Marta Bueno Arcos discusses viral food trends such as açai bowls and Dubai chocolate, and shares some trendy, but tried and true complimentary pairings, including roasted grapes and Brie crostini.
Nowadays with social media platforms such as Instagram and TikTok bursting with trendy recipes, including throwback favorites like vodka pasta (thanks Gigi Hadid), we can learn about recipes from around the world within seconds. But the question is, which ones are actually worth trying?
By now, everyone knows about Dubai chocolate. It took the internet by storm, starting as a luxury, before it developed into a mass produced commodity by major brands. Its ingredients can be quite expensive, as it includes pricey fillings: pistachio cream, tahini and crunchy shards of knafeh pastry. Its rise in popularity has even caused an international pistachio shortage! But in my opinion, it’s not worth the hype, especially if you try to make it at home. Instead, you can savour Irish luxury chocolates like Butlers Chocolates from North County Dublin, or Grá Chocolates from Galway which are just as delicious and don’t cut as deep into your pockets.
If you want to explore a trendy meal but be healthy, açaí bowls were made just for you! This tropical food originates from Brazil and can be very beneficial, providing antioxidants, fiber, and healthy fats. Dublin is spoiled for choice with açai bowls on almost every street. Choose between an açaí base, add some granola, then top it off with your faves: berries (banana, raspberry, blueberry or strawberry), nuts and seeds (almond flakes, chia seeds or coconut) and finish with something sweet (nutella, honey, peanut butter or chocolate chips).
Speaking of fruit, fruit and cheese is a popular pairing lately, and for good reason! For example, pairing the famous creamy burrata with strawberries and balsamic vinegar, or in a salad with grilled peach makes for a delicious combination. Another popular match are grapes with cheese, and the rule of thumb is as follows: green grapes are more acidic, so pair them with creamy cheeses like brie; red grapes are sweeter, so complement them with aged and sharper cheeses like cheddar or gouda.
Finally, a recommendation of my own. As snack plates and bite-sized foods are all the rage right now, here is an amazing and easy appetizer: roasted grapes and brie crostini! In a preheated oven, toss some grapes with olive oil to roast so they soften and slightly caramelize. At the same time, toast a baguette until golden. Then, spread some brie on the toast, allow it to melt, add the grapes with a pinch of salt, and you’re golden!