Social media possesses a remarkable ability to sway our culinary preferences and spark our curiosity about unconventional recipes and ingredients. TikTok, in particular, holds undeniable power in shaping the way we approach food trends, with creators continuously introducing fresh, inventive, and entertaining food concepts to engage their followers. In the year 2023, TikTok witnessed the emergence of several standout food trends, some of which left a lasting impression, while others left us puzzled.
Let’s delve into the captivating TikTok food trends that made a splash in 2023, along with a few that failed to impress.
The Triumphs
Canned Fish
The 2023 culinary scene witnessed the resurgence of canned fish, a concept that has been around for decades but found a new appreciation on American menus and TikTok alike. Creators on the platform delighted in showcasing the myriad of ways canned fish can be utilized in recipes, transforming this humble ingredient and making it more approachable for home cooks. The outcome? A newfound admiration for its savory, briny, and rich flavour profile that is likely to endure for years to come.
Rediscovery of Cottage Cheese
In a surprising twist, cottage cheese experienced a renaissance on TikTok in 2023. Shedding its image as a mere diet food, cottage cheese proved to be an adaptable ingredient featured in recipes ranging from ice cream to dips. Its high protein content and creamy consistency made it a favorite among content creators and home cooks, adding a nutritious and flavorful essence to a variety of dishes.
The ‘Thomas Keller Method’ for Zucchini
The culinary community was taken aback by the TikTok surge of a cooking technique popularized by renowned chef Thomas Keller. His “zucchini method” gained widespread acclaim, with many users embracing this simple yet delectable preparation. This zucchini recipe is poised to stand the test of time, owing to its versatility and potential for adaptation with diverse flavors and cultural influences.
Hash Brown Toast
The ingenious concept of lightly frying a hash brown patty and using it as a foundation for toast toppings captured the imagination of TikTok users in 2023. The crisp texture and its ability to complement a wide array of flavors propelled hash brown toast to stardom, showcasing its versatility as a canvas for both sweet and savory toppings.
Sunday Roast
The beloved Sunday roast, a cherished tradition in British cuisine, found new enthusiasts on TikTok in 2023. Its allure lies in its comforting, homely nature, cementing it as a meal likely to endure and potentially be embraced in households and eateries beyond the UK.
The Missteps
‘Extreme Spicy Food’ Challenge
While challenge videos have always been a hit on TikTok, consuming excessively spicy dishes raised concerns regarding unhealthy eating habits and a lack of appreciation for food. Consequently, this trend is expected to lose its appeal due to health considerations and shifting consumer preferences.
‘Fruit Roll-Up’ Ice Cream
As delightful as it may appear, the notion of using a Fruit Roll-Up as a wrap for ice cream sparked divided opinions among food professionals and influencers. Although visually appealing, its practical appeal may not stand the test of time.
Frozen Yogurt Bark
Despite its visual appeal and ease of preparation, the frozen yogurt bark trend fell short of expectations. Its gritty texture and underwhelming taste left many users feeling let down.
Freezer Pancake Bites
Despite the convenience of preparing pancake batter in advance, the idea of freezing it in cubes didn’t seem sustainable for many. The additional cooking time required for the frozen pancake bites outweighed the time saved in preparing the batter in advance.
The Provocative
‘Girl Dinner’
The rebranding of a snack-based meal as “girl dinner” sparked controversy in 2023. While some embraced the trend for its relatability and accessibility, others questioned the need to assign gender to snack platters and voiced concerns about promoting unhealthy eating habits.
In conclusion, TikTok’s impact on food trends is indisputable, yielding both successes and failures in 2023. As we anticipate new culinary trends, it’s essential to consider the influence they wield over our food choices and behaviors. After all, the thrill of discovering and experimenting with new recipes is what makes the culinary world so exhilarating.
