Caribbean cuisine is captivating consumers’ cravings! The global food and flavor trend has consumers looking to every corner of the world for exciting new eating experiences. With vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients, Caribbean cuisine has been piquing consumers’ interest as they seek out exotic foods to shake up their routines.
When it comes to innovating with Caribbean flavors, the possibilities are seemingly endless! Keep reading for our experts’ insights into how brands can capitalize on this trend to introduce Caribbean inspired products that consumers will totally crave.
Why Caribbean Cuisine?
The foods and flavors of the Caribbean reflect the diversity of the region, drawing influence from African, Latin American, South Asian, and European cuisines. With fusion cuisine on the rise, it comes as no surprise, therefore, that consumers have been gravitating towards Caribbean cuisine. Its tropical vibes also offer much-needed escapism, positioning it perfectly for appealing to adventurous consumers who use food as a means of exploration.
In addition to its alignment with global and fusion flavor trends, Caribbean cuisine happens to feature several plant-based ingredients that have been in demand with health-conscious consumers. For example, cassava, a starchy root vegetable that has been picking up steam as a snack base, serves as a side dish and a staple ingredient in baked goods, soups, and beverages across the Caribbean. Plantains, too, have seen a surge in popularity, thanks to their versatility and nutritional value.
As Caribbean cuisine plays into both the plant-based and global flavor trends, products that draw inspiration from its flavors and ingredients will have widespread appeal.
Innovate with Authentic Flavors
Right now, the global food and flavor trend is all about authenticity and embracing exotic and unfamiliar ingredients. Most consumers are familiar with jerk chicken, but beyond that, few
Caribbean flavors have hit the mainstream. The Caribbean is made up of many island nations, each with their own unique set of signature dishes, meaning that there’s no shortage of inspiration when it comes to Caribbean flavors.
When choosing which dishes and ingredients to innovate with, brands should look to those that possess flavor profiles that appeal to prolific trends. For example, pikliz, a Haitian pickled vegetable dish that features an irresistible spicy heat from scotch bonnet peppers, delivers on consumers’ desires for both complex heat and tart pickled flavors.
Curries have caught consumers’ attention, with classic curry dishes from Thailand, India, and Ethiopia gaining in popularity recently. Despite being a staple dish in Jamaican, Trinidadian, and other Caribbean cuisines, Caribbean curries have yet to take hold, presenting a major opportunity for brands to capitalize on consumers’ obsession with global curries. Frozen food and foodservice brands should consider expanding their offerings to include Caribbean curries, while snack, sauce, and protein brands should consider drawing inspiration from classic Caribbean curry dishes. Think Trinidadian chicken curry, Jamaican curried black-eyed peas, or Dominican oxtail curry.
Another option? Get creative with the flavors of Caribbean condiments. Global condiments have long been a fruitful source of international flavor innovation, and those from the Caribbean should be no exception. Cuban mojo criollo, for example, is a tangy, citrus-based marinade that is sure to please consumers who are looking to experience the bold flavors of an exotic cuisine.
Embrace Tropical Fruits
The Caribbean is known for its tropical destinations, pristine beaches, and fresh fruits. To deliver products that evoke paradise, brands should consider innovating with the fruits that are
hallmarks of Caribbean cuisine. Guava, in particular, has witnessed significant growth in recent years and is commonly featured in a variety of traditional Caribbean dishes, making it an ideal source of flavor inspiration. Coconut, mango, papaya, and pineapple are also trendy and versatile options for innovation. Think flavors like guava lemonade, pineapple chili, or mango BBQ.
Hungry for more? Subscribe to our e-newsletter to get our insights in your inbox.