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Modernised Comfort Food

Re-imagined classics

Comfort food is evolving, blending classic recipes with modern twists that reflect chefs' cultural backgrounds and personal stories. Explore this new approach which preserves authenticity while offering fresh, exciting dining experiences that feel both familiar and innovative.

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WRITTEN BY

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Angela Hui

Writer

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Angela Hui

chef-gungun
Writer -

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Identity Through Food: A Culinary Narrative

Food is more than just sustenance; it's a powerful vehicle for storytelling, cultural expression, and personal identity. In today's world, where globalization and migration are constantly reshaping culinary landscapes, the connection between food and identity is more important than ever.

Angela Hui, a passionate advocate for identity-driven cuisine, explores this connection in depth. She highlights the ways in which food can connect us to our heritage, our communities, and ourselves.

Food as a Bridge to the Past
For many people, food is a powerful way to connect with their cultural heritage. Traditional recipes and cooking techniques, passed down through generations, carry the stories and memories of our ancestors. By embracing these culinary traditions, we can keep the past alive and share it with future generations.

 

Food as a Celebration of Diversity 
In a world that is increasingly diverse, food can be a powerful tool for celebrating our differences. By exploring the cuisines of other cultures, we can learn about new flavors, ingredients, and cooking techniques. This culinary exploration can broaden our horizons and foster a deeper understanding of the world around us. 

Food as a Form of Self-Expression 

Food can also be a powerful form of self-expression. The dishes we create and the ingredients we choose can reflect our personal tastes, values, and experiences. By sharing our culinary creations with others, we can share a part of ourselves with the world. 

The Future of Identity-Driven Cuisine
In a world that is increasingly interconnected, the connection between food and identity is more important than ever. As chefs and diners alike embrace the power of food to tell stories, celebrate diversity, and express themselves, we can look forward to a future where culinary experiences are both meaningful and memorable.

'"As a chef or restaurant owner, understanding the roots of food can transform your kitchen into a place that does more than just prepare meals; it can be a classroom to teach cultural history or a stage for celebrating dishes.''

Recipes that comfort

with refreshing twists

Grilled Fish & Chips

with Chef James Brown

South African Lamb & Apricot Sosaties

Grilled Fish & Chips

South African Lamb & Apricot Sosaties

This recipe perfectly embodies the Modernised Comfort Food trend by reimagining the classic dish with a fresh, contemporary twist. While the core elements remain familiar – tender fish and crispy chips – the use of grilling instead of frying offers a lighter, healthier version of the beloved comfort food. This modern approach highlights the chef’s ability to maintain authenticity while adding personal touches, such as seasoning with unique marinades or incorporating local, sustainable ingredients. This dish is a prime example of how comfort food can evolve, offering familiar warmth with a modern flair that invites diners to experience tradition in a new light. 

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Beef & Guinness Smash Burger

with Chef James Brown

Spicy Red Hot Creamy Ramen with Char Siu Chicken

Beef & Guinness Smash Burger

Spicy Red Hot Creamy Ramen with Char Siu Chicken

The Beef & Guinness Smash Burger is a perfect representation of the Modernised Comfort Food trend, blending hearty tradition with bold, innovative twists. Rooted in classic comfort, the smash burger elevates familiar flavours by incorporating Guinness, adding depth and richness to the beef patty while maintaining the satisfying simplicity of a burger. The use of locally sourced, high-quality ingredients brings a personal touch. It’s a modern take on a rustic favourite, delivering both nostalgia and surprise in every mouthful. 

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Fish Finger Sandwich and Kimchi Mayo

with Chef James Brown

Shrimp Bisque Crispy Noodles

Fish Finger Sandwich and Kimchi Mayo

Shrimp Bisque Crispy Noodles

While the fish finger sandwich is a beloved childhood classic, the addition of kimchi mayo introduces a bold, tangy kick, reflecting global culinary influences. The kimchi, with its fermented depth, brings an unexpected twist that plays off the familiar crispiness of the fish fingers, giving the dish a contemporary edge. This fusion of nostalgia and innovation blends comforting, familiar flavours with exciting new ingredients, making the dish feel both nostalgic and refreshingly modern at the same time. It’s a perfect example of how chefs are reinterpreting comfort food to tell a new story, one that’s full of flavour and fresh perspective. 

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Explore more recipes

From the Unilever Chef team

Mr. Ben San

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Mr. Ben San

Explore other Future Menus trends and discover inspirational recipes from the Unilever Chef team.

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Sharpen your skills

Get unlimited access to our FREE online culinary academy! Learn from renowed chefs around the globe through our concise, engaging training - all under 2 minutes!

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South Indian Cuisine: Intro and ingredients

by Chef Goya

2 minutes

The Art of Noodle-Making: Introduction

by Chef Pavel Kanja

2 minutes

Middle Eastern Cuisine: Introduction

by Chef Rabeh

3 minutes

Future Menus Trend Book Volume 3

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