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I came across the following top 10 flavour pairings in the Chefs Quarterly magazine by the BC Chefs Association. This marks the 10th year of the Flavour Forecast, compiled by McCormick, a company that specializes in spices, herbs and seasonings. Although this list may be biased towards the company’s own offering, I think it’s an interesting read for hobby chefs who enjoy experimenting with different flavours and spices. On its website, it also has a number of recipes for each flavour pairing – of course, using its own products – but I’m sure any brand of the same product would do the job.

Enjoy this read. If you ever try the flavour pairing and like it, please feel free to let me know.

Fried Green Tomatoes with Crab & Creole Mustard (Photo from McCormick's website)

McCormick® Flavour Forecast™ 2010 Top 10 Flavour Pairings:

1. Roasted Ginger & Rhubarb: Exciting layers of spicy and sour, with warming notes and a powerful tang
2. Thai Basil & Watermelon: A colourful study in contrasts offers a sweet, refreshing balance
3. Caraway & Bitter Greens: An unmistakable spice tames the bitter bite of bold greens
4. Bay Leaves & Preserved Lemon: Slowly coaxed flavour worth the wait, an aromatic mix of bitter, salty-tart and bright
5. Almond & Ale: The bittersweet character of both ingredients makes a congenial, cozy and hearty match
6. Turmeric & Vine-Ripened Tomatoes: Earthy and naturally sweet, this colourful, healthful blend is always in season
7. Pumpkin Pie Spice & Coconut Milk: This lush, warm pairing reconnects with its tropical roots
8. Roasted Cumin & Chickpeas: This globetrotting Mediterranean duet delivers warm, earthy flavour harmonies
9. Creole Mustard & Shellfish: A vibrant pair that brings Gulf Coast gusto to any part of the country
10. Chives & Fish Sauce: Savory fusion of French and Asian cuisines

Grilled Bitter Greens with Caraway & Peach (Photo from McCormick's website)

Leading trends in the McCormick Flavour Forecast 2010 include:

• In is the New Out: Big flavours and new definitions of “dinner party” bring the best of restaurant meals home
• Always In Season: Preserving the peak of ripeness for year-round enjoyment, fresh at the ready
• Meatless on the Menu: Mixing up the centre of the plate
• Ethnic Sizzle: Tastes of the global grill, appearing in a backyard near you
• New Comfort Cuisine: A renewed appreciation for the integrity of ingredients and cooking techniques
• Where the Cocktail Meets the Kitchen: Shaken or stirred, tasteful inspiration takes on new forms