The food trends of 2024 are being influenced by a desire for authenticity, a commitment to environmental preservation, and a craving for diverse flavors, as experts in the industry predict. By consulting a variety of professionals, including chefs and a food futurologist, we were able to gain insight into what to expect in the culinary world for the upcoming year. Here are some of the key trends they shared according to Time:
Exploring Global Cuisines
Prepare to encounter new global flavors without having to travel far. A trend known as third culture cuisine, which combines elements from a chef’s unique background, is set to make a significant impact. This trend can be seen in establishments like wafu Italian restaurants, which fuse Japanese and Italian influences, as well as Filipino-British bakeries. Experts like Claire Lancaster from WGSN highlight how chefs are now putting more emphasis on crafting dishes that showcase their complex cultural identities with authenticity.
Increasing Popularity of Asian Ingredients
Asian flavors are expected to continue rising in popularity. Predictions from Denise Purcell at the Specialty Food Association suggest that black sesame, ube, and milk tea will follow the path of matcha in gaining mainstream recognition. These flavors are making their way into desserts and snacks, such as black sesame cookies and milk tea popcorn. Andrea Xu from Umamicart points out the growing fascination with Asian fruits like rambutan, pink guava, and a variety of dragon fruit, which provide a perfect addition to smoothies.
Focus on Sustainability
Sustainability is playing a significant role in shaping food trends. Companies are developing innovative products to reduce their environmental impact, like alternative chocolates made without cocoa and waterless plant milks in powder form. Anticipate seeing more drought resistant crops like prickly pear cactus in snacks and an emphasis on underutilized marine ingredients such as urchins and fish roe for their rich, umami flavors.
Embracing Mushrooms
Mushrooms are being embraced as a versatile meat substitute. Todd Anderson from Turnip Vegan Recipe Club anticipates an increase in homegrown mushrooms and inventive mushroom-based dishes, like mushroom meatballs and shiitake bacon. These fungi are simple to cultivate and experiment with, even in urban environments.
Highlighting Vegetables
Restaurants with a focus on vegetables will see a surge in popularity. Chef Matty Matheson predicts that chefs will explore new ways to prepare vegetables, such as grilling or pureeing broccoli and cooking Brussels sprouts leaves. This trend reflects a growing recognition of vegetables as the main attraction on the plate.
Creative Cocktails with a Culinary Twist
Mixologists are incorporating culinary elements into their cocktails. Lauren Paylor O’Brien envisions more sensory experiences, such as pairing honey ice cream with olive oil and a whiskey cocktail. Bars are expected to offer cocktails with unexpected ingredients like beef, charred corn husks, and shiitake mushrooms.
Conscious Consumption
The trend of mindful drinking is on the rise, as more individuals are choosing to switch between alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages depending on the situation. Expert Derek Brown foresees a surge in non-alcoholic wines that are infused with teas and extracts to provide an extra layer of taste.
Exciting Tastes and Hues
Expect snacks to showcase daring and distinctive flavors, such as Sichuan Peppercorn Doritos and jamon-flavored potato chips. Chef Michele Mazza envisions pasta with unique flavors like squid ink and truffle-infused pasta becoming increasingly popular. The color blue will take over food palettes, drawing inspiration from nature, while floral ingredients like rose, lavender, and violet will add a comforting touch to a variety of dishes. By 2024, the culinary landscape will strike a balance between innovation, sustainability, and authenticity, introducing new and thrilling flavors and experiences while keeping a strong focus on environmental and mental well-being.
