8 flavors you’ll use more in 2015

Middle Eastern Mezze

These dips and spreads, packed with zesty herbs and seasonings, offer an approachable introduction to a vibrant global cuisine.

Example: Labneh is a thick, tangy Middle Eastern yogurt, seasoned with crushed red pepper, black pepper and garlic, then topped with some herbs and a drizzle of olive oil. It works as a dip for bread and veggies. Photo: McCormick

Global Blends On the Move

Japanese 7 Spice (Shichimi Togarashi) offers a new kind of spicy heat, while Shawarma Spice Blend lends warm, spiced flavor to grilled meats and more.

Example: Shichimi Togarash is a seasoning blend that includes chilies, sesame, orange peel, nori and more. It is used to flavor soups, noodle dishes, grilled meats and seafood. Photo: McCormick

Umami Vegetables

Naturally umami-rich vegetables like mushrooms, tomatoes, sweet potatoes and nori add fresh flavor without the calories.

Example: Fire-roasted tomatoes can be served over pasta or used as a topping for pizza or bruschetta. They can also be included in an antipasto platter. Photo: McCormick

Flavor Worth the Wait

Slow-cooked meals offer rich flavors, and plenty of slow-cooking recipes from around the world meld aromatic spices and comforting ingredients.

Example: Osso Buco is a traditional Italian dish of braised veal shanks and chopped carrots, onion and celery. Sprinkle with gremolata, a mixture of parsley, lemon peel and garlic, to add a citrus note. Photo: McCormick

Cookies Reimagined

Classic spiced cookie flavors take new form in imaginative desserts that redefine “milk and cookies.”

Example: The Peanut Butter Snickerdoodle Tarts with Cinnamon Peanut Crust start with a cinnamon accented peanut crust as the base for a peanut butter mousse flavored with the tastes of a snickerdoodle cookie. A chocolate milk ganache is added as a nod to the classic pairing of milk and cookies. Photo: McCormick

Smoked Spices

Smoking spices and herbs deepens their flavor and aroma, adding richness to meals and drinks.

Example: Homemade smoked cinnamon bitters add a warm, spicy flavor to peach schnapps, lemon and bourbon in a Southern-inspired cocktail. Photo: McCormick

Sour + Salt

Combining coarse salt with surprising sours like pickled ginger, sour cherry, dried mango and lemon zest results in a finishing flavor that lends brightness and texture to dishes.

Example: Mango Curry Lime Sea Salt is a mixture of coarse sea salt, curry powder, dried mango, red pepper and lime peel that adds brightness and texture to vegetables, chicken, shrimp, rice and more. Photo: McCormick

Liquid Revolution

Fresh purees and juices blend with spices and herbs to intensify sauces, pasta, dressings and more—providing a fun way to add an extra serving of fruits and veggies.

Example: Kale, avocado and pistachios are pureed with chicken stock, garlic and Italian Seasoning for a pasta sauce that tops a nutritional and flavorful dish. Photo: McCormick