Flavor Trends, Strategies and Solutions for Menu Development

By Rob Corliss
January 9, 2020

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Look beyond clover honey and showcase one of the more than 300 varietals of honey, as each has its unique flavor characteristics, aroma, color and texture. In the hands of a skilled chef, the pairing of a specific honey varietal with complementary ingredients becomes something special. It also lends a poetic sense of place. Consider the unique flavor notes of varietals like orange blossom, blueberry, sourwood, buckwheat or wildflower honey.

Another great tactic for storytelling is to pair a honey varietal with pollinator ingredients. Bees are vital to pollinating a vast array of fruits, vegetables and nuts. Combining honey and a pollinator ingredient on your menu enables your operation to craft messaging around the ancillary sustainability benefits of bee health, pure honey and honey pollinator ingredients. A promotion would be a winning theme during National Honey Month in September.

About The Author

Rob Corliss

Rob Corliss is a three-time James Beard House guest chef with more than 30 years of experience that includes running world-class hotels, launching new concepts, working in top marketing agencies and owning the culinary consultancy ATE (All Things Epicurean) since 2009. Based in Nixa, Mo., ATE has an energizing passion focused on flavor innovation and is dedicated to connecting people to their food, environment and wellness. Rob is also a regular contributor to Flavor & The Menu.