If you’re at all like me, the departure of summer’s warmth already sends a shiver. So, wrap me in a sweater and place a warm, fragrant bowl of tastiness in front of my face, because like most fall diners — I crave coziness!
What do cozy, fall comfort foods look like? I’m a big fan of soups, stews, and chilis, so warm, aromatic broths — packed with seasoned meats, beans, veggies, and spices — will go a long way towards heating up my taste buds.
And feel free to try some menu experimentation. According to research, 65% of consumers associate the fall season with special flavors or LTOs. In short, bold is beautiful for sales. Let’s take a look at how adding bold, international flavors, with a touch of heat-and-serve, can help your guests get cozy.
Hispanic Flavors are Fire
When I’m thinking about a spicy chili or a hearty soup, the idea of incorporating Hispanic-inspired ingredients is tantalizing. A rich chicken stock seasoned with cumin, chili powder, and garlic — chock full of carrots, onions, peppers, and pinto beans — AND starring BURKE® Chicken Sausage with Tinga-Style Seasonings, topped by a dollop of cooling sour cream and diced avocado? Bring on the comfort!
And whether you are celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month, showcasing a family recipe, or just adding a bowl of cozy to your menu, the fact is, consumers are turning more and more to international flavors. Nearly 30% of diners are eating more unique types of food from around the world than they were just a few years ago.
Let’s Cook!
It can be challenging to add new items to menus. Maybe bringing in more inventory doesn’t seem to fit the budget or you are short on kitchen staff to whip up these cozier favorites. Fully cooked and ready-to-serve Mexican-inspired ingredients from brands like Burke Corporation can really ramp up the comfort at your tables, while limiting operational stress.
With hints of smoke, sweet, and spice, BURKE® Beef Meatballs with Smoky Chipotle Seasonings can add exciting flavors to comfort dishes. Consider how Pork & Beef Meatballs with Albondigas-Style Seasonings can turn up the heat in a Mexican Meatball Soup — highlighting ground red pepper, onion, and garlic. Or just imagine the ways in which Chorizo Sausage Crumbles or zesty Mexican Style Beef Crumbles could elevate a Mexican Lasagna plate, healthy, comforting grain bowls, or a carryout chili that’s the MVP of the football tailgate.
The point is that as comfort foods, cultural classics, and fiery flavors continue to drive the market with younger generations, there are areas where all three can combine for tasty and profitable LTOs. Close to 60% of diners are already interested in trying restaurant specials this fall. So, dare to be bold, cozy, and scrumptious over the next few months with snug specials that will entice guests to post up and stay awhile in the warmth of your establishment.
**Content provided in collaboration with BURKE®
