Our Fave Food Trends to Come out of Quarantine, From Pancake Cereal to Bread Art

Posted by Laura Grande. Last updated on February 12, 2021 by Food Network Canada Editors

As we spend more time indoors, experienced cooks and novices alike are frequenting the kitchen — and creating some seriously mouth-watering eats. Social media, in particular, has seen a significant influx of food-related posts. From homemade pasta and pancake cereal to pickled veggies and focaccia bread art, there's something for everyone when it comes to these recipes that have been catapulted into popularity during quarantine.

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Feta Tomato Pasta

The latest quarantine cooking trend? TikTok's baked feta tomato pasta. With just nine ingredients and 25 minutes from start to finish, this weeknight dinner recipe is as easy as 1-2-3. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/fun-with-food/blog/feta-tomato-pasta-tiktok/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Feta Tomato Pasta</a>
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Regrowing Veggies

 Searches around regrowing veggie scraps has been on the rise in recent weeks. That's right: you can give your vegetables a second chance at life right in your own kitchen. Not only does it help reduce food waste, but it saves you money (and multiple trips to the grocery store) in the long run. Who knew creating your own indoor garden was this easy? These are the best <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/kitchen-basics/photos/vegetables-regrow-in-kitchen/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">vegetables you can regrow in your kitchen</a>.
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Mac and Cheese

 <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/comfort-food/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Comfort food</a> has seen a significant spike in popularity as we continue to hunker down indoors – and what's more soothing to the belly and the soul than a hearty bowl of creamy mac and cheese? Whether you're sticking with a classic or jazzing it up with meat or veggies, this one-pot dish will never go out of style. Find more <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/everyday-cooking/photos/best-macaroni-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">macaroni recipes that will satisfy your pasta cravings</a>. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/creamy-baked-macaroni-and-cheese/21199/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Creamy Baked Macaroni and Cheese</a>
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Dalgona Coffee

 Humans are a resourceful sort, especially when grabbing a cup of coffee from your favourite cafe is (temporarily) out of the question. In the interim, many have had to get creative at home, whipping up fancy hot drinks that would make any of us worthy of winning Barista of the Year. Dalgona coffee, in particular, has seen an increase in recipe searches. Whip together equal portions of instant coffee powder, sugar and hot water until creamy before adding cold or hot milk. Pair your hot cuppa alongside <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/vanilla-and-coffee-cream-puffs/22463/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Valerie Bertinelli's vanilla and coffee cream puffs</a> for the ultimate at-home cafe experience.
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Sourdough Bread

 More than any other food trend lately, bread baking has seen the biggest upward trajectory. Sourdough bread, in particular, has become the go-to for at-home baking. Whether you're a complete novice or have some experience under your belt, there's something so comforting about flour-caked hands and the smell of fresh bread wafting through the house. Find more <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/baking/photos/homemade-bread-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">homemade bread recipes you'll want to make again and again</a>. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/baking/blog/sourdough-bread-recipe/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Perfect Sourdough Loaf</a>
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Focaccia Bread Art

 Chances are you've come across a lot of fancy at-home recipes on social media lately – specifically the hot new way to elevate the average loaf of focaccia bread. This bread art trend involves manipulating colourful toppings to look like a watercolour painting or floral bouquet. It's been a treat to see people embracing their creative sides when it comes to switching up their favourite recipes. If you're feeling a little less ambitious, you can try this beautiful <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/blueberry-focaccia/19737/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">blueberry focaccia</a> recipe or Anna Olson's savoury <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/rosemary-onion-focaccia/12795/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">rosemary onion focaccia</a>.
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Fresh Pasta

 Ah, yes. Homemade pasta – the cooking project on everyone's to-do list that always manages to fall on the back burner. But now that we all have a bit more time on our hands, people are finally getting their hands dirty (so to speak) and attempting their own fresh pasta recipes at home. There is no feeling better than knowing exactly what you are consuming — and handmade pasta is so delicious that you'll wonder why you ever ate the packaged stuff in the first place! We've also got the scoop on <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/everyday-cooking/photos/how-to-pair-pasta-shapes-with-sauces/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">how to pair pasta shapes with sauces</a>. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/homemade-pasta/10447/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Homemade Pasta</a>
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Pancake Cereal

 For the younger generation, pancake cereal recipes have saturated TikTok and Instagram in recent days. So, how popular is it? According to <a href="https://www.insider.com/how-to-make-pancake-cereal-tiktok-trend-2020-5" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">reports</a>, bowls of mini pancakes covered in syrup have exploded across platforms with the #pancakecereal hashtag receiving more than 10.6 million views. Sounds like a bona fide <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/fun-with-food/photos/pinterest-food-trends-2020/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">food trend</a> to us! Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/silver-dollar-buttermilk-pecan-pancakes-with-bourbon-molasses-butter-and-maple-syrup/21338/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Bobby Flay's Silver Dollar Buttermilk-Pecan Pancakes</a>
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Chocolate Chip Cookies

 Sometimes, when things aren't going well, we turn to the comforts of old favourites – be it <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/food-network-insider/blog/binge-watch-food-network-canada-shows/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">binge-watching a beloved TV show</a> or indulging in a little baking therapy. The classic chocolate chip cookie, in particular, is a popular indulgent go-to. At the end of the day, what's better than a soft, chewy cookie when the world doesn't feel right? Find all <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/baking/photos/top-chocolate-chip-cookie-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">our top chocolate chip cookie recipes for a better week ahead</a>. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/classic-chocolate-chip-cookies/12744/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Anna Olson's Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies</a>
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Casseroles

 Chances are you've been going <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/comfort-food/photos/ree-drummond-must-try-casserole-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">casserole</a> crazy in recent weeks. When you're feeling down or too busy scrambling to figure out a new <a href="https://www.hgtv.ca/offices/photos/our-editors-share-their-best-work-from-home-secrets-1929187/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">work-from-home routine</a>, cooking can be a little daunting. Which is why the classic casserole has seen a significant uptick in popularity. It's the original one-pot wonder and we wouldn't have it any other way. Check out <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/comfort-food/photos/30-must-try-casserole-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">our easiest casserole recipes to simplify your weeknights</a>. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/mexican-rice-casserole/21674/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Pioneer Woman's Mexican Rice Casserole</a>
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Pickling

 Pickling has always been one of the easiest and most enjoyable at-home food projects. But with more people indoors these days, there's been a significant rise in people experimenting with various pickled food recipes. Whether it's a classic <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/pickled-beets/15928/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">pickled beets</a> recipe or the more unique <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/pickled-squash-marmalade/18996/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">pickled squash "marmalade"</a>, there are plenty of options that will leave your pantry well-stocked for months to come. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/pickled-peaches/17715/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Pickled Peaches</a>
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Cinnamon Buns

 If you've noticed an increase in cinnamon bun beauty shots on your Instagram feed, there's a reason for that. They're relatively easy to make and oh-so-delicious, especially when you're looking for something to do while at home. When it comes to desserts, few are more satisfying and comforting than a warm cinnamon bun slathered in homemade icing. *chef's kiss* Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/baking/blog/gooey-cinnamon-buns/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Gooey Cinnamon Buns</a>
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Homemade Jam

 One of the easiest ways to dive into food projects is to start small, especially if you're somewhat of a novice. Homemade jam is a great place to start and allows you to make the most of all those ripe seasonal ingredients. The process is also fun to document on social media and will no doubt brighten your feed and your spirits. No fresh fruit? <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/baking/photos/best-recipes-with-jam-jelly/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Bake these tasty sweet treats with jams and jellies</a>. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/the-pioneer-womans-strawberry-jam/18655/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Pioneer Woman's Strawberry Jam</a>
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Canned Food

 Considering how difficult it's become to simply hop over to your local grocery store for fresh foods, many have turned to canned goods when crafting delicious meals at home – and in most cases you wouldn't even know the difference. Find more creative ways to used pantry staples such as <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/everyday-cooking/photos/ways-to-use-canned-salmon/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">canned salmon</a>, <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/everyday-cooking/photos/11-creative-ways-to-use-canned-tuna/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">canned tuna</a> and <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/everyday-cooking/photos/best-recipes-with-beans/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">canned beans</a>. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/ina-gartens-salmon-cakes/16830/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Ina Garten's Salmon Cakes</a>
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Banana Bread

 Move over <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/baking/blog/sourdough-bread-recipe/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">sourdough bread</a>, you're not the only baked good in town. Banana bread has always been a breakfast staple, but perhaps never moreso than in recent weeks. Whether you're returning to a family favourite or trying something new – like this decadent <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/double-chocolate-banana-bread/18790/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">double chocolate banana bread</a> – you can't go wrong with this comfort classic. Find more <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/baking/photos/15-ingenious-ways-to-use-overripe-bananas/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">brilliant ways to use overripe bananas</a>. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/baking/blog/how-to-make-the-perfect-banana-bread-every-time-plus-freezing-tips-and-a-recipe/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Perfect Banana Bread</a>
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Meal Prep and Freezer Meals

 Although the kids aren't in school and most of us aren't schlepping into the office, it doesn't mean that a little bit of meal prep doesn't come in handy. Searches for tips and tricks to prepare and/or freeze meals has seen an increase in popularity in recent weeks. It really goes to show we're all in the same boat. Find out <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/everyday-cooking/blog/how-to-prep-slow-cooker-freezer-meals-for-busy-nights/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">how to prep slow cooker freezer meals to get you through the week</a>. Additionally, these <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/everyday-cooking/photos/meal-prep-ideas/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">simple meal prep ideas will help you plan like a pro</a>.
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Fancy Instant Ramen

 Elevate your soup game by grabbing a regular ol' pack of instant ramen noodles to craft an epic bowl that tastes even better than takeout. You don't need to look any further than your Instagram feed to see all the clever and delicious ways people are creating their own yummy ramen recipes. Find more <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/back-to-school/photos/ramen-noodle-recipe-hacks/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">genius ways to hack a pack of ramen noodles</a>. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/rabokkitteokbokki-spicy-ramen-and-rice-cake/23126/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Rabokki/Tteokbokki (Spicy Ramen and Rice Cake)</a>
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Carrot Cake

It seems that, more than ever, experienced bakers and newbies alike are both tackling their own versions of carrot cake in their kitchens. Not into cake? Check out <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/baking/photos/crave-worthy-carrot-cake-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">our most crave-worthy carrot cake recipes in every form</a>. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/girl-meets-farm/blog/molly-yeh-carrot-cake-recipe/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Molly Yeh's Carrot Cake With Spiced Cream Cheese Frosting</a>
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Brownies

 Much like chocolate chip cookies, there's something undeniably comforting about whipping up a batch of mouth-watering brownies. One fascinating thing to come from our current situation, though, is the amount of people attempting unique twists on the dessert staple. Whether it's adding in <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/photos/superfood-spotlight-best-sweet-potato-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">sweet potatoes</a>, <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/everyday-cooking/photos/easy-and-delicious-zucchini-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">zucchini</a>, or <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/blog/best-vegan-egg-substitutes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">vegan egg substitutes</a>, there's a plethora of ways to enjoy this yummy treat. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/baking/blog/fudgy-sweet-potato-brownies-gluten-free/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Gluten-Free Fudgy Sweet Potato Brownies</a>
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Homemade Stock

 Instead of experiencing the frustration that comes with the realization that you don't have any stock on hand, make a batch of the homemade variety in bulk that you can freeze afterward. Whether you want to try <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/valeries-homemade-chicken-stock/22350/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">homemade chicken stock</a> or a simple <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/vegetable-stock/11891/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">vegetable stock</a>, there's no reason why you can't whip this up in your own kitchen. Find out <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/kitchen-basics/blog/how-to-make-fast-homemade-turkey-stock-with-your-instant-pot/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">how to make fast homemade turkey stock with your Instant Pot.</a>
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Curbside Pickup

 Curbside pickup is the new way to order and indulge in some tasty takeout these days. There's been a significant uptick in popularity for curbside pickup as we band together to help out the food businesses we love most. Not in the mood to order takeout tonight? Try these <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/global-eats/photos/indian-recipes-better-than-takeout/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Indian recipes that are even better than takeout</a>. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/extra-crispy-indian-spiced-chicken-wings/19612/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Extra-Crispy Indian Spiced Chicken Wings</a>
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Have Some Fun!

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