The Ultimate Guide to Trending Foods in 2016
Alright, food enthusiasts, buckle up! We're about to dive into the trending foods of 2016. This isn't your average food trends article, though. We've done our homework, and we're bringing you the must-know dishes and ingredients that are taking the culinary world by storm. So, let's get started! Guys, explore more in Guides And Explainers and trending food 2016.
Plant Power: The Rise of Vegan and Vegetarian Cuisine
2016 was the year that plant-based diets stepped into the limelight. From vegan burgers that could fool the most die-hard carnivores to cauliflower being hailed as the new quinoa, plant-powered dishes were everywhere.
The Vegan Burger Revolution
At the forefront of this trend was the Impossible Foods burger, a plant-based patty that bleeds like the real thing. It was served in high-end restaurants and fast-food chains alike, proving that vegan food could be just as delicious and satisfying as its meaty counterparts.
Cauliflower: The New Quinoa
Remember when quinoa was the darling of the health food scene? Well, cauliflower took its place in 2016. From cauliflower rice to cauliflower pizza crust, this humble vegetable showed up everywhere. It was even used to make cauliflower steaks, a hearty and satisfying main dish.
The Middle East Takes Center Stage
In 2016, Middle Eastern cuisine finally got the recognition it deserves. Zhoug, a spicy, herbaceous sauce, was the star of the show, adding a kick to everything from grilled meats to vegetable dishes. And let's not forget pita and flatbreads, which were used to create delicious sandwiches and wraps.
Zhoug: The Spicy Star
Zhoug, a Yemenite hot sauce, made waves in 2016. This green sauce, made with parsley, cilantro, jalapenos, and cardamom, added a fiery, herbaceous note to dishes. It was so popular that it even made an appearance on Bon Appétit's list of 2016's best recipes.
Pita and Flatbreads: The New Sandwich Bread
Pita and flatbreads were the unsung heroes of 2016. They were used to create Israeli-style sandwiches, filled with everything from grilled meat to falafel. And they weren't just for savory dishes - sweet flatbreads, like manakish, were also a big hit.
The Sweet Side: Desserts and Sweeteners
The Dessert Trend: Smaller, Sweeter
2016 was the year of the mini dessert. Bite-sized treats like macarons and mini tarts were all the rage. And it wasn't just about size - these desserts were also sweeter than ever. Condensed milk and sweetened condensed milk were used in everything from ice cream to cakes.
The Sweetener Trend: Honey and Maple Syrup
Honey and maple syrup were the sweeteners of choice in 2016. They added a natural, complex sweetness to dishes, and they were used in everything from savory glazes to sweet desserts. Artisanal honey and single-origin maple syrup were particularly popular.
The Drink Trend: Fermentation Nation
2016 was the year of fermentation. From kimchi to kombucha, fermented foods and drinks were everywhere. Kefir and yogurt made a comeback, and sour beers became a thing. And let's not forget fermented hot sauce, which added a tangy, spicy kick to dishes.
Kombucha: The Probiotic Drink
Kombucha, a fermented tea drink, was the health drink of choice in 2016. It was praised for its probiotic benefits and its unique, slightly effervescent taste. It was even used in cocktails and mocktails.
Sour Beers: The New Craft Beer
Sour beers, like gose and lambic, were the new craft beer in 2016. These tart, funky beers were a refreshing change from the hoppy IPAs and malty stouts that had dominated the craft beer scene.
The Tech Trend: Food Tech and Delivery Apps
Food tech was big in 2016. Delivery apps, like UberEats and DoorDash, made it easier than ever to get your favorite restaurant meals delivered right to your door. And meal kit services, like Blue Apron and HelloFresh, made home cooking a breeze.
Delivery Apps: Food at Your Fingertips
Delivery apps were the game-changer in 2016. They made it possible to order food from any restaurant and have it delivered in minutes. They also made it easier for restaurants to reach new customers.
Meal Kit Services: Home Cooking Made Easy
Meal kit services were a lifesaver in 2016. They delivered fresh, pre-portioned ingredients right to your door, along with step-by-step recipes. It was like having a personal chef - without the cost.
The Future of Food: What's Next?
So, what's next in the world of food? Only time will tell. But one thing's for sure - the food scene is always changing, always evolving. And we, for one, can't wait to see what trending foods 2017 has in store.
Stay hungry, food lovers.