sengWare’s Top Five Food Trends for 2011

As we start another decade, people are still wondering “What is going on in the world?  And how do I fit into all this chaos and uncertainty?” I ask, “What happened to the last ten years?  How have things changed?  Or not?”  From my perspective, I believe that the world is a better place compared to 10 years ago.  People are more mindful and respectful of people and aware of the environment. And more people are taking action to make changes that impact them directly or indirectly - financially, socially and spiritually. But we all still wonder what the future holds.

With that in mind, here’s what I see as the food trends for the beginning of this new decade.

1. Social Cooking:  I have been hosting and attending social cooking events with friends, neighbors and family for quite a few years. The trend is catching on, and I predict that it will keep growing.  As more people stay home and invest time in their home and families, they will start to be more aware of their neighborhoods and have more get-togethers with their neighbors. Try reaching out and organizing an event with your neighbors – you’ll be surprised how receptive they are to the idea. Just remember to keep it participatory, enjoyable and relaxing. Social cooking is also a great way to save money and learn new recipes! Check our previous posts on social cooking for tips on how to host these fun, casual events.
2. Bright Colors: There’s no question that color will continue to drive the home décor trend for the upcoming years. Bright colors like our Pimento and Tangerina can put some punch in your home dining experience. Why? Well first of all I love these colors, but I also know that people are still looking for simple luxuries that can bring a touch of staycation to their homes. Bright colors remind us of carefree childhood memories, wild and crazy holidays of the past, warm sunny beaches and fantasy destinations that we want to be in right now. So let your worry-free side take you on a shopping trip and find some bright colors to complement the whites and neutrals you have at home.
3. Cooking with Kids: As both obesity and food safety awareness reach new heights, cash- and time-starved parents are learning new ways to put the best ingredients on the dining table instead of microwave dinners, canned foods and frozen entrees. To get the whole family more involved, sit down as a family and teach your children how to cook. Studies have shown that children in families that regularly dine together are more likely to stay out of trouble in their teen years. Kids that participate in preparing their own food often make healthier food choices. Try involving your kids in our social cooking techniques. You’ll see how quickly they learn the value of nutrition and the joy of a home cooked meal. You’ll also be able to spend quality time with your kids, and get some much-needed help in the kitchen!
4. Home Vegetable Gardens: I noticed this trend in Seattle a few years ago and started growing vegetables in my own garden. Now vegetable gardens are everywhere, from Miami to Los Angeles. And we’re not just talking AeroGardens here – even with space constraints, you can get some good planting in. Beyond the environmental benefits, planting your own vegetables can be beneficial to you personally. Just imagine avoiding the after-work crowds at your grocery stores, changing out of your work clothes, getting a pair of scissors and vegetable basket, going to yard and cutting the fresh, crisp, sweet produce. One of my biggest joys is seeing the amazing colors of fresh, home-grown produce, smelling the freshness, and knowing that I can pick anything and feel safe about eating it right then and there.
5. Back to Basics and Nature: Since people are spending more time at home these days, they are doing more to create an enjoyable home environment. They’re looking for functional designs that still have fun, playful elements. Instead of a set of dishes for every holiday, families are looking for one set that can do everything. People are also gravitating toward safer, more sustainable products with natural elements like clay, bamboo, wood and stone. Natural foods like goji berries, agave nectar and raw chocolate are becoming more popular as well. As people learn more about natural ingredients, more will discover and introduce raw or vegetarian meals to their regular plan. I’m not talking about everyone going vegan, but I can see people serving a healthy, simple raw meal once a week using fresh ingredients from their yard or the local farmers market.

Despite the chaos, conflict and politics, I do believe we are living in a better world today.  We just have to search for our better part of the world, be it simply enjoying a cup of tea in our own backyards or traveling abroad. It’s all yours for the taking.