Indian Cuisine

The Godrej Foods Trends Report 2023 — India — An Atlas of Flavours launched end of last month in Mumbai. This is the sixth edition of the report and saw over 350 experts — chefs, mixologists, home chefs, nutritionists, restaurateurs, sommeliers, food producers, food bloggers and more come together to share their valued insights on topics, trends and forecasts.

“These are exciting times for the food industry! It was evident that the pandemic had resulted in changes in consumption patterns and consumer behaviours across the entire spectrum of the food industry. I am happy to say that the Godrej Food Trends Report is uniquely positioned to bring the nuances of this evolving foodscape to the forefront for the benefit of the F&B industry. I have personally always enjoyed watching food trends in our country, especially the year-specific trends predicted by our esteemed panellists. It gives me immense joy to see many of them coming to life subsequently. This year, I am personally excited to see growing international interest and recognition given to India for its rich culinary diversity, along with a growing demand for culinary knowledge and skills across all segments,” said Tanya Dubash, executive director and chief brand officer, Godrej Industries and Associate Companies, on this year’s report that primarily forecasts the growing global interest towards India’s culinary plurality and prodigious ingredient diversity.

Some of the key trends mentioned in the 2023 report are a rise of locally produced artisanal products, exploration of cuisines, clean and hygienically packed meats and seafood, gourmet premium ghee and more.

“The Godrej Food Trends Report 2023 is the sixth edition of what we launched in 2018. The vision was to spark conversations around contemporary food trends and provide a platform for food industry specialists to cross-pollinate ideas and set trends. When I look back at its evolution and the expansive range of trends-related conversations the report has driven, I feel grateful to all who have contributed to it and made it possible, year after year. This year, India is in focus for its rich culinary heritage and more, and I am sure like me, you will be wonderstruck at the staggering variety of food and culinary cultures India is home to,” added Sujit Patil, vice president, and head, corporate brand and communication, Godrej Industries and Associate Companies.

Aye accompaniments: Food-enriching accompaniments like sauces, dips and condiments packed with flavours will dominate stores, kitchens and plates! It is expected that these will also be carried home from travels to add global nuances to meals at home.

Individual ‘creator brand-driven’ experiences will grow: We witnessed the rise of F&B practitioners and creators throughout the pandemic and, in 2023, these communities of fans will seek interactive experiences that revolve around them. The forecast predicts 2023 as the best time for creators to build, grow their brand through content and experiences.

Quick pan-to-plate food: Pan-ready high-flavoured snacks will be sought after. Depending on the dietary and demographic requirements, snacks will be reinvented. People will gravitate more towards regional-flavoured frozen food like kebabs, momos and more.

Mad over mushrooms: Good news for mushroom lovers as exotic but home-grown fresh mushrooms like Portobello, Oyster, Enoki and Lions Mane will take centre stage and will be used in exotic dishes and as clean plant-protein options for vegan, vegetarian as well as non-vegetarians. The textures and tastes are expected to entice diners.

Cool collabs: This year foodies are expected to explore and indulge in an array of exciting concepts through innovative collaborations within and outside the industry. New ideas, cooking methods, food techniques and concepts will be offered as a part of an experience to foodies through these innovative cool pop-ups.

Down memory lane: The pandemic might be behind us but the trend of finding comfort in age-old food, brands and flavours will continue across generations. Retro as a theme will score big in house parties decor and menu, restaurant decor, merchandise and more.

Say desi cheese! India’s dairy-rich market has been a great market for cheese but the growth of cheese makers in the country will see a sharp rise. Thus, locally made Indian cheeses like churpi, Bandel, topli paneer will gain popularity. The demand for and the supply of these artisanal Indian cheese will be in sync and steal the spotlight.

Yoghurt and whey-based beverages: We all know the benefits of yoghurt in our diet and this year one is expected to see a demand/growth in yoghurt and whey-based beverages that are not only rich in protein, great for lactose intolerant consumers but also good for the gut. According to Godrej’s survey, these “options are expected to multiply across dining out and in-home segment and also attract the teetotaling heath-conscious consumer”.

Demand for culinary knowledge and skill: The food industry is booming across segments, be it travel, opening of restaurants, dining in or out, and food studies. Hobbyists and professionals alike will delve deep into gaining knowledge and skills in specialised areas to prepare themselves for future projects

Heathy desserts: Portion controlled, heathy ingredients like natural sweetners, natural food colours, millets will be preferred by mindful eaters. Instead of digging into bowls of desserts, foodies are expected to gravitate towards small-plated/ portioned desserts that would also cross over into snacking. Diet Indian mithais, artisanal low sugar ice-creams will be a hit.

Traditional local oils will be hot: Move over international oils, say hello to traditional fats that play a vital role in local cuisine. “In 2023, the average Indian home will stock up on a greater variety of regional fats for daily use, wilfully differentiating by application and cuisine,” reads the report. Since 2020, as health and immunity have taken a priority seat in our lifestyle, what we eat at home especially, it is expected that home-made or traditional fat like gourmet premium ghee will reign our home kitchens.