The McCormick Flavor Forecast for 2015

Here on day four of our 12 Lists of Christmas we present an annual favorite: the McCormick Flavor Forecast.

Now in its 15th year, the list from the worldwide spice giant tries to identify the coming trends, insights and ingredients driving the future of flavor. Created by a global team of McCormick experts — including chefs, culinary professionals, trend trackers and food technologists — the Flavor Forecast "inspires culinary exploration and innovation around the world."

This year, McCormick has come up with "eight flavor trends to watch. The full story is at www.mccormick.com/Flavor-Forecast-2015.

1. Global Blends On the Move
   Shawarma Spice Blend – a Middle Eastern street food favorite made with cumin, cinnamon, black pepper and more. Also Japanese 7 Spice (Shichimi Togarashi) – a pungent combination of chilies, sesame, orange zest, nori and more.
2. Liquid Revolution
   Fresh purees and juices blend with bold spices and herbs to intensify sauces, pasta, dressings and more -- providing a fun, delicious way to enjoy an extra serving of fruits and veggies.
3. Middle Eastern Mezze
   These distinctive dips and spreads, packed with zesty herbs and seasonings, offer an approachable and delicious introduction to a vibrant global cuisine.
4. Sour + Salt
   Combining coarse salt with surprising sours like pickled ginger, sour cherry, dried mango and lemon zest results in a lively finishing flavor that lends brightness and texture to dishes.
5. Smoked Spices
   Smoking spices and herbs deepens their flavor and aroma, adding richness to meals and drinks.
6. Cookies Reimagined
   Classic spiced cookie flavors take new form in decadent, imaginative desserts that redefine “milk and cookies.”
7. Flavor Worth the Wait
   Lift the lid to discover the rich flavors from recipes around the world that meld aromatic spices and comforting ingredients into mouthwatering slow-cooked meals.
8. Umami Veggies
   For a fresh way to savor the tempting “fifth taste,” look no further than naturally umami-rich veggies like mushrooms, tomatoes, sweet potatoes and nori.