2023 is officially here, bringing with it a fresh feeling, new expectations, and evolving trends. While restaurant operators get ready to keep up with an ever-changing landscape, it is key to keep an eye on the flavors and preferences that will be taking up menu space in the new year.

Not surprisingly, sustainability and environmental stewardship will continue to be at the forefront of the food scene¹. As menus continue to make nods towards plant-based offerings, operators can lean into nutritious, yet satisfying plant-based options that are healthy and environmentally friendly. For instance, Idahoan® CREAMY Buttery Homestyle Mashed Potatoes are a great option to serve as a base for bowls. Other plant-based dish ideas include savory gnocchi made with Idahoan® CREAMY Classic Mashed Potatoes or tofu curry bowls made with Idahoan® RUSTIC Russets Mashed Potatoes.

Over time, cuisine everywhere has become increasingly globalized. Don’t expect fusion-oriented flavors or customers willing to try foreign foods to become a thing of the past in 2023. In fact, we’ll likely see the opposite— this coming year will be a time for global street foods to shine1. One of the easiest ways to incorporate global flavors is through potatoes, which are readily available in nearly every cuisine imaginable – from Thai to Swiss to Indian. For instance, use full fat coconut milk to refresh Fresh-Dried™ potato slices for curry dishes. Or implement speed-scratch mashed potatoes as the base of Indian dishes such as Aloo Bharta by mixing in ingredients like mustard oil, chopped onion, spicy chiles, fresh cilantro, salt, and pepper to create an easy side for meat and fish.

While globalization is becoming more popular in every direction, there is one type of food expected to rise above the rest: Lebanese. Fresh and varied in tastes, Lebanese food offers a variety that any operator can easily implement on their menu with staples that they already have. A simple yet satisfying dish is Batata Harra ‑ a spicy Lebanese potato dish! Fry or roast Idahoan® SLICES Unseasoned Potatoes with red pepper flakes for a simple, satisfying, and modern dish.

The new year is an exciting time, full of new ideas and expectations. And while trends change, some things stay the same. Idahoan® potatoes will always be a versatile staple ingredient that operators can apply creatively in their kitchens to keep up with customer demands, no matter what year it is.

1: Dataessential “2023 Global Restaurant Trend Forecast” (2022)

To learn more about how Idahoan® potatoes can help your operation adapt to 2023 menu trends, visit www.idahoanfoodservice.com.