HUNT VALLEY, Md. -- In researching its annual Flavor Forecast, spice company McCormick & Co. found that flavor preferences are actually quite similar around the world.
These themes--from “honoring roots” to “the quest for the ultimate”--are the foundation for the company’s flavor trend forecast for 2012, chosen by a team of chefs, sensory scientists, trend trackers, marketing experts and food technologists.
If the inclusion of “chipotle” on its 2003 forecast is any indication, the flavor trends included in this year’s forecast will be trickling through the foodservice industry for many years to come: Menu mentions of chipotle increased by 54% between 2004 and 2010.
“By taking a global view with the 2012 Flavor Forecast, our goal was to support the innovative chefs and foodservice professionals who are helping drive the growing demand for internationally influenced cuisines. With their passion for food and our insight on flavor, the opportunities for menu innovation are endless,” says McCormick For Chefs executive chef Kevan Vetter.
Following are the Flavor Forecast’s six themes and their accompanying flavor trends.
Trend: Honoring Roots
Chefs inspired by foundational flavors are finding a way to balance modern flair with cultural authenticity.
- Cumin with sofrito, authentic Hispanic foundational flavors
- Korean pepper paste with sesame, Asian pear and garlic, BBQ with a global twist
Trend: Quest for the Ultimate
Flavor fanatics searching for the ultimate taste experience through quality ingredients, flavors and textures.
- Dill with mint, melon and cucumber, the ultimate refresher
- Meyer lemon with lemon thyme, limoncello and lemon peel, the ultimate lemon
Trend: Veggies in Vogue
Fresh, seasonal veggies are dressed to impress with new cooking techniques and inventive bursts of flavor.
- Eggplant with honey and harissa, worldly veggie with sweet heat
- Squash with red curry and pancetta, versatile veggie with a touch of Thai
Trend: Simplicity Shines
Clear, unpretentious flavors are an approachable celebration of the basics. A move away from complexity and flash.
- Ginger with coconut, warm spice joins tropical favorite
- Vanilla with butter, pure essentials for real goodness
Trend: Flavorful Swaps
Balancing bold flavor with hunger for health is key to achieving wellness goals, without sacrificing enjoyment.
- Red tea with cinnamon and plum, better-for-you beverage meets fruit and spice
- Grapefruit with red pepper, a new take on lemon pepper
Trend: No Boundaries
Blending inspirations and shedding the confines of traditional “rules” equals a renewed permission to have fun.
- Sweet soy with tamarind and black pepper, steak sauce with an Asian flair
- Blueberry with cardamom & corn masa, from everyday to extraordinary
To explore the future of flavor with inspired recipes, photos and video, visit www.McCormickForChefs.com/FlavorForecast.
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