Winter Menu Trends

The current winter food trends are characterized by a blend of innovation, health consciousness, global influence, and environmental responsibility.

- Sharmila Chand

They reflect a culinary world that is increasingly dynamic, diverse, and attuned to the needs and preferences of a global audience.

We talk to Culinary Heads and leading chefs to understand the key trends and their comfort food in winters.

Food Trends this

Season Chef Jerson Fernandes, Director of Culinary, Novotel Mumbai Juhu Beach

The current winter food trends reflect a diverse and innovative culinary landscape, catering to evolving consumer tastes and environmental concerns. These trends include:

Comfort Foods with a Twist: Traditional comfort dishes are being reinvented with unique and unexpected flavours. This trend sees classic recipes infused with new ingredients, offering a novel twist while maintaining the familiar warmth and heartiness 

Plant-Based and Vegetarian Offerings: With a growing emphasis on health and sustainability, there's an increased demand for plant-based and vegetarian options. Winter menus are incorporating seasonal vegetables and plant proteins in creative and satisfying ways.

Winter Superfoods: Chefs and consumers are focusing on the nutritional benefits of winter superfoods like kale, Brussels sprouts, pomegranates, and citrus fruits. These ingredients not only offer health benefits but also add vibrant flavours to winter dishes.

Global Flavours and Spices: There's a significant trend towards incorporating global flavours, particularly from Middle Eastern, Indian, and Southeast Asian cuisines. These cuisines are known for their rich spices and herbs, bringing warmth and depth to winter meals.

Hot Beverages with Unique Infusions: Moving beyond traditional hot chocolates and mulled wines, the trend is towards hot beverages with unique flavour infusions. These include herbal blends and exotic spice combinations, offering both comfort and a sensory exploration.