Consumers want bolder, more intense flavor experiences, says McCormick
Smoked spices, sour cherries and pickled ginger: McCormick unveils flavor trends to watch in 2015
The report, developed annually by McCormick chefs, culinary professionals, trend trackers and food technologists worldwide, highlights food trends and emerging flavors predicted to impact the way we eat, and has become an annual event in the culinary world, said McCormick Executive Chef, Kevan Vetter.
“Many early trending flavors in past reports have become favorites of today. Take chipotle chile, for instance. When we first identified this chile pepper as a flavor to watch in 2003, many people couldn't pronounce it. Today, it's a household name.
"Pumpkin pie spice, sea salt, coconut water and cocktail-inspired flavors have seen similar success, taking over restaurant menus and grocery store shelves.”
McCormick’s eight flavor trends to watch are:
Global blends on the move – Japanese 7 Spice (Shichimi Togarashi - a combination of chilies, sesame, orange zest, nori and more) offers a new kind of spicy heat, while Shawarma Spice Blend (cumin, cinnamon, black pepper) lends warm, spiced flavor to grilled meats.
Example dishes: Chicken shawarma wrap with cucumber radish relish; spiced date cake with caramel sauce and vanilla whipped cream.
Middle Eastern mezze – Distinctive dips and spreads with zesty herbs and seasonings.
Example dishes: Roasted beet and white bean dip; cumin and coriander marinated olives.
Sour + salt – Look out for coarse salt with pickled ginger, sour cherry, dried mango and lemon zest.
Example dishes: Mango curry lime salt; sour cherry bacon and thyme salt.
Smoked spices – Smoking spices and herbs deepens their flavor and aroma, adding richness to meals and drinks.
Example dishes:Peachy bourbon with smoked cinnamon bitters; smoky sweet pickles with strawberries.
Umami veggies – Look out for savory-tasting veggies such as mushrooms, tomatoes, sweet potatoes and nori.
Example dishes: Asian steak tacos with spicy mushroom salsa; umami vegetable saute with tarragon and white wine.
Liquid revolution – Fresh purees and juices blend with bold spices and herbs to intensify sauces, pasta, and dressings.
Example dishes:Kale, bacon and pistachio pasta; carrot ginger-tini.
Flavor worth the wait – Look out for more aromatic spices and comforting ingredients in slow-cooked meals.
Example dishes: Spiced chicken tagine with preserved lemon and olives; Osso Buco (braised veal shanks with chopped carrots, onion and celery).
Cookies re-imagined – Classic spiced cookie flavors take new form in decadent, imaginative desserts.
Example dishes: Gingersnap creme brulee; peanut butter snickerdoodle tart with cinnamon peanut crust.
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