The Frenzy for Flatbreads Shows Flavorful Opportunities
Look to Flatbreads for Inspiration!
Thanks to their convenience, portability, and flexibility, flatbreads have shown a strong popularity in 2019 that's bound to sustain well past 2020. Flatbreads are the perfect vehicles for a variety of flavors and textures and lend easily to experimentation.Also, they are a great platform for seasonal items and LTOs. They're a great way to use up extra ingredients and can be sold at a price point that makes further out ideas more approachable for wary customers.
How Flatbreads Can Work for You
Variety
The first thing to consider with flatbreads is the variety of types you can make. Traditional wheat flatbreads are great for Italian and Mediterranean concepts, while a masa flatbread is perfect for Latin inspiration. Try a flaky paratha-style flatbread for Indian flavors or a Bao flatbread for unique Asian ideas.
This, of course, is only a glance at what can be done with flatbread. From here you can infuse flavors like chile or sesame, or play with coloring agents like beets, annatto, turmeric, or activated charcoal.
Form
"But it's flat, right?"Not so fast. Flatbreads can be more than just their namesake. Consider rolling your flatbreads to make a wrap or gyro. A little creativity and you'll have yourself a pide. Try a folded sandwich for an easy twist on classic favorites.Shapes play a role here as well. Flatbreads can be rectangle, square, oval, circular, or torpedo-like. Heck, make a triangle if it pleases you. The point is you have a vehicle for imagination and creation that will drive your customers curiosity.
Toppings
And here's where flatbreads shine.Now that you've played with variety and form, you can have a field day with sauces, toppings, and fillings. Consider classic Mediterranean favorites like lamb gyro with garlic tzatziki and spicy harissa sauce, or a Korean flavor bomb made with spicy gochujang sauce, ground pork, and pickled vegetables.
There's always room for Italian favorites like chicken parmigiana, but try modernizing it with a crispy shallot breading and a fire roasted arrabiata sauce. Or double down on trends by doing a smoked brisket flatbread with ancho chile BBQ sauce and vinegar slaw.
Anything but Flat
And now's your chance to make your menu anything but flat, too. Let the fun and flavors fly when you play with your flatbread concepts and be sure to stay on top of the trends to keep them current. We'll be here letting you know what's popular.Cheers!
