It Takes Two: Unconventional Flavor Pairings

Chocolate next to cheese wedge with plus sign between them
Tired of cheese sandwiches? Try dark chocolate and parmesan.

 

That’s why chefs and food manufacturers have been mixing things up. Surprising flavor combinations generate buzz for restaurants. Bringing two unexpected ingredients together is a simple way to create an LTO or update a menu item to excite diners. 

 

Chocolate And …. 

 

  • Avocado: When combined with chocolate, avocado’s flavor often disappears. However, it adds a creamy texture to milkshakes and mousses, particularly vegan variations. 

 

  • Beetroot: The subtle, earthy flavor of beets balances the richness of dark chocolate to create a luxurious combination.

 

  • Chicken: This pairing takes a cue from Latin American cuisine. Chicken mole brings together spices and dark chocolate for a rich dish. 

 

Peanut Butter And …. 

 

  • Burgers: Cook the patty in peanut butter for a rich, nutty flavor and juicy texture. 

 

  • Sriracha: Together, peanut butter and sriracha create a Thai-inspired sauce. Use it for a simple sandwich, toast, or chicken wings. 

 

  • Sweet Potato: Make sweet potato dishes even sweeter with peanut butter. Slather it inside a sliced baked sweet potato or add it to a casserole.

 

Bacon And …. 

 

  • Banana: Crispy, meaty bacon plus soft, sweet banana equals breakfast deliciousness. Caramelize the banana for an even stronger contrast. 

 

  • Jelly: What if bacon was sugary and spreadable? Create bacon jelly for a flavorful addition to avocado toast or a spin on peanut butter and jelly sandwiches.

 

  • Cocktails/Mocktails: A slice of bacon or candied bacon makes for an unexpected garnish to a Bloody Mary, Old Fashioned, or new beverage creation. Coat the inside of the glass with maple syrup for a decadent savory and sweet refreshment.

 

Cheese And …. 

 

  • Apple Pie: Take the cheese and apple lunch pairing to the next level. Bake cheddar into pie crusts to make this classic dessert more decadent. 

 

  • Dates: The salty intensity of blue cheese is the perfect match for the sweet intensity of dates. Be sure to include both on charcuterie boards. 

 

  • Dark Chocolate: Chocolate is back, this time for an unexpected grilled cheese. Dark chocolate and parmesan are both nutty and a bit bitter, making this a tastier combo than most diners would expect. 

Your Sourcing Solution 

 

Want another great combination? How about you and Innovations? 

 

Our trade show is welcoming Dot Foods national account operators, customers, and suppliers this April in St. Louis. Operators enjoy a curated line-up of seminars and exclusive opportunities to interact one-on-one with suppliers. They can also source anything they say on the trade show floor from one place—Dot. Registration for Innovations 2022 opens soon.

Get ready to innovate—see what you can expect at Innovations 2022.