Whether you are looking to liven up your summer menu or grab the attention
of consumers with new, unique flavors, we’ve got 4 herb-forward ideas to spark inspiration.
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Mango, Basil & Cayenne Paletas
Tangy Grill-Ready Seasoning Blend
Butterfly Pea Flower, Hibiscus & Mint Mocktail
Jeera Soda
Summer Flavor Inspiration #1
MANGO, BASIL & CAYENNE PALETAS
Paletas are the Latin American answer to
frozen fruit pops and are commonly sold by street vendors or made available in eateries and kiosks called
paleterías. The dash of spiciness from the cayenne is a nice contrast to the sweet flavor of mango. Basil,
one of the quintessential summer herbs, adds a freshness to this cool treat. “Swicy” has been one of the major
food and beverage industry trends this year. Give the people what they want by adding this sweet and spicy
popsicle to your seasonal menu—a great option for food trucks, coffee shops or specialty ice cream stands.
How to Make Mango, Basil & Cayenne Paletas
Ingredients:
4 large mangos, peeled, seeded and cut into chunks
1 teaspoon dried basil
Juce of 2 limes
½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
½ cup white sugar
Instructions:
Combine mango chunks, basil, lime juice, cayenne pepper and salt in a blender or food processor and blend until
smooth. Transfer fruit mixture into a large bowl and stir in until completely dissolved. Pour mixture into freezer
pop molds and freeze until firm.
Serving Suggestion
Keep it fun and interesting—add the paleta to a glass of white
wine for a sweet, attention-getting cocktail.
Other Ways to Use Mango, Basil, Cayenne Flavor Combination
These flavors would also be great in a smoothie, mocktail or cocktail.
Mango
Summer Flavor Inspiration #2
TANGY GRILL-READY SEASONING BLEND
Combine a mixture of ground Hibiscus, Chile Pepper, Orange Peel and Salt for a bold flavor,
perfect for dressing up chicken, fish or pork before grilling. For a different take, complement
a refreshing pineapple margarita by rimming the glass with this special seasoning blend.
Summer Flavor Inspiration #3
BUTTERFLY PEA FLOWER, HIBISCUS & MINT MOCKTAIL
These refreshing summer flavors and a beautiful bold color will capture attention and please the tastebuds.
How to Make Butterfly Pea Flower, Hibiscus & Mint Mocktail
Ingredients:
1 teaspoon (per 8oz. water) Hibiscus
1 teaspoon (per 8oz. water) Butterfly Pea Flower Tea
3 tablespoon Peppermint or Spearmint
1 cup Sugar
1 cup Water
Instructions:
1. Start by making a mint simple syrup to have on hand for a variety of summer mocktails and cocktails. Combine 1 cup of sugar, 1 cup of water with 3 tablespoons of dried peppermint or spearmint loose-leaf tea in a sauce pan.
2. Bring to a boil over medium heat until all of the sugar is dissolved. Turn off heat and let the mint steep for 10 minutes.
3. Strain and let cool. Store in fridge for up to a month.
4. Brew equal parts Butterfly Pea Flower and Hibiscus by steeping for 5–10 minutes in hot water in a tea strainer, tea pot or French press. Let cool.
5. Pour over ice, and add mint simple syrup to taste.
Serving Suggestion
Make it bubbly—add soda water or tonic water for even more vibrance and pleasing effervescense.
Make it fancy—instead of pouring over ice, mix in a cocktail shaker with ice and gin or vodka. Pour into a martini or small cocktail glass. Garnish with a fresh mint leaf or lemon twist.
Make it ombre—For a layered look, brew the Hibiscus and Butterfly Pea Flower Teas separately. Pour the Hibiscus tea in the bottom of the cup, add simple syrup, then top with the Butterfly Pea Flower Tea by slowly pouring it over the back of a spoon in the cup.
Summer Flavor Inspiration #4
JEERA SODA
A popular summer drink in India, this is a
savory, bubbly concoction made with ground cumin, black peppercorns, sugar, salt, chat masala, lemon or lime,
and soda water. Introduce and entice your customers with this combination of spices and flavors. To make it
easy to serve at your restaurant, bar or cafe, prepare the base syrup
in bulk ahead of time and store it up to a month. Then simply combine the Jeera Syrup, lime juice and soda
over ice for a refreshing and new summer menu item. Feeling wild? Add some whisky or experiement with other
spirits and liqueurs!
Whether you’re seeking inspiration for personal
enjoyment or to attract discerning palates, these herb-inspired concepts are sure to spark creativity and delight,
making your seasonal menu unforgettable. For even more ideas for your next product or menu item, browse our blog
or search our catalog of over 500 bulk herbs, spices and teas.
