The Fresh Market has named five food and beverage trends it predicts will be hot in the year ahead, with produce playing a role in each.(Photo courtesy of The Fresh Market)
The Fresh Market in Greensboro, N.C., has identified five food and beverage trends anticipated to gain popularity in the coming year, and each trend incorporates the use of produce.
1. **Latin American Flavors:** The diverse and lively cuisine of Latin America has become a focal point for chefs and food enthusiasts. From the bold spices of Mexico to the vibrant tastes of Brazil, Peru, and Argentina, Latin American flavors provide a unique and exciting culinary experience. The Fresh Market recommends trying their house-made guacamole and empanadas or creating a Latin American-inspired meal with dishes like Moqueca, Caipirinha, and Grilled Salmon with Chimichurri.
2. **Mocktails:** The rise of spirit-free beverages, or mocktails, involves using fresh, seasonal ingredients, carbonated mixers, and unique infusions to create a balance of texture, taste, and aromatics. These drinks, with minimal or no alcohol content, draw inspiration from both culinary and cocktail realms, promoting healthy lifestyle choices. The Fresh Market suggests trying MāKā Wheatgrass Superfood Beverage and Rowdy Mermaid Good Mood Soda or experimenting with their Cranberry Ginger Ale Mocktail and Belvoir Cream Fizz Mocktail recipes.
3. **Global Soups and Stews for the Soul:** The comforting and warming nature of soups makes them a timeless choice. The Fresh Market emphasizes the joy of sharing hearty and healing meals through soups, which can be easily customized based on personal preferences and culinary choices. Featured recommendations include ramen soup, Shrimp Pho, and Malaysian Curry Laksa.
4. **Functional Beverages 2.0:** Functional beverages, known for their health benefits, are evolving with a focus on ingredients that not only promote health but also enhance mood. The Fresh Market highlights the growing popularity of non-alcoholic functional beverages that incorporate these unique and health-conscious elements.
5. **Powerful Pulses:** Pulses, derived from the seeds inside legume pods, are described by The Fresh Market as humble yet versatile ingredients. When cooked, pulses showcase the delicious cuisines of diverse cultures, offering a low-fat and high-protein, high-fiber option. Examples include black beans, chickpeas, French green lentils, and red kidney beans.
