Random Thoughts

Cooking, cookware and kitchen gadgets never sit still. Product manufacturers, in part spurred by a move to healthier cooking methods, more durability and easier use, offer a wide range of innovative products. The latest trends include exciting news about food, new flavors and the latest cooking methods.

What’s New With Food?

A trend that started last year that’s on its way to superstardom is the protein energy bar. Protein is filling and builds muscles. New organic protein bars made with seven grams of pea protein debuted in January. Greek yogurt is appearing in some unusual places. Because of its health benefits, yogurt producers and restaurants are finding uses for Greek yogurt that go beyond sweet. It’s showing up as an ingredient in main dishes, such as smoked salmon, and in combinations, such as za’atar with olives and bagels. Tea leaves make the ever-popular beverage, but are also finding their way into desserts, marinades and rubs. Mexican flavors continue to be popular. Chamoy sauce is a condiment made from lime, chilies, spices and apricots. A seasoning blend from Brazil, tempero baiano, is a combination of cumin, parsley, pepper and oregano. International flavors are expected to become increasingly prominent on grocery store shelves.

Cookware and Gadgets

Silicone is a heat-safe non-slip, nontoxic and nonstick material that is ideal for all kinds of cooking utensils. Silicone baking mats were introduced to America’s kitchens in 1993, but it wasn’t until recently that it became a popular material for other cooking essentials. Now, you can purchase silicone colanders, steamers, tongs, spatulas, spoons, cutting boards and oven mitts that are flexible and grip well. More brightly colored silicone cooking utensils are on the way.

Nonstick cookware has always been popular in the United States, but worries about toxins within existing surfaces caused worry. The latest nonstick pans are made of ceramic enamel. Ceramic enamel pans have high temperature tolerances and none of the environmental problems that exist in traditional nonstick surfaces.

Cooking appliance colors are coming back in a big way. Manufacturers offer a plethora of color options for most small appliances, including mixers, slow cookers, blenders, waffle machines and coffee makers. Another once popular cooking trend that’s coming back is cast iron cooking. Cast iron grill pans infuse food with that signature grilled flavor, last forever and supply even and lasting heat when cooking.

Other Trends Worth Noting

Not everyone has the time, the money or the inclination to go to culinary school, but more and more local supermarkets are giving shoppers the opportunity to take cooking classes and learn from one another. Cooking demos and community cooking centers give local home chefs a place to learn from one another and develop new skills.

Consumers are also looking at food packaging with a more critical eye. Wasteful packaging is no longer accepted. In fact, a few savvy entrepreneurs have introduced edible packaging in their restaurants to capitalize on the trend.