Explore the 10 Indian Food Trends shaping 2023! From Millet Mania to Regional Delicacies & Plant-Based Power, the culinary scene is evolving. Embrace the flavors & join the food revolution!
Namaste, food
lovers! Get ready to tantalize your taste buds because the Indian culinary landscape is about to get a major upgrade. Forget the same old dal makhani and butter chicken (though we love those too!).
The coming year promises a flavour explosion of innovative dishes, sustainable practices, and a renewed focus on health and wellness. From forgotten grains making a comeback to regional delicacies finally getting their due, there's a lot to be excited about.
Let's dive into the ten Indian food trends that are set to dominate our plates and palates in the year ahead.
Millet Mania Continues
Remember when millets were just something your grandparents talked about? Well, those days are long gone! After the UN declared 2023 as the International Year of Millets, these tiny titans of nutrition have firmly cemented their place in the Indian food scene.
Expect to see millets popping up in everything from dosas and idlis to salads and even desserts. Why the hype? They're incredibly versatile, gluten-free, packed with fiber and nutrients, and good for the planet too, requiring much less water than rice to grow.
So, get ready to embrace the millet revolution! Bakers are even experimenting with millets to make cakes, and it is surely healthy to consume.
Regional Indian Cuisine Takes Center Stage
Beyond the familiar North Indian favorites, India boasts a treasure trove of regional cuisines, each with its unique flavors, ingredients, and cooking techniques. The coming year will see a surge in restaurants and home chefs showcasing the culinary gems of states like Kerala, Assam, and Rajasthan.
Think Malabar Parotta from Kerala, Assam’s Khar, and delectable Rajasthani Thalis. This trend is driven by a growing desire for authentic and diverse culinary experiences, as well as a rediscovery of our rich cultural heritage.
Everyone loves a new taste, and this is one of the most exciting food trends that is coming this year.
Plant-Based Power
The plant-based movement is no longer a niche trend but a mainstream phenomenon. With increasing awareness about health, sustainability, and animal welfare, more and more Indians are opting for vegetarian and vegan options.
This has led to a boom in innovative plant-based products and recipes, using ingredients like jackfruit, mushrooms, and soy to create delicious and satisfying meat alternatives. Expect to see more restaurants offering dedicated vegan menus and a wider variety of plant-based snacks and beverages.
The idea is not to try and imitate non-veg foods, but to create new and innovative vegetarian options. Jackfruit based meals are the highlights here, although some brands that specialise in tofu are also changing the game.
Fermented Foods Find Favor
Fermented foods have been a part of Indian cuisine for centuries, from pickles and dosas to kanji and chutneys. But now, they are enjoying a resurgence in popularity due to their numerous health benefits.
Fermentation is a process that enhances the nutritional value of food, making it easier to digest and boosting gut health. Expect to see more fermented dishes on menus, as well as a wider availability of fermented products like kombucha, kefir, and sauerkraut, all made with a desi twist.
These old fashioned traditions are making a comeback and the science suggests that it is for good reason. Our digestive systems are going to breathe a sigh of relief with the introduction of these foods into our regular diets.
Desi Superfoods Shine
Forget imported avocados and quinoa – India is home to a wealth of indigenous superfoods that are just as nutritious and beneficial. Ingredients like turmeric, moringa, ashwagandha, and amla are gaining recognition for their powerful antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immune-boosting properties.
Expect to see these desi superfoods incorporated into everything from smoothies and juices to snacks and main courses. People have started to care about what they are consuming and this has lead to the resurgence of these old ingredients.
Chefs have found innovative ways of adding these desi ingredients into their recipes.
Mindful Eating and Sustainable Practices
As consumers become more conscious of the impact of their food choices, there's a growing emphasis on mindful eating and sustainable practices. This includes sourcing ingredients locally, reducing food waste, and supporting ethical and environmentally friendly farming methods.
Expect to see more restaurants adopting zero-waste policies, promoting seasonal and sustainable menus, and educating consumers about the importance of responsible food consumption. The future of food is all about sustainability and reducing our carbon footprint.
This trend will only grow as people become more aware of their impact around them.
Indian culinary trends embrace global practices for a healthier future
These trends highlight the Indian culinary world's readiness to adopt global best practices and showcase local culture. Each of these trends contribute to a healthier future.
