Unusual Flavor Pairings that Just Work
When it comes to the world of flavor pairings, there are some combinations that just seem to weird to possibly be good, until you try them. A classic example that’s not too far out there is peanut butter and bananas, a combination that has been a favorite of many for years. The creamy, nutty flavor of peanut butter pairs perfectly with the sweetness and texture of ripe bananas. Whether you're enjoying a peanut butter and banana sandwich or a smoothie, this pairing is only a little unusual.
A viral trend on social media saw the mainstream rise of another strange flavor combination: watermelon and mustard. While it may seem like an odd pairing, the tangy and spicy flavor of mustard can bring out the sweet juiciness of watermelon. Other unexpected fruit combinations include raspberry and basil where the sweet and slightly tart flavor of raspberries pairs beautifully with the earthy, herbal flavor of fresh basil, and strawberry and black pepper where the spicy kick of black pepper brings out the sweetness of ripe strawberries, making for a surprising and delicious pairing Both of these pairings work particularly well in salads, desserts, and cocktails.
For savory flavor lovers and those with a sweet tooth, the unexpected combination of miso and maple syrup offers the best of both worlds in a surprisingly well balanced combination of flavors. The deep umami flavor of miso, a fermented soybean paste, pairs amazingly well with the sweetness of maple syrup. This combination can be used as a marinade for meat or tofu, or as a glaze for roasted vegetables. So the next time you think two things might not go together, give it a try first, you never know what kind of wonderful new flavor combinations you could find.
