Unusual Fruit and Spice Combinations

The world of gastronomy is brimming with unexpected delights—the kind that surprise the palate and transform the ordinary into the extraordinary. Among these wonders are unusual combinations of fruits and spices. While fruits often conjure thoughts of sweetness and freshness, and spices evoke warmth and depth, the marriage of the two can yield delicious results.

Mango and chili: One of the most popular yet unconventional pairings is mango with chili. Found in various cuisines, particularly in tropical countries such as Mexico and Thailand, this combination is a vibrant dance of flavors. The natural sweetness and juiciness of mango create a perfect balance to the fiery heat of chili powder or flakes. Our favorite is to sprinkle chili powder on fresh mango slices for an appetizer or snack. Another great preparation is chili-mango salsa to accompany grilled seafood or chicken.

Pineapple and cinnamon: Cinnamon's warm, woody notes are a delightful match for the tropical tang of pineapple. This combination works beautifully in desserts such as pineapple upside-down cake, but it’s equally impressive when grilled pineapple is dusted with cinnamon and served as an accompaniment to savory dishes like pork or as a topping for yogurt.

Watermelon and sea salt: A sprinkle of flaky sea salt on watermelon chunks really amps up the flavour of watermelon. This is a very refreshing snack on a hot afternoon, replacing electrolytes lost in sweat. A savory watermelon dish pairs watermelon, salty feta cheese, thinly sliced red onion and salad greens.

Cantaloupe and black pepper: A perfectly ripe cantaloupe, with its hydrating sweetness, takes on a new dimension when paired with the sharp and earthy heat of black pepper. A sprinkle of freshly cracked pepper over cantaloupe wedges amplifies their natural flavor. This has been a favorite way to enjoy cantaloupe in my family for four generations!

Strawberries and balsamic vinegar: Though not a spice in the traditional sense, balsamic vinegar provides a tangy, aromatic depth that pairs beautifully with the bright sweetness of ripe strawberries. The acidity of balsamic vinegar enhances the berry's natural juiciness, creating a combination that is both sophisticated and simple. Add a touch of cracked black pepper for an even more complex flavor profile.

Peach and ginger: Peach and ginger might seem like an unusual duo, but the result is a harmonious blend of soft, juicy sweetness and sharp, peppery warmth. The combination works wonders in jams, pies, and cobblers, but a simply delicious summer dessert is chilled peach halves poached in a syrup of fresh ginger and honey.

Lemon and thyme: While thyme is a herb, not a spice, its earthy and lemony undertones make it an ideal partner for lemon. This combination is versatile, working well in both sweet lemon desserts as well as savory lemon-thyme chicken. The blend brings out the best of both ingredients.

Pomegranate and cumin: Cumin’s warm and nutty flavor provides a striking contrast to the tangy sweetness of pomegranate seeds. Together, they create a balance that works well in Middle Eastern-inspired salads, dips, or grain bowls.

The charm of experimenting with fruit and spice combinations lies in the endless possibilities. While some pairings, like apple and cinnamon, are time-honored classics, others are waiting to be discovered. To create your own unique pairings:

• Think about the flavor profile—sweet, sour, salty, bitter, or umami—and how the spice can enhance or counterbalance that.

• Experiment with different forms of spices, such as ground, whole, or infused in syrups or powders.

• Incorporate contrasting elements, such as a drizzle of honey, a squeeze of lime, or a pinch of sea salt, to elevate the combination further.