The last decade has been a whirlwind of culinary experimentation and innovation, with food trends popping up like mushrooms after the rain. From the health-conscious to the downright decadent, these trends have shaped how we cook, eat, and think about food.
However, as with all things trendy, not every culinary craze has stood the test of time. Let’s stroll down memory lane and explore 15 cooking trends of the last decade that have gone by the wayside.
1. Specialty Salts
Once the darlings of gourmet kitchens and health food stores, specialty salts like Himalayan pink and Celtic salts promised more than just seasoning. Touted for their mineral content and health benefits, these colorful crystals have declined as the focus shifts to sustainable and locally sourced seasonings.
2. Instant Pot Cooking
The Instant Pot changed the game for home cooks seeking convenience without sacrificing quality. This multifunctional gadget could do everything: slow cook, pressure cook, sauté, and more. While still popular by some, the feverish trend has cooled as new gadgets enter the market.
3. Cloud Bread
Cloud bread was a low-carb dream come true: light, fluffy, and too cute to eat. This gluten-free alternative to bread, made from eggs, cream cheese, and baking powder, floated through social media feeds before quietly dissipating.
4. Activated Charcoal
Activated charcoal took the food world by storm with its detoxifying promises and dramatic black hue. It found its way into ice creams, lattes, and detox drinks before concerns over its health implications and impact on medication absorption dimmed its appeal.
5. Spiral Veggies
Spiralized vegetables offered a fun and healthy alternative to pasta, turning zucchinis into “zoodles” and carrots into curly fries. While still used by health enthusiasts, the spiralizing frenzy has certainly wound down from its peak popularity.
6. Traditional Cooking Shows
The era of sitting down to watch a half-hour cooking show for a single recipe has passed, replaced by quick, snappy video tutorials on social media platforms. Traditional cooking shows have had to evolve or risk becoming relics of a bygone era.
7. Homemade Sourdough
Baking sourdough bread from scratch became a symbol of culinary prowess during the early days of the pandemic. As life returns to normal, the sourdough craze has started to deflate, though many still cherish the skills and starters they developed.
8. Bacon Wrapped Everything
Bacon had its moment as the ultimate ingredient, wrapping everything from steaks to dates. While delicious, the trend towards healthier, more plant-based diets has seen bacon take a backseat.
9. Paninis
The panini press was once a countertop staple, transforming ordinary sandwiches into crispy, melty delights. As kitchen gadget trends evolve, paninis have become less of a phenomenon, making way for other international sandwiches to shine.
10. Coconut Oil
Hailed as a superfood, coconut oil was everywhere, recommended for everything from frying to hair conditioning. Over time, debates over its health benefits and sustainability have cooled the craze.
11. Turmeric
Turmeric, with its anti-inflammatory properties, colored everything from lattes to rice golden. While still appreciated for its health benefits, the trend of adding turmeric to everything has simmered down.
12. Gourmet Burgers
The burger went gourmet, with high-end ingredients like truffle oil, foie gras, and artisanal cheeses. As the novelty wears off, there’s a return to classic, simpler burgers focusing on quality ingredients.
13. Avocado on Everything
Avocado toast became more than a breakfast staple; it was a cultural icon. While avocados remain popular, the obsession with putting avocados on everything has mellowed.
14. Sous Vide
Sous vide cooking, once the realm of professional chefs, became accessible to home cooks, promising perfectly cooked meats every time. While still used by culinary enthusiasts, its novelty as a must-try cooking method has faded.
15. Shooter Sandwiches
Packed with layers of meat, cheese, and veggies, the shooter sandwich was a viral sensation for its hearty ingredients and novel preparation. The shooter sandwich craze has quieted as food trends move towards lighter, plant-based options.
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From bringing luck to new homeowners to ensuring marital bliss, here are 15 cultural cooking superstitions that you might find fascinating:
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Here’s a rundown of 15 cooking tips that spark debate among cooks and food enthusiasts alike.
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There are many practical ways to save money that won’t make you feel like you must sacrifice all of life’s small pleasures. Implementing even a few of the tips below will help you set aside some cash for a rainy day, a trip, or that big purchase you’ve been eyeing.
You’ll feel like you’ve picked up a second job without having to spend the time and effort on a side hustle. Whether you’re looking to pay off debt or grow your bank account, these tricks are sure to put extra money in your pocket.