7 Unlikely Food Combinations That Just Work
/As an interior designer, you're always on the hunt for inventive combinations that just work—whether it's pairing colors, textures, or styles in ways that surprise and delight. But why stop at design? To get you thinking outside the box in a whole new way, I’m bringing you some unexpected food combos–from bold main dishes to unconventional desserts–that might just spark your creativity, as well as your appetite!
1. Peanut Butter + Kimchi
We’re kicking off strong with a pairing that seems straight out of left field: peanut butter and kimchi. If you think about it, both of these have rich, bold flavors—peanut butter with its creamy nuttiness, and kimchi with that tangy, fermented punch. Now, bring them together in a sandwich or, even better, whisk them into a sauce for noodles. The peanut butter adds a luscious texture, while kimchi's acidity cuts through the richness, balancing the dish with its slight heat and sourness. This is a combo that does make sense once you taste it!
2. Salmon + Maple Syrup
Sweet and savory, smokey and sticky: salmon and maple syrup might just be the perfect match. The rich, almost buttery texture of salmon marries beautifully with the sweetness of maple syrup. The syrup brings out the smoky undertones of the fish, giving it a caramelized glaze when cooked. Whether you’re grilling, roasting, or pan-frying your salmon, drizzle it with a bit of maple syrup and let the flavors melt into each other.
3. Radishes + Butter
This pairing may come across as odd at first glance, but radishes and butter is a staple French recipe that’s simple yet delicious. The peppery bite of radishes can be intense, but a little butter smooths things out, turning that crisp bite into a creamy, mild treat. Spread it on a piece of fresh bread or enjoy it straight up as an appetizer. It’s one of those things that sounds too basic to be good, but once you try it, you'll see why the French swear by it.
4. Shrimp + Cinnamon
Shrimp and cinnamon is definitely one for the books. Cinnamon is often associated with sweet dishes, but when paired with shrimp, it enhances the natural sweetness of the seafood in an unexpected way. It’s not overwhelming—it just adds a warm, earthy depth that works shockingly well. You can dust the shrimp with a hint of cinnamon while grilling or roasting to bring out the subtle flavors, with just a hint of heat. It’s a pairing you never saw coming, but once you’ve tried it, you’ll want to keep experimenting.
5. Mango + Chili Powder
Here’s a combo with roots in Mexican street food that’s about as refreshing as it gets: mango and chili powder. It’s already beloved in Mexico, but for those who haven’t tried it yet, this might be the most fun way to eat fruit. The juicy, sweetness of mango pairs beautifully with the smoky, slightly spicy kick from the chili powder, creating a perfect balance between sweet and heat. Plus, the vibrant colors alone are a treat for the eyes. Serve it as a summer snack or a bold addition to a party platter.
6. Vanilla Ice Cream + Soy Sauce
This one’s not for the faint of heart, but vanilla ice cream and soy sauce is a sweet-salty revelation. It’s the kind of pairing that makes you hesitate for a second, but once that soy sauce hits the creamy vanilla, something magical happens. The umami flavor from the soy sauce brings out the richness of the ice cream, while adding just the right amount of salt to balance the sweetness. For an extra touch, sprinkle some black sesame seeds on top for a bit of crunch and nuttiness.
7. White Chocolate + Cucumber
Last but not least, we have the soothing combination of white chocolate and cucumber. You might not immediately think of pairing these two, but they balance each other in a truly refreshing way. The rich, creamy sweetness of white chocolate, such as in a mousse, finds its match in the cool, crisp bite of cucumber. Add a squeeze of lime, and you’ve got a dessert that’s not too heavy, not too sweet—just a well-rounded, refreshing finish to any meal.
I’m willing to bet a few of these pairings have piqued your curiosity, am I right? Hopefully, you're feeling inspired to shake things up and try something a little different. And hey—if one of them doesn’t hit the mark, at least it’ll make for a fun experiment! (But trust me, people swear by these, so I promise it’s not a prank!)
xx, Danae