Each year, food experts compile a list of food trends they believe will take foodservice audiences by storm. The experts weigh what’s in, what’s out, and most of all, what’s coming up next. Will we eat more Asian or Latin American-influenced food? What impact will the economy and our time-crunched lives have on what we eat?
In reviewing food trends for 2013, it’s clear peanuts can easily be included across the board. Here are just a few food trends to feast on. Just think of all the unique flavour combinations and health benefits that peanuts could bring to your foodservice establishment.
Regional cooking: The continuing emphasis on local and seasonal foods will lead toward more distinctive regional styles of cooking. Peanuts and peanut butter pair well with a variety of flavours including Asian, Latin and southern dishes for tasty flavour combinations.
Noodles: Look for udon, soba, cellophane and rice noodles to show up in hearty layered bowls, fragrant soups and even multi-textured salads. Peanuts, peanut butter and peanut oil make a great dressing or marinade base for noodle dishes.
Fast food favourites: Mini burgers, Korean tacos and fancy cupcakes with unique flavour combinations will be all the rage. Peanuts and peanut butter don’t have to be limited to breakfast and entrée items. Peanut butter in cupcakes is a popular ingredient and will even kick in some health benefits. Why not be adventurous and add The Food Network’s Peanut Butter Burger recipe to your menu?
Boomer reality: The potential on-set of diabetes, high blood pressure and heart disease on an aging population will require healthier, more closely-monitored diets. Peanuts are cholesterol-free and contain healthy fats and fibre which can help those living with diabetes meet their dietary needs.
Food trucks: There’s no stopping this trend of clever, delicious and reasonably-priced fare created by entrepreneurial chefs serving everything from Filipino and Korean, to PB&J, waffles, burgers and grilled cheese sandwiches. Peanuts and peanut butter are cost-effective options that also add a healthy option to your menu.
Popcorn: Popping up everywhere, popcorn is at the top of numerous trend lists, for both savoury and sweet applications. Try adding peanuts to your popcorn to create a multi-flavoured trail mix that’s perfect for any pub menu.
Beer: Craft beers are in high demand, and nothing pairs better than peanuts. The momentum should continue with beer-flavoured items featured in all sections of the menu, including dessert offerings.
Sources: Businessinsider.com, forbes.com, Houston.culturemap.com, The Food Network