Fastest-Growing Dairy Products at Full-Service Restaurants
Canadian full-service restaurants are spotlighting a variety of dairy products, particularly global cheeses from regions in France, India and Italy.
Creme fraiche is the dairy product rising the most on Canadian FSR menus. This soured French cream is comparable to American sour cream and operators are pairing it with indulgent options such as caviar, chocolate desserts and tarts.
Paneer, a South Asian cheese texturally similar to tofu, is appearing with butter chicken and roasted vegetable curries. Newer applications include Indian-style paneer pizza.
Operators are also menuing bocconcini, small mozzarella balls originating in Italy. In addition to pizza and pasta, operators are stuffing bocconcini into zucchini rolls for a healthier option. Salads are another popular way to menu the cheese, with bocconcini often paired in these dishes with beets, oranges or chorizo.
Cottage cheese is growing across Canadian menus as well, particularly as a protein-packed addition to breakfast platters. It is also appearing in Indian-style dishes.
Asiago cheese takes the last spot on the top five list, often in more commonly menued dishes. This includes Caesar salads, cheese ravioli and pizza. The flavour of Asiago cheese is often compared to Parmesan, and its versatility allows operators to use it in a wide range of options.
