As leading suppliers of the best quality meat Cape Town and Johannesburg have on offer, N1 prides itself on keeping abreast of all the great food trends that tend to make their debut at the start of each new year, and this year is no different. As we embark on 2024, the world of food and dining continues to evolve, bringing us exciting trends and flavours to savour. From unexpected ingredients like fig leaves to the resurgence of classic cocktails, and the rise of music-infused dining – get ready to tantalise your taste buds and discover the culinary delights that await!
1. Fig Leaf Infusions: The humble fig leaf takes centre stage as chefs infuse its sweet and herbaceous flavour into oils, dairy, and cocktails. Look out for fig leaf-infused creations like cocktails, ice creams, and savoury dishes.
2. Hot Sauce Hype: Hot sauce enthusiasts rejoice as the demand for fiery condiments continues to rise. Popularised by the YouTube show Hot Ones, hot sauces are finding their way into home kitchens and restaurant menus, adding a spicy kick to various dishes – order our chicken wings and Peri Peri Marinade if you fancy creating your own version of Hot Ones!
3. Music-Led Dining: Restaurants are embracing music and high-quality sound systems to enhance the dining experience. From live DJs spinning tunes to curated playlists, music is becoming an integral part of the ambience in dining establishments.
4. World Whisky Exploration: Whisky aficionados will expand their horizons beyond the traditional Scotch, Irish, American, and Japanese drams. New Zealand, Nordic nations, France, and Italy are emerging as exciting whisky destinations, offering innovative and diverse options for whisky enthusiasts.
5. Restaurant-to-Retail: Restaurants are diversifying their revenue streams by offering branded condiments and sauces for sale. You can now bring the flavours of your favourite restaurant home with you, from curry sauces to hot sauces.
6. Bean Revolution: Beans and pulses are making a comeback as sustainable and nutritious protein sources. Expect to see bean-based dishes taking centre stage in restaurants and becoming popular among health-conscious consumers.
7. Pet Nat Wines: Pétillant naturel wines, affectionately known as pet nats, are gaining popularity for their fizzy, fruity, and low-alcohol characteristics. These wines offer a refreshing alternative to traditional options.
8. Grand Sharing Dishes: Move over small plates, 2024 is all about showstopping large sharing dishes. These visually impressive and value-packed meals are becoming a hit in restaurants, providing a memorable dining experience – we love the sound of that!
9. Martini Resurgence: The classic martini is making a comeback with a twist. Innovative martini variations, served in unique ways and with surprising ingredients, are popping up in bars and restaurants worldwide.
10. Savoury French Toast: French toast is getting a savoury makeover with creative toppings and ingredients, making it a versatile dish for any time of day – our favourite version is to add cooked mince and top with jalapeños!
These trends reflect a culinary landscape combining boldness and value, catering to various tastes and preferences. Whether you're a fan of fiery hot sauces, a whisky connoisseur, or looking for the perfect sharing dish, 2024 promises an exciting array of dining experiences. Get ready to savour these flavours and remember that N1 offers a wide variety of high-quality foods that are nutrient-dense, great value for money, and can be delivered directly to your door. Call us today so that we can show you how quality, service and delivery remain at the heart of all we do, no matter the trend!
Sources:
The New York Times
National Geographic
