As the Christmas and New Year festivities unfold, the Godrej Food Trends Report explores India’s culinary scene, shining a spotlight on the enduring love for baked treats. Cakes and pastries, once considered occasional luxuries, now seamlessly weave into festive traditions, highlighting the nation’s diverse culinary choices. The ongoing fondness for these baked delights holds a special place in Indian hearts, evolving into cherished indulgences. This transformation is attributed to the creative contributions of skilled bakers, playing a pivotal role in shaping and elevating this sweet category over time.
A notable trend highlighted in the Godrej Food Trends Report is the increasing eagerness of home consumers to venture into experimenting with pastries and cakes within their own kitchens. This shift signifies a craving for hands-on culinary experiences and a readiness to explore global culinary offerings. Consequently, there has been a broadening in the range of pastries crafted at home, enriching Indian kitchens with a captivating assortment of both traditional and international flavors.
Approximately 88% of experts attest to the indispensable role that bakeries play in culinary ecosystems. Emerging from this significance are distinct communities of bakers, exemplified by the kandurs in Kashmir, nanbais in Lucknow, Hyderabad, and Delhi, paders in Goa, and paowallas, Parsi, and Irani bakers in Mumbai and Gujarat. Together, these communities contribute to a diverse array of baked goods, encompassing local variations of cakes, pastries, and more.
The consensus among 88% of panelists is that Middle Eastern-inspired treats like Baklava and Kunefe are experiencing a surge in popularity. Yet, for daring enthusiasts who relish exploring complex flavor combinations that blend sweetness with spice, umami, and even fermented notes, engaging in baking workshops, embarking on mithai walks, and savoring dessert degustation menus offer thrilling opportunities for involvement.
75% of experts encourage the baking industry to embrace an extended and prosperous phase of rapid growth and transformation. This entails anticipating more innovation and the evolution of established offerings inspired by European and American baking traditions.
Rushina Munshaw Ghildiyal, managing director of Perfect Bite Consulting and Curating Editor of the annual Godrej Foods Trends Report says, “In India, on every special occasion or festival, individuals partake in savouring cultural sweet delicacies. With the arrival of Christmas celebrations, we are observing a delightful amalgamation of traditional and global influences in the pastry and cake landscape. Post covid, especially, home chefs are displaying their creativity and embracing a wide range of flavours into their baked creations. Godrej Food Trends Report indicates that the tradition of enjoying delectable cakes and pastries during the festive season is now stronger than ever.”