So I was thinking about that ELI5 about how slow cooking trends spread, and it’s kind of captivating how it works with somthing so traditionally… slow. like, you’d think instant gratification would rule the internet, but then everyone’s suddenly obsessed with birria tacos made low and slow for eight hours. I guess part of it is the visual appeal – those braised meats just look amazing on camera.
It truly seems like a lot of it comes down to influencers and food bloggers showcasing a unique or seemingly “authentic” recipe. Maybe they put a spin on an old classic, or maybe they share a family recipe with a compelling story. Then, people try it, share their own results (frequently enough with great photos!), and suddenly it’s everywhere.The ease of sharing recipes and photos online definitely accelerates the process compared to how things spread before the internet.What I’m really curious about is how some trends stick around longer than others. Is it just deliciousness, or are there other factors at play? Like, something relatively foolproof gains popularity, and then builds momentum even further by its simple nature? Do particular seasons heavily influence a trend’s longevity? If so, which seasonal recipes typically explode in the general population? Do particular cuts of meat, for example chuck roast in pot roast, typically influence slow cooker popularity?