The sun is out. Still. Wow. What a Summer we’ve had in the UK. Long may it continue – absolutely no complaints from Quattro HQ. Dare we say that we fancy a break from the BBQ? Can it really be true that we’re happy to tidy away the coal and the tongs into the shed this weekend? OK, we’ve said it.
We’re a bit bored of a barbie and fancy eating out for a change – a truly improbable sentiment for us sun-deprived Brits but it’s reached that point after 2 sunny months. It’s not a permanent state of affairs, we’ll be back on the outdoor grill before the neighbours can knock on the door, but this weekend we’re not marinating or grilling. We’re heading into town for some colourful, eclectic and flavoursome summer street food.
Our love of international street food is growing stronger. As travel rates rise, this worldliness is reflected in consumers’ culinary tastes. Looking to recreate their holiday experiences, and inspired by the exciting new flavours and ingredients they’ve discovered abroad, British foodies are looking for summery flavours wherever they go right now – and we’re happy to oblige.
Never known to fall behind a culinary trend, the Quattro kitchen team has cooked up some scintillating summer sauces, aimed at street food stalls and al fresco diners enjoying the balmy weather across the country. We felt that a good starting point would be to look to the sunshine states of the world for inspiration. Demand for smokehouse food and BBQ sauces from The Americas has increased, along with gumbos, chicken and ribs and Mexican spicy foods.
The UK, London especially, has become a hotbed for Peruvian influences. Numerous Peruvian restaurants and eateries have opened in the capital in the last 5 years, bringing us cilantro (or coriander) dishes, mac ‘n’ cheese in various forms – but with a South American twist. The cheese should always be a little bit smoky….yum….
Asian Fusion flavours continue to permeate our high street. We have always loved, and continue to consume enthusiastically, sushi, noodles and dim sum. Fresh, tangy, cool – the perfect summer food.
Middle Eastern food is increasingly popular, such as Shakshuka – slow cooked tasty and aromatic, slightly sweet tomato sauce with eggs cooked in the sauce for a hearty breakfast or brunch, eaten with toasted flat bread or pitta and hummus. Arab restaurants have attracted UK lovers of spice for years, but the arrival of varied, vibrant and spirited Israeli restaurants is fairly new, with Jerusalem-born celebrity chef Yotam Ottolonghi and his partner Sami Tamimi opening a new eatery in London every year – or so it feels!
Still a firm favourite is chilli – used in recipes to create different flavours inspired by various countries and cultures, such as piri piri sauce and Caribbean and African hot chili dishes.
As one of the UK’s leading food manufacturers, we are always on trend. Here are some of the colourful concoctions we’ve developed for customers looking for outstanding food with a summery, global twist:
• A range of BBQ sauces including Carolina, Hickory, Kansas, Ketchup, Louisiana and Tennessee
• Fresh Summer soups including gorgonzola and broccoli Soup, greens and proteins soup and Italian wedding soup
• Seasonal desserts including Summer fruit compote
All are summer food products, ideal for eating outside in the sun. Let’s enjoy it while it lasts!