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Egg yolks all day, sweet heat and modern Mediterranean are among the 2017 flavor trend predictions made by chefs, culinary professionals, trend trackers and flavor experts at McCormick & Co., which recently released the 2017 version of its annual Flavor Forecast.
"This year, the Flavor Forecast identifies cutting-edge flavors that help chefs, tastemakers and home cooks refresh their menus," said McCormick Executive Chef Kevan Vetter, in a statement. "Discover a new all-purpose seasoning – Baharat. It's a fragrant, Eastern Mediterranean blend of spices such as cumin, cardamom, black pepper, nutmeg and more. Sprinkle over warm, seasonal soups, stir into tomato-based sauces, or add to your favorite chicken dish."
Breakfasts with global flavors are being sought by flavor adventurists who aren't content with the same old, same old. McCormick suggests warm, sweet congee or a Middle-eastern inspired breakfast hash topped with spicy skhug sauce.
Hailing from Spain, the Basque region of France and Mexico, the thick flat slab of cast iron known as plancha is growing in popularity for creating a sizzling smoky sear and flavor crust. Grillers can use the plancha with meat, seafood and vegetables paired with bold sauces, rubs and glazes.
Whether poached, fried or cured, chefs are pairing egg yolks with a range of spices, herbs and sauces on lunch and dinner menus.
Pictured is Mediterranean Vegetable Shakshuka - Sunny-side-up egg yolks simmered in a tomato and vegetable sauce.
Modern Med brings together Eastern Mediterranean ingredients with Western European classics like in this Eastern Mediterranean Bolognese.
"With an up-front bite and lingering sensation, peppercorns are finally capturing the spotlight. Their cedar and citrus notes pair perfectly with up-and-coming naturally sweet ingredients like dates and dragon fruit," according to the forecast.
Dragon Fruit & Strawberry "Poke" with Pepper Syrup is an example. It combines fresh strawberry and diced dragon fruit salad atop a dollop of peppered whipped cream and crispy wontons.
