Trend 1 - Modernized Comfort Food

Classic or homestyle dishes continue to reign supreme as they offer a sense of warmth and nostalgia that ties diners to cherished traditions. Over the years, the flavors, textures, and colors of these dishes have become a source of comfort for many.

However, an exciting evolution has commenced as chefs transform staples into “Modernized Comfort Food” using innovative ingredients, fresh twists, and diverse cooking techniques. These contemporary takes on comfort food promise delightful surprises while still honoring the rich flavors ingrained in Indonesia’s culinary culture.

Picture the indulgence of spicy mozzarella smashed chicken, a treat that combines the fiery kick of spices with the oozing goodness of the famed cheese.

Another option is mozzarella meatballs that offer a delightful surprise in every bite. Here, the soft, melting cheese seamlessly merges with the bouncy texture of the meatballs. But the innovation doesn't end there!

Mentai dumplings bring a fresh twist to another classic, with a creamy and enticing sauce taking the harmony of flavors up a notch.

Then there’s the seblak fung zhao, where humble chicken feet become a masterpiece that tantalizes the taste buds.

Make these “Modernized Comfort Food” creations the stars of your restaurant menu. Blending tradition and innovation will allow you to meet customers’ expectations for familiar tastes while offering a truly unique experience.

Trend 2 - The New Sharing

Sharing food has always had its charm. Who can say no to an experience that can intensify the warmth and camaraderie shared among family members and loved ones? Communal dining is a global phenomenon, exemplified by eating Korean BBQ or Spanish tapas. In Japan, there’s also the tradition of sitting on tatamis to partake in sushi rolls. Meanwhile, in Indonesia, the "nasi tumpeng" symbolizes unity, often taking center stage in celebrations and joyful moments.

Through the "The New Sharing" trend, you can encourage customers to share food, try diverse food options, and even consider splitting a meal's cost.

You can maximize the potential of this communal dining trend through platter creations. One option is a medley of fried dishes: golden egg banana fritters, nori fritters, and "cipokki," a tasty innovation combining cireng (sticky rice) and gochujang sauce. This selection will be a sure hit as it spotlights Indonesia's favored food textures: crispy and chewy.

Another innovative dish is the "rujak fondue," which features fresh fruits, vegetables, and even tofu or tempeh – all ready to be dipped into a thick rujak sauce served in a fondue set. 

Don’t overlook the "se'i sapi sambal ende," a dish that harmoniously blends "se'i sapi" and the enticing "sambal embe." This creation offers deep savory flavors, making it a perfect companion to warm conversations and shared laughter.

Beyond pleasing customers, “The New Sharing” trend will also spell success for your business. Undoubtedly, it can offer opportunities to increase total spending as your menu attracts larger groups and urges them to try a wide variety of food and beverage offerings.

Trend 3 - Feel-Good Food

As more people become increasingly conscious of their health, the ideal dining experience pivots into promoting a wholesome lifestyle. These days, consumers gravitate towards culinary options that skillfully marry nutrition with flavor. As such, the “Feel-Good Food” trend emerged as an innovative approach to offering delicious yet healthy dishes. It urges operators to craft menus that entice the taste buds and promote physical and mental well-being. Some possible strategies include leaning on alternative ingredients with lower saturated fat, going for leaner cuts of meat, and using innovative light sauces. This way, food businesses can prepare dishes that align with the consumer's desires.

UFS also suggests effective cooking techniques that can preserve the nutritional content of ingredients. You can rely on steaming, sautéing, and roasting to ensure lower-calorie preparations, retain flavors and textures, and guarantee a delicious experience with every bite. Additionally, consider cooking with these nutritious ingredients: beets, salmon, arrowroot flour, mocaf flour, pasta, chicken, seafood, tofu, potatoes, and rice. Now, give your menus a much-needed refresh with innovative creations like the mocaf mushroom pizza. This fresh take on a classic features a gluten-free cassava flour base, offering a unique texture and adding a new dimension to every bite. Another option is the beet and skipjack fried rice. This dish is a clever transformation of a daily staple enriched with nutritious and vibrant beets. Your customers will surely enjoy this guilt-free version of fried rice! And don't skip the lime arrowroot cake, a delightful yet healthy treat. Created with gluten-free flour, it's a smart choice for anyone steering clear of gluten without sacrificing the joy of indulgence.

With the “Feel-Good Food” trend, you can reshape the culinary world by offering healthier alternatives that prioritize your customer's well-being.