Review: 'Deep Fried Masters'

There are a lot of reasons I go to the Minneapolis State Fair each year and the fact that you can consume more than 70 different items on a stick has to be at the top of the list. So given the Fair's artery-clogging history, it seems more than fitting that the new season of "Deep Fried Masters" begins with a competition to find a new product for the home of all things cooked in oil.

"Deep Fried Masters" is another one of those cooking competition shows, but unlike the variations that feature grilling or BBQ'ing, this one focuses on fair foods that are deep fried. Each episode takes place at a different fair and the goal is not just find the person who's the deep fried master. The judges are also trying to find someone who can create a dish that is original and tasty while still managing to be a profitable item if it's being sold by the thousands.

The season premiere begins with six cooks, who are asked to put together their signature deep fried item. There are some expected dishes, but also some off-the-wall selections such as the deep fried Scotch egg. Two of the contestants are eliminated and the remaining four tackle their best food on a stick. Another contestant is cut and the final three hopefuls are asked to create something original or at least a bit unusual.

I could do without some of the forced trash talk and efforts to build a bit of extra tension between the contestants. But the judges are knowledgeable and provide real insight into the challenges involved in successfully deep frying and selling your favorite food items.

"Deep Fried Masters" isn't rocket science and there's nothing here that you haven't seen before. But it's a fun show and the perfect program to watch on a Saturday night sitting on the couch with that special someone. You'll see some really unusual foods on a stick, some unbelievable cooking techniques and I can almost guarantee you'll be hungry by the time the show is over.

And if "Deep Fried Masters" needs a guest judge the next time they're in town, I hope they give me a call.

"Deep Fried Masters" airs on Destination America on Saturdays at 10/9c.