2023 is set to be a year of culinary exploration and innovation. As chefs strive to stay ahead of the curve, they’re paying attention to a host of different ingredients. From vegan proteins to sustainable seafood, here are the top ingredients that should be on your radar.
1. Plant-Based Proteins
Plant-based proteins like tempeh, seitan and textured vegetable protein will continue to grow in popularity as more consumers embrace a plant-based diet. These proteins offer a healthy and sustainable alternative to meat and can be used to create everything from burgers and tacos to stir-fries and salads.
Read more: How to Prevent and Manage Chronic Diseases with a Nutrition Conscious Diet
2. Sustainable Seafood
Sustainable seafood is also on the rise in 2023. With growing concerns about overfishing and plastic pollution, consumers are more aware of where their food comes from than ever before. The trend toward sustainable seafood means that chefs have to be conscious of where they source their ingredients – but it also offers an opportunity to explore unique varieties of fish and other marine life with minimal environmental impact. In 2023, you’ll see more recipes featuring sustainable varieties of fish such as salmon, cod and bass.
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3. Ancient Grains
Ancient grains like quinoa, farro, and amaranth are making their way onto dinner plates worldwide. These nutrient-packed grains provide an excellent source of fiber and help to add texture to any dish. Ancient grains offer a healthy alternative to refined white flour and contain far more nutritional value. They also add an interesting twist of flavor to savory dishes as well as desserts.
4. Fermented Foods
From kimchi to sauerkraut, fermented foods offer a unique taste and are full of gut-friendly probiotics. They can be used in everything from salads and sandwiches to soups and stir-fries. Fermented foods are easy to make and can be used as a base for other dishes, helping chefs create unique flavours without relying on processed ingredients.
Read more: How Restaurants find Success Catering to Health-Conscious Consumers
5. Super Seeds
Super seeds such as chia, hemp, and flax have increased in popularity with the increasing shift to vegan and vegetarian diets. They are high in essential omega-3 fatty acids and are loaded with vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Super seeds can be combined with various other ingredients to make delicious snacks or added to smoothies for a nutritional boost.
6. Insects
While perhaps not yet a staple in most people’s diets, insects are becoming increasingly popular as a sustainable source of protein. They are packed with micronutrients and contain far less fat than other sources, such as beef or pork, making them an ideal choice for those who want to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Insects can be roasted and added to salads, soups, stews, and stir-fries for an extra crunchy element.
Read more: 5 Nutrition Trends Shaping 2024: What You Need to Know
How MenuSano can help
As the world of food evolves, so do the ingredients that are used to create delicious and nutritious dishes. From exotic spices and super seeds to insects and plant-based proteins, 2023 is sure to be a year filled with trendsetting culinary delights. Pay attention to nutrition facts and keep an eye out for these top trending ingredients as you explore new flavors in the upcoming year!
No matter how innovative or trending these ingredients are, they still all need to have their nutritional information revealed to your customers in order to help them make the right choices.
Get started with a free trial of MenuSano today and see how easy it can be to create nutritional infomation labels!
