Flavor Trends, Strategies and Solutions for Menu Development

 

 

 

By Katie Ayoub
June 8, 2022

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Photo Credit:Steven Lee

David Lee

Executive Chef David Lee’s wholly vegan menu at the aptly named Planta is one of the most joyful and creative expressions of today’s plant-based movement. For example, his Red Pepper Carpaccio layers in compelling flavor profiles—fennel and arugula salad, truffle-almond Parmesan, olives and pepperoncini—making the dish nothing short of craveable.

Lee’s approach to plant-based seafood follows a similar game plan, making this new menu category inviting and familiar. The “sushi” menu is home to one of Planta’s most popular dishes, the Crispy Rice with avocado and spicy “ahi” watermelon. “The watermelon is dehydrated in the oven, but not to full dehydration. It creates the perfect tuna-like texture and still offers the sweet taste found in tuna,” says Lee. He tops crispy rice with smashed avocado (avocado, cilantro, salt, lime and jalapeño) and layers on the spicy “ahi” mixed with scallions and spicy mayo.

As part of Planta’s commitment to a greener future, the entire watermelon is put to use. “We use it for various items on our menu, leaving no waste behind,” he says. “The juice is found in our cocktails and the rind is used as a garnish and for other items.”

 

About The Author

Katie Ayoub

Katie Ayoub serves as managing editor of Flavor & The Menu and content strategist for the Flavor Experience, an annual conference geared toward chain operators. She is president of Katie Ayoub & Associates, serving up menu trends expertise, content creation and food & beverage consultancy. Based in Chicago, Katie has been working in foodservice publishing for more than 20 years and part of the Flavor team since 2006. [email protected]