The humble tinned fish emerged as an unexpected star in the culinary world. No longer just a pantry staple, it became a centerpiece for creative and gourmet dishes. TikTok users showcased everything from simple, elegant crackers topped with sardines and herbs to elaborate tinned fish charcuterie boards. This trend highlighted a shift towards sustainable and convenient eating.
Cottage cheese made a triumphant return, shedding its bland, diet-food image. TikTokers reinvented it in smoothie bowls, savory dips, and even as a creamy addition to pancakes. Its high protein content and versatility made it a hit among health-conscious foodies.
The classic Sunday roast got a modern makeover. While maintaining its comforting essence, TikTok chefs added unique twists like exotic spice rubs and unconventional side dishes. This trend reflected a yearning for comfort and tradition in uncertain times.
'Girl dinner' became a phenomenon, representing a carefree approach to dining. It's all about assembling an array of snacks - think cheese, fruits, chocolates, and whatever else is on hand - into a meal. This trend celebrated simplicity and spontaneity in eating.
Inspired by the 'Hot Girl Summer' meme, 'Tomato Girl Summer' became a symbol of healthy, vibrant living. TikTok was flooded with recipes featuring fresh, juicy tomatoes in salads, sandwiches, and drinks. It was a celebration of seasonal produce and simple, fresh flavors.
Coinciding with the hype around the Barbie movie, Barbie-themed foods took over TikTok. From pink smoothies and cupcakes to Barbie-inspired cocktails, this trend was all about fun, playful, and often pink food creations.
Upside-down puff pastry tarts became a visual and culinary delight. TikTokers flipped the script on traditional tarts, creating beautiful, Instagram-worthy dishes that were as delicious as they were photogenic. This trend showcased the creativity and artistry in modern cooking.
The French Yogurt Cake, or Gâteau au Yaourt, became a sensation for its simplicity and elegance. This easy-to-make cake, often involving using the yogurt container for measuring ingredients, became a hit for its rustic charm and deliciousness. It's a trend that celebrates the joy of uncomplicated baking, bringing a touch of French culinary chic to kitchens worldwide.
Diet Coke "recipes" emerged as a quirky trend, where TikTokers used the soda in unconventional ways. From using it as a marinade for meats to mixing it into cake batters, this trend showed the versatility of this popular beverage in cooking, often with surprisingly tasty results.
WaterTok took hydration to a whole new level. This trend involved creating unique, often sugar-free flavored water concoctions. Think cucumber-mint or berry-lime infusions, and even more adventurous combinations like “Mountain Dew-flavored water” made with zero-sugar additives. It's a trend that made staying hydrated fun and flavorful.
Hwachae, a traditional Korean refreshment made with fruits and edible flowers in cold water or milk, gained international fame. These visually stunning and refreshing bowls became a summer favorite, showcasing the beauty of Korean cuisine and the appeal of light, fruity treats
Pastina, the tiny star-shaped pasta, became a comfort food sensation. This humble Italian staple was celebrated for its versatility and nostalgia factor. TikTokers shared recipes ranging from simple buttery bowls to hearty, veggie-packed soups, reminding us of the comfort of simple, home-cooked meals.
Brazilian Lemonade, a refreshing twist on traditional lemonade made with limes and condensed milk, took the internet by storm. This creamy, tangy beverage was a hit for its unique flavor and ease of preparation, perfect for sipping on sunny days or as a novel addition to summer gatherings.
Homemade ice cream became a creative outlet for many. With or without an ice cream maker, people churned out flavors ranging from classic vanilla and rich chocolate to inventive combinations like lavender-honey and spicy mango. This trend showed the joy of making and sharing delightful frozen treats.
The chopped sandwich, a method of finely chopping and mixing all the sandwich ingredients before stuffing them into bread, gained popularity for its even distribution of flavors in every bite. This trend was a hit for its playful take on the traditional sandwich, making lunchtime both fun and delicious.
Each of these trends reflects a broader narrative about how we engage with food in 2023. They show a blend of nostalgia, health consciousness, sustainability, and a desire for culinary creativity and experimentation. These trends are not just about what we eat but how we relate to food as an expression of culture, health, and personal identity.