Lamb belly, sour flavors, kagoshima wagyu, fancy fast food, creative food pairings, and sriracha popcorn…they are all among some of the top food trends for 2013. Look for them to either go mainstream or pick up heat and momentum.
SRIRACHA & POPCORN…HOT STUFF
The perfect marriage, this sweet-and-spicy combo of Asian sauce and popcorn gives the classic treat the perfect touch. And this spicy friend has some nutritional advantages as well. In 2012, researchers revealed that it was a higher source of antioxidants than fruits and vegetables. Moreover, get ready to see it everywhere from a fancy appetizer, entrees, ice cream, and even breakfast!
Read Related: Make Friends With Farro: Farro Kale Salad
KALE, EVEN HOTTER…NUTRITION-WISE
As we keep eating more mindfully, this superfood wins a special place in this new year. The more awareness we bring to our eating habits and food, the more superfoods like kale will remain a part of everyone’s menu.
MORE MENU OPTIONS
As we raise food awareness, we will see more restaurants, cafes, and even food markets offering more gluten-free, dairy-free, non-GMO, vegan, and vegetarian options including pastries and desserts.
SMALLER IS BETTER
Say goodbye to large dishes—we are entering a more humble trend where smaller dishes will rule. Speaking of smaller, tapas and montaditos will lead the way.
SOUR HITS THE SWEET SPOT
Yes, bitter flavors will be hot and trendy and they will balance flavors; adding body and sophistication to all dishes. You will see them taking over both food and drinks including fermented and pickled foods, bitters, and aperitifs.
LAMB VS. PORK: THE BELLY OF THE BEAST
Pork belly definitely had its time of glory in 2012. Well, lamb belly is coming to take its place in 2013 and so is kagoshima wagyu—no, not just wagyu beef (that’s so 2012).
Kagoshima wagyu beef (Japanese beef) is super tender and full of flavor; the results of carefully raised cattle in green and natural environments. But no worries, you won’t need to pay for all five stars to try it—it’s coming to the local restaurant near you and it will be most likely served with hand-cut pomme frites.
What’s your 2013 Food Trend?
