Global Flavor Kicks

Unique flavor profiles are hot these days. And we don’t mean spicy. Although some of the latest flavor trends are. Blending the flavors of different nationalities together is often called third culture cuisine, and it’s responsible for some amazing creativity and absolutely delicious dishes. Let’s explore a few easy ways to add global flavors to your menu from 3 countries known for amazing food.

There is no shortage of delicious and unique flavors in Korean cuisine. Add the fact that Korean food is often healthy and simple to prepare, and it fits perfectly into modern dining. Here are two fan favorites that can provide a unique twist to all kinds of menu items.

Gochugaru: This is a sweet and sour red chili paste noted for its distinct flavor profile and ability to complement a variety of meals. Try adding it to ground beef for Korean style burgers, meatballs, or tacos. It’s even great in a traditional spaghetti sauce.

Kimchi: Fermented vegetables, usually cabbage, with a sour, spicy and savory flavor. Kimchi is a side dish that can be added to almost any dish, but can also be used as a glaze for steak, topping on a hotdog or try blending kimchi juice into mayo for a unique condiment.

Mexican food has long been embraced across North America. Mexican cuisine is trending right now because of its versatility. You can easily make it spicy or mild, meat or vegetarian, hot or cold, and it is enjoyed by both young and old. Here are some of the regional flavors people love.

Mole: A complex chili-based sauce that invites countless variations. You can use it to plus up your staple condiments to feature on your sandwiches, burgers or breakfast items. 

Salsa Macha: This is a coarsely textured condiment from Veracruz, Mexico, featuring nuts, dried chilies, garlic, fried white sesame seeds, and olive oil. Of course it can be used as a dip for tortilla chips, but try it as a salad dressing, add it to a grain bowl, or serve it alongside grilled fish or steak.

Guajillo Chili: Offers a smoky flavor with a nice, even heat that can vary from mild to fairly hot with a fruity flavor. Use it in marinades, salsas, and pastes to give a traditional dish a fresh Mexican vibe.

With a long and rich history, emphasis on balance and harmony, use of fresh ingredients, and culinary creativity, a world of playful flavor awaits in China. Choose one of these familiar, craveable flavor systems and innovate from there.

General Tso's: This is a classic of Americanized Chinese cuisine. The combination of crispy, sticky, battered and fried chicken, with a sweet, hot, savory, sour sauce has a lot to offer. Try featuring General Tso's in a lettuce wrap, bowl or taco.

Orange Chicken: Another big favorite that uses a savory, sweet, and sour sauce. Try it with an appetizer of chicken tenders, on a rice-centric bowl build, or switch out orange for a different citrus fruit.

Char Siu: The ultimate Chinese barbecue comfort food and a great platform for culinary play. Made with hoisin sauce, honey, soy sauce, sherry, and Chinese five spice powder. Marinate mushrooms in a char siu sauce served on a steamed bowl with scallions and peanuts, or feature it as a dipping sauce for grilled pork skewers.

There you have it. Easy ways to take your customers on a global flavor journey. From the fiery kick of gochugaru to the craveable comfort of General Tso's, these trending global flavors are ready and waiting for you to make your own. Get creative. Test out some new dishes, and see if anything is good enough to make it onto your menu.