soak up those delicious juices. And if you want to unleash the true Wisconsinite in you, pile some of Aunt Mabel's creamy coleslaw on the side! Local Takes on the Classic Every region boasts its unique spin on sausage and sauerkraut; you’ll find excellent versions at local supper clubs and farmer's markets. Don’t miss out on places like The Old Fashioned in Madison, famous for putting their own twist on traditional dishes celebrating local flavors, including using Wisconsin cheese curds. And let’s not forget the memorable first bite of a Sheboygan brat—which, by the way, LOVES a good scoop of sauerkraut! It’s like they were meant to be together, like peanut butter and jelly, or Wisconsin beer and cheese—can I get an amen? A Simple Recipe to Celebrate Here's a quick recap to get you started: Ingredients: ½ pound bacon, 1 large yellow onion, 2 pounds kielbasa sausage, 2 pounds sauerkraut, ¼ cup brown sugar, 1 Granny Smith apple, 2 tablespoons brown mustard, ½ teaspoon smoked paprika, ½ teaspoon fresh ground black pepper, and 1 cup apple juice. Instructions: Cook the bacon until crispy, sauté sausages, and then combine everything in a pot to simmer! Remember, this isn't just dinner; it's a culinary embrace from Wisconsin! So if you’re still on the fence about making this recipe, just consider: what's better than a meal that’s equally comforting and casual, allowing you to enjoy life’s wonderful flavors while also sharing a little joy around the table? Conclusion With its rich history and delightful combination of flavors, sausage and sauerkraut is more than just a meal—it's a tradition. It embodies comfort, warmth, and laughter. So go ahead, grab those ingredients and join the ranks of home chefs elevating this comforting classic. And remember, if someone says sauerkraut smells bad, just remind them it’s not just cabbage, it’s happiness simmered to perfection!

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These establishments are not merely restaurants; they are an experience, often featuring menus adorned with golden fried lake perch and steak so juicy it could make a cow shed a tear. There's nothing like sitting in a dimly-lit room surrounded by rustic charm while you decide between the buttery allure of a butter burger recipe and the comforting taste of a Booyah stew recipe. You never know—you might spot someone who’s clearly never left Wisconsin because they’ve turned into a walking cheese wheel after a supper club visit! The Sweet Spot: Wisconsin’s Frozen Custard If there’s one thing that Wisconsin knows how to do exceptionally well (besides making a killer cheese spread), it's frozen custard! As we all know, there’s a reason why Wisconsinites are considered the coldest drinkers—they have to put all that weight into their stomachs somehow! From fudge-topped cones to custard pies that are as rich as the tax returns of coffee-loving millennials, there’s never a wrong way to indulge. So grab your spoons and prepare for a brain freeze, because nothing says summer like a scoop or two! A Toast to Wisconsin’s Craft Beverage Scene And what pairs well with cheese curds and frozen custard, you ask? Why, a refreshing beer from one of Wisconsin’s many craft breweries! Whether it's a crisp lager from Lakefront Brewery or a fruity cetera from any local taproom, Wisconsin’s beer brands could outfit a banquet hall! Beer tasting tours are just as essential to the Wisconsin experience as a Sunday morning fish fry. So make a day of it—wander between breweries and discover why Wisconsin beverage culture is as rich and diverse as its culinary scene. Wrapping It All Together: The Joy of Wisconsin Cooking As you can see, Wisconsin is more than just a place; it’s a lifestyle bursting with flavor, heartwarming stories, and community connection. From exploring local markets to witnessing the unique charm of supper clubs, Wisconsin's food scene invites us to play, taste, and celebrate the extraordinary. So the next time someone says cooking is a burdensome task, you can smile knowingly. After all, who wouldn’t want to transform their kitchen into a slice of Wisconsin culinary heaven? Cheers, and happy eating!

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