The report reflects on the increasing demand for bolder, more intense flavour experiences, pinpointing global tastes such as Japanese 7 Spice (Shichimi Togarashi) and robust flavours developed in slow-simmered dishes from around the world.
The report also showcases new ways to elevate pantry essentials to starring roles, like smoking spices and herbs or pairing sours with coarse salt.
Kevan Vetter, executive chef at McCormick, said: “Many early trending flavours in past reports have become favourites of today. Take chipotle chili, for instance. When we first identified this chili pepper as a flavour to watch in 2003, many people couldn’t pronounce it, Today, it’s a household name.
“Pumpkin pie spice, sea salt, coconut water and cocktail-inspired flavours have seen similar success, taking over restaurant menus and grocery store shelves. The flavour trends highlighted within our 15th annual Forecast promise to do the same.”
The Flavour Forecast, established in 2000, is created by a global team of McCormick experts - including chefs, culinary professionals, trend trackers and food technologists.
The full 2015 McCormick Flavour Forecast reads as follows:
• Global Blends On the Move – Japanese 7 Spice (Shichimi Togarashi) offers a new kind of spicy heat, while Shawarma Spice Blend lends warm, spiced flavour to grilled meats and more
• Middle Eastern Mezze – 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 flavour that lends brightness and texture to dishes
• Smoked Spices – Smoking spices and herbs deepens their flavour and aroma, adding richness to meals and drinks
• Umami Veggies – For a fresh way to savour the tempting “fifth taste,” look no further than naturally umami-rich veggies like mushrooms, tomatoes, sweet potatoes and nori
• Liquid Revolution – Fresh purées and juices blended 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
• Flavour Worth the Wait – Lift the lid to discover the rich flavours from recipes around the world that meld aromatic spices and comforting ingredients into mouth-watering, slow-cooked meals
• Cookies Reimagined – Classic spiced cookie flavours take new form in decadent, imaginative desserts that redefine “milk and cookies.”