The spark of creativity that comes from a discovery of a “new-to-you” flavor or ingredient is a significant driver of culinary inspiration. At a time when consumers are eager to explore globally inspired tastes, these flavor discoveries are a worthy investment in the menu development process.
Each year, we ask a handful of chefs across the country to share recent “flavor finds” inspiring their culinary development. This project always yields intriguing discoveries, unveiling new-to-us ingredients we’re eager to share with our readers. In the first installment of this two-part series, eight chefs share flavor discoveries that have prompted further exploration. We hope this inspires culinary creativity in your kitchens and across the broader foodservice landscape.