Information Featured From Legendary Vendor Partner Kraft Heinz Foodservice - When it comes to popular condiments, hot sauce couldn’t be any hotter than it is right now. For operators to meet demand, it helps to understand what consumers are looking for when they want restaurants and kitchens to get spicy.
Some Like it Hot:
In a recent survey, consumers were loud and clear: they like their condiments with a kick. One in five1 consumers prefer either a spicy balanced by sweet flavor or a mildly spicy flavor, with nearly as many saying “the spicier the better”.
Big Demand for Bold Flavor:
There are many factors influencing the growth of hot and spicy foods. Namely, Hispanic populations, who drive demand for spicy condiments and ingredients2. Not to mention Millennials and Gen Z’s interest in spicy flavors, incorporated into unique or traditional dishes2. For more proof, just check out the number of spicy challenge videos out there today!
With this growing demand, 93%1 of operators are now keeping some form of hot sauce in their front of house, with 41%1 of operators keeping hot sauce within reach at front of house tables. This makes hot sauce the #21 condiment on front of house tables, second only to ketchup.
Bring the Heat (and Keep It Cool):
Spicy food may not be for everyone, but there’s a way to satisfy customers looking for a bite with some bite and make spicy condiments delicious for everyone.
The key? Balancing spicy flavors with cooling or sweet ingredients like mayo, sour cream, honey and aioli to create unique combinations - like Chipotle Mayo sauce - that are appealing across demographics.
Check out these recipes for some ideas to get spicy on your menu!
Coconut Shrimp with Spicy Sweet & Sour Sauce
Raspberry Chipotle Cheese Curd Dunking Platter
Chipotle Cinnamon Chicken Kabobs
Crab Cake Sandwich with Spicy Aioli
Sources: 1 Datassential Condiments, Sauces, and Dressings Keynote December 2018, 2 Technomic, Flavor Consumer Trend Report 2017
