Just a couple of weeks ago, my culinary journey led me across the vast plains to Des Moines, Iowa, a state renowned for its agricultural heartland and pivotal role in global food production. I was incredibly honored and excited to receive an invitation to the annual Iowa Cornquest-er trip, an immersive experience thoughtfully organized by the esteemed Iowa Corn Association. This unique expedition brought together nine incredibly talented food bloggers – an inspiring group including Sandy, Sommer, Megan, Chung-ah, Heidi, Annalise, Sheila, Nikki, and Jessica – to explore the vibrant world of Iowa corn and its profound impact on our tables and economy. We didn’t quite end up filming “Food-ers of the Corn” in a mysterious cornfield, but the adventure that unfolded was every bit as captivating, albeit much more delicious and educational!
Growing up in the southeastern part of Kansas, I’ve always been surrounded by the sights and sounds of the Midwest, witnessing expansive fields and the rhythms of rural life. However, my direct experience with Iowa was surprisingly limited, often confined to merely driving through it on my way to other destinations. This invitation marked a long-overdue opportunity to truly immerse myself in the Hawkeye State, to move beyond passing glimpses and deeply understand its unique culture and agricultural significance. I eagerly anticipated getting to know Iowa beyond its highways, understanding the profound impact of its vast cornfields, and discovering the rich traditions that define this region. My excitement was palpable, eager to uncover what makes Iowa’s corn industry such a vital and fascinating subject for both food enthusiasts and agricultural advocates.
Join me as we take a delightful look back at the unforgettable highlights of this enlightening journey, exploring everything from local wineries to cutting-edge sustainable farming practices.
Our adventure officially commenced on a Tuesday afternoon as we all converged in Des Moines, a city that proved to be both charming and dynamically modern. The air buzzed with giddiness and anticipation for the enriching experiences that lay ahead. Our inaugural stop on the Iowa Cornquest-er itinerary was the picturesque Madison County Winery. But before delving into the delightful sips, let’s pause to appreciate our truly grand mode of transport for the first day and a half. Our very own tour bus, a rolling behemoth of comfort and style, turned heads everywhere we went. Each time we pulled up to a new destination, people couldn’t help but stop and stare, perhaps half-expecting a legendary rock band like Guns N’ Roses to burst out, ready to launch into an impromptu rendition of “Sweet Child O’ Mine.” This magnificent vehicle certainly set an adventurous and memorable tone for our explorations, making every journey part of the overall experience.
(pic from Heidi)
Arriving at Madison County Winery was like stepping into a serene oasis, a true breath of fresh air amidst the rolling Iowa landscape. Nestled gracefully into the side of a verdant hill, the winery offered an exquisite panorama of meticulously cultivated grapevines stretching as far as the eye could see. This idyllic view, reminiscent of classic pastoral landscapes, instantly resonated with my Midwestern soul, melting away any lingering stress and replacing it with a profound sense of peace and wonder. It was a perfect, unexpected introduction to the hidden beauty that Iowa holds beyond its famous cornfields, highlighting the state’s growing diversity in agriculture and tourism.
The dedicated folks at the winery were exemplary hosts, providing us with an insightful and engaging tour of their operations. We learned firsthand about the meticulous process behind their craft winemaking, as well as their venture into artisan brewing with Twisted Vine Brewery. Having visited Napa Valley on several occasions and living in a state dotted with innovative microbreweries, I can confidently say that Madison County Winery earned a resounding “two sips up” from me. I was particularly impressed by the crisp elegance of their 2012 Vignoles Chardonnay, with its bright, fruit-forward notes, and the distinctive, subtly sweet undertones of their honey-harvested ale. Their commitment to quality, local craftsmanship, and sustainable practices was truly commendable, showcasing Iowa’s burgeoning artisan beverage scene and its contribution to local economies.
Following our delightful wine and beer tasting experience, which showcased Iowa’s unexpected strengths in viticulture and brewing, we transitioned to a charming dinner setting. The ambiance was perfectly curated, illuminated by soft, inviting lights that created a warm and communal atmosphere. Our evening meal was generously provided by the Iowa Pork Association, and as a passionate devotee of pork, I was absolutely thrilled. There’s something uniquely satisfying about perfectly cooked pork – it boasts a mouthwatering juiciness akin to a fine steak, yet with a distinct, rich flavor profile that often surpasses chicken in versatility and depth. And let’s be entirely honest, the mere mention of bacon, ham, or chops reminds us that pork, in its many glorious forms, simply makes everything better!
The dinner menu was ingeniously “corn” themed, demonstrating the incredible versatility of Iowa’s signature crop, which extended to every course, even the delightful dessert. While every dish was a culinary treat, expertly prepared and thoughtfully presented, my absolute favorite was, predictably, the succulent pork. It was masterfully prepared to tender perfection and generously smothered with a locally-made fire pepper jelly, offering a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and a captivating hint of spice. The combination was truly unforgettable, a symphony of flavors unique to Iowa. After this exquisite feast, we gathered outside under the vast, star-studded Midwestern sky, sharing laughter and engaging in lively conversations over glasses of red wine. It was a perfectly serene and satisfying conclusion to a truly fabulous and enlightening first day in Des Moines, leaving us eager for more Iowa adventures and insights into its agricultural wonders.
Wednesday morning dawned bright and early, and we were up and at ’em, buzzing with energy and ready for another day packed with discovery and learning! Our first crucial stop on an already long list of enriching adventures was to fuel up with an authentic farmer’s breakfast at the renowned Gateway Market. This vibrant market immediately struck me as a smaller, more intimate version of a Whole Foods, brimming with local charm and an impressive array of high-quality, regionally sourced produce and artisanal goods. Our breakfast spread was hearty and classic: perfectly cooked potatoes, farm-fresh eggs, crispy bacon, and creamy yogurt with a medley of fresh fruits. And, of course, an abundance of robust coffee was essential to kickstart our day of intense learning about Iowa’s agricultural prowess and its deep connection to the food supply chain.
(top left pic from: Sandy, bottom right pic from: Nikki)
With satisfied bellies and minds eager to learn, we hopped back onto our comfortable tour bus, eagerly anticipating the next significant item on our Cornquest-er agenda: gaining invaluable insights into farming directly from a real, working farmer. We had the distinct privilege of visiting the sprawling and impeccably managed farm of Bob and Nancy Couser, a truly remarkable couple who have owned and diligently operated their family farm since the 1970s. Their story is a powerful testament to generations of relentless hard work, unwavering perseverance, and profound dedication to the land and their livestock. Without the tireless efforts of hard-working families like the Cousers, who form the bedrock of American agriculture and embody the spirit of Midwestern resilience, our plates would be bare, and we’d quite literally be contemplating eating dirt paste. Their contribution to feeding the nation is immense and often unsung.
I was utterly blown away by the sophisticated and deeply sustainable operation they maintained. From “soup to nuts,” as the saying goes, Bob’s family meticulously manages a full, closed-loop sustainable cycle that epitomizes responsible agriculture. They plant and cultivate corn, diligently harvest the ripened crop, then feed this nutritious corn to their cattle. In a brilliant example of agricultural synergy and waste reduction, the nutrient-rich cattle manure is then responsibly collected and used to fertilize new crops, ensuring the soil remains healthy, productive, and teeming with life for future harvests. This continuous cycle of growing, feeding, and enriching the earth is not just efficient; it’s a living model of environmental stewardship and responsible farming practices – truly inspiring and incredibly cool to witness firsthand, highlighting the essence of modern Iowa agriculture.
Following our insightful interview with Bob and Nancy, where we delved into the intricacies of their daily operations and long-term vision, we were treated to a delectable beef sampling session, expertly presented by the wonderful folks from Triple U Ranch. What truly struck me was the sheer resilience and unwavering spirit demonstrated by Elaine, one of the presenters, whose farm had been devastatingly hit by a tornado just a couple of days prior. Despite such profound adversity and personal hardship, she still made the considerable trek down to deliver her presentation with grace, professionalism, and an inspiring determination. Her dedication was simply astounding – talk about a true “badass”! Elaine’s presentation was not only incredibly informative, shedding light on the intricate process of beef production from pasture to plate, but she also provided fascinating insights into the elusive fifth taste: umami, and how it’s naturally present in high-quality, corn-fed Iowa beef. It was a profound lesson in both agriculture and culinary science.
Once we had savored our beef sampling and enjoyed a truly tasty Iowa beef lunch, served in the charming, rustic ambiance of a beautifully preserved 100-year-old barn, steeped in history, it was time to quite literally put “boots on the ground.” Or, in the charmingly practical case of one particular southern Californian blogger, stylish sandals! This phrase perfectly captured our eagerness to step directly into the heart of Iowa’s iconic cornfields and experience them firsthand, an essential and eagerly anticipated part of our corn-centric adventure and an iconic Midwestern experience.
(pic from Heidi)
Stepping into a vast cornfield was a wonderfully nostalgic experience, instantly transporting me back to my childhood days spent growing up in Kansas, surrounded by similar agricultural landscapes. The sight of combines moving methodically across the landscape, the vibrant greens and golds of the maturing crops swaying gently in the breeze, and the sheer scale of it all, evoked a touch of homesickness for the prairie lands. Here’s a fun fact about my childhood imagination: as a little girl, I used to affectionately call hay bales “dinosaur turds”! What a vivid imagination, indeed! Now, for a crucial corn factoid that often surprises people: the towering cornstalks you typically observe from your car window while driving through agricultural areas are generally *not* the sweet corn varieties that grace our dinner plates. In fact, only about 1% of the corn cultivated in Iowa is sweet corn, the delicious type we slather with butter and enjoy at barbecues. The overwhelming majority of Iowa’s corn harvest is dedicated to other vital purposes, primarily serving as feed for livestock, or being processed into ethanol for fuel, demonstrating the crop’s immense versatility, economic importance, and deep integration into various industries.
Our “Tour de Cornquest-er” continued with an exhilarating pit stop at the famous Iowa Speedway, a hub of high-speed action and innovative engineering. The moment we hit the entrance, an immediate chorus of enthusiastic quotes from the classic racing movie Talladega Nights erupted among our group, with my personal favorite being the iconic, highly quotable line: “If you’re not first, you’re last!” This particular tour was undeniably one of the most exciting and unexpected highlights of our trip. We had the incredible opportunity to explore the pit area, getting an up-close look at the high-octane world of professional racing, from the intricate mechanics of the cars to the synchronized teamwork of the pit crews. Even more thrilling, we got to experience a ride in one of the actual race cars, reaching an astonishing speed of 117 mph! The most mind-blowing detail, however, was learning that all these powerful racing machines are entirely fueled by 100% corn-based ethanol, a profound testament to the innovative applications and sustainable potential of Iowa’s signature crop. It was a spectacular demonstration of how Iowa corn powers not just our food, but also high-performance transportation and the broader renewable energy sector.
Following the adrenaline rush at the Iowa Speedway, we made our way back to the designated meeting point for our trusty tour bus, only to discover it had, unfortunately, “bitten the dust” – a true logistical curveball that could have dampened spirits. But not to worry, because in a wonderfully unexpected and utterly glamorous twist, a sleek stretch Hummer limo arrived swiftly to whisk us away to our next destination, transforming a minor setback into an unforgettable, luxurious rescue. Awwwww…..yeahhhhh, talk about traveling in ultimate style and turning a minor inconvenience into a major moment of fun and extravagance!
(pic from Sandy)
Dinner that memorable evening was hosted at an exquisite location: the very top of the state historical building. From this breathtaking vantage point, we were treated to a stunning panoramic view of the beautifully illuminated capitol building and the glittering Des Moines skyline, stretching out before us like a tapestry of light. Des Moines, you truly are a pretty city, especially when viewed from such a privileged perch! We had the immense privilege of sharing our meal and engaging in profound conversation with several more dedicated farmers, each of whom took the floor to eloquently articulate the realities of modern farming. They spoke passionately about the immense work, the evolving expectations, and the constant challenges involved in sustainably keeping consumers happy and fed in the twenty-first century. Listening to them describe their tireless, day-in and day-out dedication, their love for the land, and their commitment to their families and communities brought a lump to my throat and a tear to my eye. Their stories were a powerful reminder of the profound effort, sacrifice, and innovative spirit that goes into every bite we eat. If you ever encounter a farmer, please, give them a tackle hug – they absolutely deserve every bit of appreciation and gratitude for their essential work!
(pic on right from Sandy)
Of course, our fabulous evening, filled with deep conversations and exquisite views, couldn’t simply conclude there! Oh, no! A spirited group of us, along with farmer Dick Gallagher – whom we playfully peer-pressured into joining our late-night adventure – headed straight to the uniquely themed Zombie Burger + Drink Lab. It was the perfect spot for some indulgent late-night snacking and hilarious shenanigans, a quirky contrast to the serious discussions earlier. My personal favorites from their outrageously creative menu were the outrageously delicious Captain Crunch milkshake, a nostalgic blend of sweet and creamy, and the surprisingly addictive gravy fries, a true comfort food delight! As the saying goes, calories don’t count when you’re deeply immersed in the heart of corn country and enjoying such unique culinary experiences, right? It was a wonderfully lighthearted end to an intensely informative day, showcasing the fun and unexpected sides of Des Moines’ vibrant food scene.
(bottom right pic from Nikki)
Our final morning in Des Moines began with a crucial gathering for breakfast at our hotel, followed by an incredibly engaging and enlightening roundtable discussion. We had the distinct honor of conversing with Dr. Ruth MacDonald, the esteemed Chair of the Department of Food Science & Human Nutrition at Iowa State University. And let me tell you, this lady is an absolute wealth of knowledge – she unequivocally knows her stuff! Our discussion delved into a comprehensive range of contemporary food topics that are often debated in mainstream media, covering everything from the complexities of GMOs (Genetically Modified Organisms) and the presence of hormones in beef and milk, to the nuanced debate between organic versus non-organic produce, and even the pervasive trends surrounding gluten-free diets. It was an intellectual feast for the mind, offering deep, evidence-based insights into modern food production, nutrition, and consumer choices.
I must admit, much of the information shared by Dr. MacDonald was quite surprising, challenging some preconceived notions and offering new, science-backed perspectives on critical food science issues. This discussion truly stood out as one of the most intellectual, thoughtful, and thoroughly honest conversations about food production, safety, and nutrition I have ever been privileged to be a part of. Her ability to distill complex scientific concepts into understandable, accessible language, while maintaining an objective and informative stance, was truly remarkable. I honestly believe we need to equip Dr. Ruth with a dedicated “food blogger bat-phone” for those moments of emergency food-related quandaries – her expertise is simply invaluable for navigating the often-confusing landscape of food information!
Our penultimate stop on the expansive Cornquest-er tour took us to the iconic Meredith Corporation, a name synonymous with home and lifestyle publishing, famously known for its flagship publication, Better Homes and Gardens. Walking through their sprawling facilities, I was utterly blown away by the sheer scale, sophistication, and meticulous organization of their entire operation. The experience was nothing short of awe-inspiring for any food or lifestyle enthusiast. I nearly gasped with excitement – perhaps even “peed my pants” a little, as the saying goes – when I caught sight of their legendary test kitchen! To imagine the countless recipes perfected within those state-of-the-art walls, feeding generations of home cooks, was incredible. Can you believe their very first cookbook was published way back in 1930? That represents decades upon decades of culinary heritage and an astonishing volume of trusted recipes. Here’s another fascinating little factoid about their meticulous process: they rigorously test each recipe three to four times to ensure absolute perfection and foolproof results before it ever reaches a reader’s kitchen. They even have a dedicated “grocery lady” on staff, tasked with sourcing fresh ingredients daily, and their digital database boasts an astounding 123,000 meticulously organized recipes, accessible with just a snap of their fingers. It was a profound and inspiring look into the meticulous world of food media and content creation.
While we sadly didn’t get the opportunity to roll up our sleeves and cook within the hallowed confines of the test kitchen itself – a dream for any food blogger – we were treated to an enchanting tour of their prop room. This treasure trove of culinary styling elements – from vintage plates to sleek modern utensils, vibrant linens, and every conceivable piece of kitchenware imaginable – was an absolute visual delight. I mentally declared, “I’ll take one of each, please!” It was a vivid reminder of the artistry involved in making food look as appealing and delicious on the pages of their beloved magazines and cookbooks as it tastes in real life, a testament to the power of visual storytelling in the culinary world.
Our very final stop on the extraordinary Iowa Cornquest-er tour presented a delightful culinary challenge that was shrouded in a bit of mystery, adding an element of fun and surprise. We were unexpectedly dropped off at a Hy-Vee grocery store – still in our fabulous Hummer limo, mind you, which certainly added a touch of glamorous absurdity to the moment, drawing curious stares! Here, the mission was simple yet incredibly exciting: we were tasked with cooking each other’s corn-themed recipes. Naturally, every single dish had to feature corn in some creative and delicious capacity, celebrating Iowa’s golden crop. Yours truly was assigned the delightful responsibility of concocting a refreshing cocktail – specifically, a vibrant Mango Mule. You might be wondering, “Where’s the corn tie-in for a tropical Mango Mule?” The answer, ingeniously, was in the spirit itself: the vodka used in my cocktail was expertly distilled from corn, a perfect and subtle testament to the incredible versatility and widespread applications of Iowa’s signature crop!
(top left pic from Heidi)
Cooking collaboratively in the bustling Hy-Vee kitchen proved to be a lively, if slightly tricky, experience, with multiple bloggers navigating different recipes and workstations simultaneously, all under the clock. However, with teamwork, shared laughter, and a collective passion for food, we skillfully managed to whip up quite an impressive spread of delicious, innovative, and beautifully presented corn-inspired dishes. The ultimate verdict? Hands down, this was some of the best and most creatively executed food I’ve had the pleasure of tasting, a true culmination of our Iowa corn exploration, the culinary genius of talented food bloggers, and the generous spirit of the Iowa Corn Association.
(pic from Nikki)
And just like that, our incredible, whirlwind time exploring the heart of Iowa, powered by corn, innovation, and genuine camaraderie, drew to a close. This entire trip, from its exciting inception to its memorable conclusion, was an absolute blast, filled with enlightening moments, profound insights, and genuine laughter. It was genuinely hard to bid farewell to all my wonderful food blogging buddies. These incredible women represent such a strong, supportive, and inspiring community of culinary creators, and I feel incredibly blessed and grateful to be a part of it. I wholeheartedly encourage you to discover their amazing work and creativity by checking out their fantastic blogs; you’re sure to find a wealth of delicious inspiration!
Last but certainly not least, I want to extend a colossal round of applause and heartfelt gratitude to the Iowa Corn Association and the brilliant team at CMA – especially Roxi and Hana! – for orchestrating such a flawlessly executed, educational, and truly unforgettable event. You ladies are absolute rock stars, handling every detail with expertise, grace, and an infectious enthusiasm. I simply cannot thank you enough for the privilege of allowing me to be a part of such an amazing, eye-opening, and mind-expanding experience. This journey has not only broadened my understanding of agriculture, sustainable food production, and the intricate journey of our food from farm to table but also deepened my appreciation for the hardworking people who make it all possible.
Until next time, Iowa, with all your corn-fed charm, innovative spirit, and unforgettable hospitality!