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Living in a global society means that customers are regularly exposed to a wide variety of flavors and textures. Whether it is developing an appetite for curry or for borscht, restaurant patrons are increasingly enjoying a variety of new tastes. Adding some international flair to a restaurant menu can be a fantastic way to reach more customers and add a bit a variety to the food options. Here are some easy and delicious ways to add some new tastes at your restaurant.
Bringing In The Tastes Of The Mediterranean Home
As Americans we have realized the various health benefits of following a Mediterranean diet while also coming to appreciate the light flavors and textures that usually accompany it. Look for recipes that add pine nuts, avocados, feta cheeses, and even high quality olive oils. While they might sound like simple additions, these ingredients can make ordinary recipes extraordinary.
Yogurt
Yogurts are used in a variety of different regions to make everything from dressings to marinades to vegetable dips. It is popular from the Mediterranean region through Southeast Asia. This delicious alternative to creams and other high fat options helps to keep food moist while adding some wonderful flavors to the meal. It can be used to add variety to appetizer trays, chicken dishes, or even used on salads.
Spices
Spices are one of the easiest ways to transport people’s taste buds overseas. Some flavors have become very popular in recent years. For example, adding some chili powder can help a dish have more of a Southwest or Mexican style twist. Parsley and oregano immediately bring Italy to mind. Spiced lentils or a curry based dish will be reminiscent of India. With just a few simple spices, guests can travel the world.
Breads
Nearly every culture has developed some kind of bread. Whether it is the long, narrow baguettes that France is known for, or the flatbreads popular throughout the Middle East and parts of Africa, experimenting with different types of breads is a way to help even the most picky guests explore. Consider offering appetizer trays with different flatbreads or meals with seasoned Italian breads, all baked in-house.
Soups
Soups are another great food staple that is almost universal. Restaurants can use soups to capture a wide range of cultural tastes. Including root vegetables, such as beets, potatoes, and onions will call to mind the Eastern European staple of borscht. Long noodles and some light vegetables will seem inspired by Asia. Perfectly sharpened knives will make all the chopping a breeze.
Cheese
As people expand their palates, they often enjoy trying new cheeses. Goat and sheep cheeses, which are popular throughout Europe, are growing in popularity. Some of the stronger tasting, aged cheeses from countries like France are becoming more popular as well. Incorporate these options in appetizers, salads, soups, and similar dishes.
Adding some international textures and flavors to the restaurant menu can be a fantastic way to encourage creativity from the chefs, add variety to the menu, and attract new patrons. Adding international ingredients does not have to mean making unfamiliar foods. By just experimenting with spices and styles, chefs can add just enough flair to make their dishes something wonderful. Consider giving just one or two of the above suggestions a try and see what a difference it can make.