7 Simple Meals That Have Been Overcomplicated by Trends

In an age of ever-changing culinary trends, the simplicity of classic dishes often takes a backseat. While many of these traditional meals are beloved for their ease and comfort, food trends have reimagined them into elaborate, often over-the-top versions.

The charm of simplicity is lost as recipes become more intricate, often involving high-end ingredients and complex techniques. But do these trendy upgrades really make meals better, or do they overcomplicate the joy of cooking and eating?

Tacos

Tacos have long been a symbol of culinary versatility, with simple fillings like seasoned beef, chicken, or pork paired with fresh toppings like salsa, onions, and cilantro. However, the rise of social media has led to an explosion of “Instagram-worthy” taco recipes that are often overcomplicated with unique, hard-to-find ingredients.

Rather than enjoying a quick, flavorful meal, many now feel the need to slow-cook meats, create homemade sauces, and source exotic garnishes like pickled radishes, cotija cheese, or even microgreens. The reality is that tacos, at their core, don’t require such elaborate preparations.

Salad

Salads have long been seen as a healthy, easy meal option, but the trend of “grain bowls” and “superfood salads” has transformed this simple dish into something that requires hours of preparation and specialized ingredients. Today’s trendy salads often feature grains like quinoa or farro, along with toppings such as avocado, roasted sweet potatoes, and a variety of homemade dressings.

Mac and Cheese

Mac and cheese is the epitome of comfort food. Traditionally, this dish consists of pasta and cheese, with perhaps a dash of seasoning to enhance its flavor. However, in recent years, this once-simple meal has become a gourmet experience. From the addition of lobster and truffle oil to intricate cheese blends, the dish has shifted from a cozy family dinner to expensive fine dining.

While these additions may elevate the flavor for some, they take away from the simplicity that made mac and cheese a household staple. Instead of a plate of creamy, cheesy goodness, today’s versions require specialty ingredients, driving up costs and preparation time.

These gourmet twists may be delicious, but they overshadow the dish’s original essence, quick, comforting, and satisfying. Returning to the classic combination of pasta and cheese allows home cooks to enjoy this dish without the added complexity and expense.

Burgers

Burgers, once the king of backyard barbecues, have evolved from a straightforward, delicious dish into a high-end creation that demands specialty toppings and exotic flavor combinations. Gourmet burgers now include options like foie gras, kimchi, and truffle aioli, adding layers of complexity that detract from the simplicity of a burger.

Pancakes

Pancakes are a classic breakfast favorite, known for their simplicity. The traditional recipe calls for just a few ingredients: flour, eggs, milk, and baking powder. Yet in the era of food blogs and Instagram, pancakes have become extravagant meals with unique toppings, flavor infusions, and even intricate layering techniques.

Oatmeal

Oatmeal has always been a simple, nutritious breakfast option that requires only oats, water, and a bit of flavoring. But in recent years, trendy oatmeal bowls have emerged, featuring superfoods like chia seeds, goji berries, and matcha powder, along with exotic fruits and intricate flavor combinations.

Pizza

Pizza, one of the world’s most beloved comfort foods, has evolved from a quick, weeknight meal to a complex project requiring artisanal techniques and specialty ingredients. The traditional homemade pizza was simple: dough, sauce, cheese, and toppings. Today’s pizza recipes call for sourdough crusts, wood-fired ovens, and exotic toppings like smoked salmon or burrata cheese.

Conclusion

The trend of overcomplicating simple meals has created a culinary landscape that often feels more overwhelming than enjoyable. While there’s certainly room for creativity in the kitchen, it’s important to remember that many of these beloved dishes became popular in the first place because of their simplicity and ease of preparation.

By embracing the roots of these meals, home cooks can enjoy the satisfaction of cooking without the pressure to incorporate every trendy ingredient or technique.