Whether you're organising an elegant dinner, hosting a casual gathering, or running a professional catering business – autumn is a great time to get inspired.
Bright colors, smoky aromas and chilly days, sumptuous comfort food and fresh seasonal produce are the order of the day! Below, we'll explore five ideas for autumn dining that will help you get inspired in the new season.
1. Seasonal products
It's a good idea to use seasonal fresh produce all year round when possible, but in the fall, it's especially exciting! The fiery colors, earthy flavors and endless spices in food and drink can ignite the senses.
Even better if you also have the option to use local products, such as those from local growers or farmers' markets. But if not, it is enough to simply use fruits and vegetables that are suitable for the time of year.
Cinnamon apple pie, hearty root vegetable roasts or stews, and roast dinners are all the most popular – and highly seasonal pumpkin spices! Whether you and your guests prefer sweet or savory, light or filling, Autumn has a range of suitable ingredients and flavors to choose from.
2. Campfire Night
The popular bonfire night tradition in the UK is a great opportunity to sample a variety of autumn flavours. Toffee apples, hot chocolate, sausages and parkins are usually the most popular.
Host your own party from home – big or small – and fruit punch for children and themed cocktails for adults to make it family-friendly. You can also pack your own autumn picnic and take it to a local campfire. Delicious grilled sandwiches, granola bars and a bottle of coffee all came into being.
No matter how you choose to celebrate, autumn is a great time to draw inspiration from holiday and festive traditions – including Halloween and Harvest Festival. See what you can enjoy locally and create your own activities!
3. Plant-based selection
Since seasonal products are so unique and enticing at this time of year, now is the perfect time to explore plant-based options. Make the most of your fruits and vegetables with fresh, delicious recipes, and if you're not sure, don't hesitate to look for resources online.
More and more people are reducing their meat intake and increasing their vegetable intake. This has very beneficial effects on your health and the planet. Why not start by making one of your own favorites more plant-based – like a hot dog, a burger or a selection of soups? There are more plant-based options than ever before – even your favorite meats and cheeses!
If you're offering catering services to your guests – or running a cooking business – it's always very popular to offer plant-based options. It's not just for vegans, vegetarians, and allergies. A plant-based diet can be healthy, vibrant, and exciting; perfect for adventurous meat eaters!
4. Oktoberfest
Why not take inspiration from abroad this fall? Celebrations such as the Oktoberfest in Germany are becoming more common – London celebrates its own version! - They often have great food ideas.
Sausages (including plant-based foods), pretzels, fresh bread, high-quality beer and much more can be found – usually by the roaring fire or in a cozy bar. Host your own celebrations with an outdoor barbecue or in the comfort of the lounge.
As night approaches, celebrations and getting together to eat food are great ways to stay uplifted during the dark months. Food has long been known for its many mood-boosting properties, and autumn is a great time to take advantage of them!
5. Special hot drinks
A famous coffee producer launches their pumpkin spice latte at this time of year – so why not make it yourself? Even if you don't have time to cook an exquisite meal, the wide variety of autumn flavors is the perfect drink.
For example, adding cinnamon and a pinch of nutmeg can immediately help the drink feel warmer and more soothing. You can draw inspiration from autumn delicacies such as apple pie, spiced cider, hot chocolate and pumpkin dishes. Get creative as much as you can!
Hot drinks are also a great way to hug and connect with loved ones on cool nights, and can also invite guests and patrons unlimitedly!