McCormick Flavor Forecast Reveals Eight Trends for 2015
10 December 2014
15th-annual report highlights top tastes driving the future of flavor and menu innovation.
Sparks, Md.-based McCormick & Company releases its McCormick® Flavor Forecast® 2015, highlighting eight enticing trends that will shape the future of flavor. Now in its 15th year, the much-anticipated report drives flavor innovation and exploration throughout the food industry and in professional kitchens everywhere.
Reflecting the rapidly increasing demand for bolder, more intense flavor experiences, the McCormick Flavor Forecast 2015 pinpoints adventurous global tastes on the rise. The report also showcases new ways to elevate pantry essentials to starring roles.
“The trends highlighted in our 15th-annual Flavor Forecast promise to be new culinary paths for the foodservice industry to explore,” said Megan Ford, vice president of sales and marketing, US Industrial Group, McCormick & Company. “We encourage all chefs to find opportunities to test these approaches on their menus and help reignite everyone’s love for new flavorful food experiences.”
Over the past 15 years, the Flavor Forecast has predicted trends that have changed the way people eat at restaurants. “Many early trending flavors in past reports have become favorites of today, thanks to professional chefs who are passionate about experimenting with new seasoning combinations,” said McCormick For Chefs® Executive Chef Gary Patterson.
Identified by a global team of McCormick chefs and flavor experts, these eight trends offer a taste of 2015 and beyond:
Global Blends on the Move. Japanese seven spice (shichimi tōgarashi) offers a new kind of spicy heat, while shawarma ground-spice blend (coriander seed, allspice, cinnamon, cumin, ginger, turmeric and black pepper) lends warm, spiced flavor to grilled meats and more.
Middle-Eastern Mezze (pictured). These distinctive dips and spreads, packed with zesty herbs and seasonings, offer an approachable and delicious introduction to a vibrant global cuisine.
Sour + Salt. Combining coarse salt with surprising sours like pickled ginger, sour cherry, dried mango and lemon zest results in a lively finishing flavor that lends brightness and texture to dishes.
Smoked Spices. Smoking spices and herbs deepens their flavor and aroma, adding richness to meals and drinks.
Umami Veggies. For a fresh way to savor the tempting “fifth taste,” look no further than naturally umami-rich vegetables such as mushrooms, tomatoes, sweet potatoes and nori.
Liquid Revolution. Fresh purées and juices blend with bold spices and herbs to intensify sauces, pasta, dressings and more—providing a fun, delicious way to enjoy an extra serving of fruits and veggies.
Flavor Worth the Wait. Lift the lid to discover the rich flavors from recipes around the world that meld aromatic spices and comforting ingredients into mouthwatering slow-cooked meals.
Cookies Reimagined. Classic spiced-cookie flavors take new form in decadent, imaginative desserts that redefine “milk and cookies.”
View the Flavor Forecast 2015 for explore more menu ideas online.