Trends for Fall/Winter 2024
See what’s hot in commercial foodservice and what you need to stay on trend.
Trend #1: Maple All Day
"Maple’s sweetness, caramel notes, subtle hints of vanilla and spices provide a depth of flavor that works beautifully in a huge variety of sweet and savory dishes. Breakfast is only the beginning.” — CHEF ZELLER, Corporate Executive Chef, Simplot
Breakfast Crunch Wrap
Looking for a portable meal packed with savory-sweet flavors and a satisfying crunch? Fill a flour tortilla with scrambled eggs, maple waffle bites, a crunchy tostada shell, fresh chopped Romaine and a flavorful everything bagel avocado spread. Then grill it to golden perfection for a delicious meal to serve for breakfast or any time of day.
Maple City® Korean Loaded Fry
Loaded fries can work for any daypart, and you know your customers love ‘em. Try out this Korean-inspired version, with crispy Maple City® Waffle Fries and roasted maple sweet potatoes as the base. Then pile on tender, spicy shredded beef and edamame, and top them off with a house-made gochujang aioli and chili crunch drizzle.
Elephant Ear Waffle Fries
An easy late-night snack or dessert that resembles the nostalgic fried dough treat we remember from the fair. Load up a plate of crispy Maple City® Waffle Flavored Waffle fries tossed lightly in cinnamon sugar and use as a base to serve two ways. The house-made créme anglaise style-sauce pairs well with raspberries and lemon, or with chocolate sauce and chopped macadamia nuts.
Bacon Pimento Cheese Bites
If you’re looking for something new and different to add to your menu lineup, these fun little stackers pack a big flavor punch in every bite! Layer Maple City® Waffle Fries with pimento cheese, house-made bacon jam and a dollop of creamy dill avocado spread—absolutely delicious and versatile for any daypart.
Trend #2: Regional BBQ
"As Americans, we tend to think of barbecue as an American institution. But barbecue is an international phenomenon with new ideas and flavors coming from all over. And now those flavors are finding huge followings in the U.S." — CHEF KINKADE, Director of Culinary, Simplot
Beer Can Braised Chicken with Smoked Paprika and Cilantro-Lime Rice
Perfectly seasoned, tender and juicy beer-braised chicken served on a bed of cilantro lime rice and topped with corn and jalapeño salsa. Bring the meal together with a creamy and vibrant house-made avocado green goddess sauce. It’s elevated comfort food at it’s very finest!
Gamja Potato Trio
These Gamja (potatoes) are extremely popular side dishes in Korean cuisine, and when you taste them, you’ll understand why. Prepared three ways using readily available ingredients, you’ll get three different dishes with traditional flavor profiles. Serve them with a barbecued or slow-roasted meat entrée or on their own as a tasty appetizer.
Hamptons in October Clam Bake
Get all the vibrant flavors of a traditional clam bake, but make it easy to prepare (and serve). Make it sheet-tray style; with all the flavors of roasted potatoes, corn and caramelized-style onions, and traditional seafood additions. You’ll get authentic results with prep that your kitchen and wait staff will appreciate, and your patrons will love!
Sonoran Hot Dog
Take a traditional hot dog, wrap it in bacon, then top it with caramelized onions, corn and black beans, and drizzle generously with two unique house-made sauces. What do you have? A wonderfully elevated familiar favorite loaded with unexpected international flavors. Serve it on a bed of crispy fries for "extra points".
Trend #3: Hand-Held Snack Attack
“Snacking is deeply embedded in social activities and events. From watching movies and sports to holiday gatherings and parties, snacks are a staple that enhances social experiences and foster a sense of community.” — CHEF GREATTING, Culinary Content Chef, Simplot
Smoked Brisket Slider with Dill Avocado Spread Slaw
Serve up a stack of these little hand-held sliders on your appetizer or snack menu. Loaded with tender smoked brisket, crunchy napa cabbage slaw and a bright, spicy Piri Piri sauce that really pops—these little sandwiches, served on sesame brioche buns, really satisfy.
Korean Gamja Corn Dog
Indulge in the irresistible portable Korean street treat—corn dogs! Dip skewered hot dogs in a slightly sweetened batter and coat with two different kinds of potato chunks. Deep fry to crispy golden brown perfection and drizzle with a variety of sauces. So different, so good.
Seekh Kebab French Taco
French tacos are more like a grilled burrito than a traditional taco. This version includes perfectly seasoned grilled lamb, crispy fries, and peppers and onions wrapped in pliable lavash bread that's grilled until crispy. Served with two house-made sauces, these make for a tasty portable meal or snack!
Chocolate Chip Cookie Shot with Blueberry Filling
Delicious chocolate chip cookie cups baked to perfection and filled with blueberry pastry cream, then finished with lemon zest and blueberries. Put these delicious little cuties in your grab-n-go case and they’ll practically sell themselves!
Trend #4: Creative Sauces
“We all know how important limited-time offers are in driving traffic today. Unique sauces and glazes are an easy, inexpensive way to transform everyday items into something worth a drive across town to enjoy.” — CHEF GREATTING, Culinary Content Chef, Simplot
From the blog
Tap Into Maple
Pumpkin spice has finally met its match. The reigning flavor of fall, according to consumers, is maple. And we couldn't agree more! Read on for information, recipes, and inspiration to include more maple on your menu.
From Korea to the Caribbean: BBQ's Flavorful Regional Journey
If you want to bring some excitement to your menu, explore regional BBQ flavors from Korea to the Caribbean. The possibilities for new entrées and side dishes are endless—and delicious!
Small Plates, Big Profits: The Snacking Opportunity
It’s official, snacks and small plates are more popular than ever, and patrons want to see creative, fun and reasonably-priced options on menus. Are you keeping up with this trend?
Savor the Success: Signature Sauces
Looking for a way to boost your menu appeal? House-made, signature sauces may be just the thing! Discover how signature sauces elevate dishes with bold, craveable flavors that customers love.