Black Garlic Named 2027 Flavour of the Year: Here’s Why

Black garlic has claimed the No. 1 spot on MorganMyers’ list of the Top 10 Flavour Trends for 2027, earning the title of 2027 Flavour of the Year.

Published in October 2026, the report from the US food and agriculture marketing agency highlights ten emerging flavours expected to gain attention. Black garlic topped the list, with research revealing that 50% of surveyed US consumers were interested in trying it in 2027.

For anyone who already enjoys black garlic, the announcement may come as no surprise. For those who have never tasted it, this could be the perfect introduction. So what makes black garlic special, and how can you use it at home?

Why Was Black Garlic Named Flavour of the Year?

For years, black garlic was a little-known ingredient. Most people had never heard of it, let alone tasted it. Today, it's gaining attention from chefs, food lovers and home cooks around the world.

At Empathy Herbal, we've been sharing our passion for black garlic for years. We've seen firsthand how people's curiosity turns into appreciation once they discover its unique flavour. So, seeing black garlic take the No. 1 spot on MorganMyers' Top 10 Flavour Trends for 2027 is particularly exciting for us.

 

But what makes black garlic stand out?

According to MorganMyers, its appeal comes from something quite special. Black garlic offers an adventurous new flavour from an ingredient people already know. Its naturally sweet, mellow taste and rich umami character make it surprisingly versatile, adding depth to everything from sauces and marinades to everyday home cooking.

Consumer interest is also growing. MorganMyers' research found that 50% of surveyed US consumers were interested in trying black garlic in 2027.

For us, this recognition is more than another food trend. It's wonderful to see an ingredient we've believed in for so long receiving the attention it deserves. And we're excited that more people are discovering just how delicious black garlic can be.

What Makes Black Garlic So Special?

Black garlic starts as ordinary garlic. Through a carefully controlled ageing process using heat and humidity, the cloves gradually turn dark, develop a soft texture and become naturally sweet.

Unlike fresh garlic, which has a sharp, pungent bite, black garlic offers a mellow, complex flavour. Its taste is often compared to balsamic vinegar, caramel and molasses, with a rich savoury depth known as umami.

It's also surprisingly easy to enjoy. You can eat a peeled clove straight from the jar, spread it onto toast or mix it into your favourite recipes.

Curious about how it's made? Explore our guide to making black garlic.

5 Easy Ways to Use Black Garlic in Everyday Cooking

You do not need restaurant skills or a complicated recipe. A little black garlic can make everyday food more interesting.

1. Make black garlic butter. Mash a few cloves into softened butter with fresh herbs. Add a little to warm vegetables, mushrooms or toast.
2. Blend a salad dressing. Whisk mashed black garlic with olive oil, lemon juice and a touch of mustard for a smooth, savoury dressing.
3. Stir it into pasta sauce. Mix black garlic puree into a tomato or mushroom sauce near the end of cooking for extra depth.
4. Spread it on toast. Spread black garlic puree onto toasted sourdough, perhaps with avocado, tomatoes or a little cheese.
5. Add it to a marinade. Combine black garlic with olive oil, herbs and your favourite seasonings for vegetables, tofu, chicken or other proteins.

For a recipe to try, see our Black Garlic Herb Butter or Black Garlic Marinade for Chicken. Or check out all our Black Garlic Recipes.

From Food Trend to Everyday Favourite

One of the most interesting findings in the MorganMyers report is that curiosity does not always become habit. Among surveyed consumers, 92% said they were likely to buy a new flavour again after a positive experience. Yet only 11% of household grocery decision-makers said newer flavours had become everyday staples at home.

That is a useful reminder. Trying a new ingredient is only the first step. Knowing what to do with it, enjoying the result and finding easy ways to use it again are what make it part of regular cooking.

Black garlic has an advantage here. You can add it to foods you already enjoy rather than learning an entirely new style of cooking. A simple butter, dressing or toast is often a good place to start.

Black Garlic Journey: Passion, Research & Product Development

At Empathy Herbal, we've spent years exploring ways to make black garlic easier to enjoy in everyday meals. Our range includes peeled black garlic cloves, black garlic purée and black garlic oil, with more exciting products to come.

Since 2022, we've been collaborating with the University of Queensland (UQ) to better understand black garlic, improve product quality and explore new food applications. In April 2024, UQ featured our black garlic research collaboration, highlighting the ingredient's potential and our shared interest in bringing black garlic to more Australian kitchens.

Our research and product development continue today, reflecting our long-term commitment to this remarkable ingredient.

Discover Black Garlic for Yourself

Being named the 2027 Flavour of the Year is exciting recognition for black garlic. More importantly, it may encourage people to discover just how easy and delicious it can be.

Start with a peeled clove, stir a little purée through a favourite sauce, or make a batch of black garlic butter. You might find that this emerging flavour already deserves a place in your kitchen.

Explore the Empathy Herbal Black Garlic Range and find your favourite way to enjoy it.