As we reflect on the culinary landscape of 2021, it’s clear that the year was marked by a mix of innovation, revival, and a renewed focus on sustainability. From the rise of plant-based cuisine to the resurgence of traditional cooking methods, 2021 was a year that celebrated the diversity and richness of global food culture. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the best foods of 2021, highlighting the trends, ingredients, and dishes that defined the year.
The Rise of Plant-Based Cuisine
One of the most significant food trends of 2021 was the continued rise of plant-based cuisine. As consumers became increasingly aware of the environmental and health benefits of a plant-based diet, restaurants and food manufacturers responded by introducing a wide range of innovative and delicious plant-based products.
Plant-Based Meat Alternatives
One of the most notable developments in the plant-based space was the growth of plant-based meat alternatives. Brands like Beyond Meat and Impossible Foods continued to innovate and expand their product lines, introducing new products like plant-based sausages and chicken nuggets.
| Brand | Product | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Beyond Meat | Plant-Based Sausages | A range of plant-based sausages made with pea protein, rice protein, and other plant-based ingredients. |
| Impossible Foods | Plant-Based Chicken Nuggets | Tender and juicy chicken nuggets made with soy protein, potato protein, and other plant-based ingredients. |
Plant-Based Dairy Alternatives
In addition to plant-based meat alternatives, 2021 also saw a surge in plant-based dairy alternatives. Brands like Oatly and Almond Breeze introduced new products like oat milk and almond milk-based yogurts, which quickly gained popularity among consumers.
The Revival of Traditional Cooking Methods
While plant-based cuisine was certainly a major trend in 2021, the year also saw a renewed focus on traditional cooking methods. From the resurgence of sourdough bread to the growth of fermentation-based cuisine, 2021 was a year that celebrated the art of traditional cooking.
Sourdough Bread
One of the most notable trends in traditional cooking was the resurgence of sourdough bread. As consumers became increasingly interested in artisanal and homemade foods, sourdough bread experienced a major revival, with many bakeries and home cooks experimenting with new recipes and techniques.
Fermentation-Based Cuisine
In addition to sourdough bread, 2021 also saw a growth in fermentation-based cuisine. From kimchi to sauerkraut, fermented foods became increasingly popular among consumers, who were drawn to their bold flavors and potential health benefits.
Sustainable Seafood
As consumers became increasingly aware of the environmental impact of their food choices, sustainable seafood emerged as a major trend in 2021. From eco-friendly fishing practices to plant-based seafood alternatives, the year saw a range of innovations in the sustainable seafood space.
Eco-Friendly Fishing Practices
One of the most notable developments in sustainable seafood was the growth of eco-friendly fishing practices. Brands like Patagonia Provisions and Wild Planet Foods introduced new products that were certified as sustainably sourced, using practices like pole-and-line fishing and troll fishing.
Plant-Based Seafood Alternatives
In addition to eco-friendly fishing practices, 2021 also saw a surge in plant-based seafood alternatives. Brands like Good Catch and Finless Foods introduced new products like plant-based tuna and salmon, which quickly gained popularity among consumers.
Global Cuisine
Finally, 2021 was a year that celebrated the diversity and richness of global cuisine. From the growth of African cuisine to the resurgence of traditional Asian dishes, the year saw a range of innovations in the global food space.
African Cuisine
One of the most notable trends in global cuisine was the growth of African cuisine. As consumers became increasingly interested in international flavors, African dishes like jollof rice and tagine experienced a major surge in popularity.
Traditional Asian Dishes
In addition to African cuisine, 2021 also saw a resurgence of traditional Asian dishes. From Korean bibimbap to Japanese ramen, the year saw a range of innovations in the Asian food space, with many restaurants and food manufacturers introducing new products and recipes.
Conclusion
As we look back on the culinary landscape of 2021, it’s clear that the year was marked by a mix of innovation, revival, and a renewed focus on sustainability. From the rise of plant-based cuisine to the resurgence of traditional cooking methods, 2021 was a year that celebrated the diversity and richness of global food culture. Whether you’re a foodie, a chef, or simply a lover of good food, there’s no doubt that 2021 was a year to remember.
Best Foods of 2021: A Roundup
Here are some of the best foods of 2021, in no particular order:
- Plant-based meat alternatives like Beyond Meat and Impossible Foods
- Plant-based dairy alternatives like Oatly and Almond Breeze
- Sourdough bread and other artisanal breads
- Fermented foods like kimchi and sauerkraut
- Sustainable seafood options like eco-friendly fishing practices and plant-based seafood alternatives
- Global cuisine like African jollof rice and Korean bibimbap
We hope this article has given you a taste of the best foods of 2021. Whether you’re looking for inspiration for your next meal or simply want to stay up-to-date on the latest food trends, we’re confident that you’ll find something to love in this roundup.
What were some of the key culinary trends of 2021?
The year 2021 was marked by a resurgence of interest in traditional and cultural cuisine, as well as a growing focus on sustainability and plant-based eating. Many chefs and restaurants turned to heritage ingredients and cooking techniques to create innovative and authentic dishes. At the same time, the pandemic accelerated the demand for comfort food and takeout, leading to a proliferation of creative and convenient meal solutions.
Some of the key culinary trends of 2021 included the rise of Korean-Mexican fusion cuisine, the increasing popularity of plant-based meat alternatives, and a renewed focus on reducing food waste and promoting sustainable agriculture. These trends reflected a broader shift towards more mindful and environmentally conscious eating, as well as a desire for bold and exciting flavors.
What were some of the best foods of 2021?
Some of the standout foods of 2021 included creative takes on traditional dishes, such as Korean-style BBQ tacos and vegan “cheeseburgers” made with plant-based meat alternatives. Other popular items included artisanal breads and pastries, such as sourdough and croissants, as well as innovative desserts like matcha tiramisu and black sesame ice cream.
Many of the best foods of 2021 were also characterized by their use of high-quality, locally sourced ingredients and creative flavor combinations. For example, some chefs paired traditional ingredients like foie gras and truffles with unexpected elements like pickled vegetables and fermented soybeans. These bold and innovative flavor combinations helped to define the culinary landscape of 2021.
How did the pandemic impact the food industry in 2021?
The pandemic had a profound impact on the food industry in 2021, accelerating trends towards takeout and delivery and forcing many restaurants to adapt to new business models. Many chefs and restaurateurs turned to social media and online platforms to connect with customers and promote their businesses, while others focused on creating meal kits and other convenient solutions for home cooks.
Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, many restaurants and food businesses were able to thrive in 2021 by being innovative and adaptable. For example, some chefs began offering virtual cooking classes and workshops, while others partnered with food delivery services to reach a wider audience. These efforts helped to support the food industry during a difficult time and paved the way for future growth and innovation.
What role did sustainability play in the food industry in 2021?
Sustainability was a major focus of the food industry in 2021, with many chefs and restaurants prioritizing environmentally friendly practices and reducing their carbon footprint. This included efforts to reduce food waste, promote sustainable agriculture, and source ingredients from local and environmentally responsible suppliers.
Some of the key sustainability trends in the food industry in 2021 included the rise of plant-based eating, the increasing popularity of regenerative agriculture, and a growing focus on reducing single-use plastics and packaging waste. Many restaurants and food businesses also began to prioritize transparency and accountability in their sustainability efforts, recognizing the importance of environmental responsibility in the food industry.
How did cultural exchange and diversity shape the culinary landscape of 2021?
Cultural exchange and diversity played a major role in shaping the culinary landscape of 2021, with many chefs and restaurants drawing inspiration from international cuisines and traditions. This included a growing interest in African, Latin American, and Asian cuisine, as well as a renewed focus on preserving and promoting cultural heritage through food.
Some of the key cultural exchange trends in the food industry in 2021 included the rise of fusion cuisine, the increasing popularity of international ingredients and cooking techniques, and a growing recognition of the importance of cultural sensitivity and authenticity in food. Many chefs and restaurants also began to prioritize diversity and inclusion in their hiring practices and business models, recognizing the value of diverse perspectives and experiences in the culinary world.
What were some of the most innovative cooking techniques of 2021?
Some of the most innovative cooking techniques of 2021 included the use of plant-based ingredients and alternatives, the increasing popularity of fermentation and pickling, and a growing focus on precision temperature control and molecular gastronomy. Many chefs also began to experiment with new and unusual ingredients, such as insects and seaweed, and to incorporate traditional cooking techniques from around the world into their dishes.
Other innovative cooking techniques of 2021 included the use of sous vide machines and other high-tech kitchen tools, the increasing popularity of wood-fired and live-fire cooking, and a growing focus on preserving and promoting traditional cooking techniques and methods. Many chefs and restaurants also began to prioritize creativity and experimentation in their cooking, recognizing the importance of innovation and risk-taking in the culinary world.
What can we expect from the food industry in the years to come?
In the years to come, we can expect the food industry to continue prioritizing sustainability, cultural exchange, and innovation. Many chefs and restaurants will likely focus on reducing their environmental impact, promoting diversity and inclusion, and experimenting with new and unusual ingredients and cooking techniques.
Some of the key trends that may shape the food industry in the years to come include the rise of plant-based eating, the increasing popularity of regenerative agriculture, and a growing focus on reducing food waste and promoting sustainable agriculture. Many chefs and restaurants will also likely continue to prioritize creativity and experimentation in their cooking, recognizing the importance of innovation and risk-taking in the culinary world.