That’s where one of our favorite seasonal sausages comes in! We invited Brody and Dean from Hormel Foods, to our test kitchen for a brainstorm to create easy and profitable menu items featuring Irish Bangers. Fontanini’s Irish Bangers (Item #5677). They did not disappoint! Picture golden crusts, creamy mashed potatoes, and the savory aroma of sizzling sausages–now, let the exciting possibilities of your of St. Patrick’s Day menu unfold…

Find more St. Patrick’s Day Ingredients Here

Classic Bangers & Mash

Creamy mashed potatoes topped with perfectly grilled Fontanini’s Irish Bangers. The ultimate comfort food with a St. Patrick’s Day twist. Serve piping hot with a generous ladle of onion gravy. Save time and maintain consistency with Simply Potato’s prepared mashed potato products.

Irish Banger Pizza

A fusion of holiday flavors! Start with a traditional pizza crust, slather it with rich onion gravy, and your preferred pizza cheese. Then pile on the sliced Irish banger sausages and dollops of creamy mashed potato. The finishing touch? A sprinkle of freshly chopped green onions.

Irish Banger Breakfast Sandwich

Rise and shine with this hearty breakfast sandwich. Swap out the usual meat for a butterflied Irish Banger. Top it with a perfectly fried egg, a slice of melty cheese, and an optional drizzle of onion gravy. Serve on a toasted English muffin for a holiday-morning treat. Get creative, try it on a biscuit, or in a wrap with potatoes!

Bangers in a Blanket (our favorite!)

Quick, easy, and oh-so-delectable! Wrap Irish Bangers in flaky puff pastry dough and bake until golden brown. The result? Savory bites that disappear faster than a leprechaun’s gold. Sprinkle chopped green onions over these golden parcels and serve them warm alongside a side of onion gravy.

Irish Banger Breakfast Skillet

This dish is truly a St. Patrick’s Day breakfast celebration on a plate! Sautéed peppers, onions, and crispy home-fried potatoes form the base. Crown it with slices of Irish Banger sausage and a couple of sunny-side-up eggs. Drizzle with onion gravy or serve on the side. #winning

Find More St. Patrick’s Day Inspiration

From Tyson® we added Mini Fully Cooked Breaded Whole Muscle Chicken Bites – a versatile addition to elevate your menu. Perfect for pizzas, salads, or creating unique items like a Crispy Chicken Po’boy sandwich. These super-small, whole-muscle bites offer endless possibilities, delivering the ideal balance of crispy and juicy. Move beyond traditional popcorn chicken; Tyson® Mini Chicken Bites feature premium white meat chicken breast. Position your menu as the hub for innovative, fun, and delicious offerings with Tyson® Mini Chicken Biters – exclusively satisfying your customers’ cravings! Learn more about Tyson’s Mini Chicken Bites.

From Schweid & Sons® we added the Signature Series Custom Blends of Ground Beef – a culinary masterpiece honed over four generations. Revel in the decadent, buttery flavor and delicate, airy texture meticulously crafted from the finest whole cuts of beef. The signature recipe includes a fusion of Chuck, Brisket, and Short Rib, which promises to redefine your establishment’s offerings. Hand-selected premium cuts guarantee an exquisite flavor profile that sets your dishes apart. Captivate your patrons with the exceptional taste and quality of Schweid & Sons custom blends – crafted exclusively for discerning chefs and connoisseurs alike.

From Bake Crafters we added two new individually wrapped items. Unwrap the Egg & Fiesta Cheese Croissant Sandwich for a protein-packed kick, perfect for school mornings. Transform your cafeteria into a haven of café-style excellence with Bake Crafters’ signature sandwiches. For a delightful twist, indulge in Bake Crafters’ Pancake Bites – gourmet, bite-sized perfection ideal for K-12 students. Whether paired with syrup, or powdered sugar or enjoyed on their own, these innovations cater to the unique tastes of young diners. Elevate K-12 dining with Bake Crafters’ delicious and convenient options!

From Ardent Mills® we added two distinctive flours. Rye Chops, crafted by cutting the Rye berry into small pieces, offers a unique twist – similar to cracked wheat but with enhanced moisture absorption. Ideal for enhancing the texture of bread, muffins, cookies, or adding a crunchy touch to cereal and granola, Rye Chops brings versatility to your baking creations. Elevate your recipes with a fruity and nutty flavor by incorporating these chops into muffins, bread, cookies, or even salads.

And from Hormel® the renowned Fire Braised Chicken Breast, now conveniently packaged in 5 oz. portions. Experience the perfection of fully cooked chicken breasts, initially fire-seared and then slow-cooked in their own juices. The outcome? A succulent and tender chicken breast boasting a delectable caramelized exterior, both delicious and visually appealing. Not only do these chicken breasts offer an irresistible flavor profile, but they also stand out for their quick and effortless preparation. Save time and streamline your kitchen operations with these easy-to-prepare delights from Hormel®.

New Item Details:

Item #	Description	Pack/CT	Brand
28713	FIRE BRAISED CHICKEN BREAST	24/5 OZ	HORMEL
28717	FC BREADED CHICKEN BITES	2/5 LB	TYSON
28721	HUMMER® PREMIUM HIGH GLUTEN FLOUR	1/50 LB	ARDENT MILLS
28722	RYE CHOPS FLOUR	1/50 LB	ARDENT MILLS
28726	GROUND BEEF, FRESH	4/5 LB	SCHWEID & SONS
28731	EGG & FIESTA CHEESE CROISSANT SANDWICH	100/2.5 OZ	BAKE CRAFTERS
28732	POFFITZ PANCAKE BITES	9/2 LB	BAKE CRAFTERS

Dennis Food Service delivers thousands of foodservice products and supplies to restaurants and food operations in Maine and New Hampshire. If you have a question or are interested in becoming a customer contact us or call 1-800-439-2727

This recipe combines the timeless appeal of crispy, golden-brown chicken with the unmatched tenderness of sous vide cooking, resulting in a Chicken Parmesan that delivers convenience without compromising… well, anything.

INGREDIENTS

• FLASH 180 Chicken Breast (Item #28555)
• Marinara Sauce
• Fresh Mozzarella
• Basil pesto
• Italian Bread
• Bottled Giardiniera

DIRECTIONS

Flash180 Chicken Fillets    FIND MORE RECIPES

Introducing an east way to a consistent Korean-inspired chicken sandwich; featuring a harmonious blend of tender fried chicken and vibrant traditional Korean flavors.

INGREDIENTS

• FLASH 180 Chicken Breast (Item #28555)
• Pretzel Buns
• Kimchi
• Gochujang paste
• Kewpie Mayonnaise
• Sesame Oil
• Sliced Mini Cucumbers

DIRECTIONS

Flash180 Chicken Fillets    FIND MORE RECIPES

Expedite your chicken and waffles game with Hormel’s Flash 180 Chicken. This easy-to-prep dish combines delicious, moist, lightly battered chicken with the crispy perfection of golden waffles.

INGREDIENTS

• FLASH 180 Chicken Breast
• Frozen Waffles or Waffle Batter
• Real Maple Syrup
• Toasted Pecans
• Softened Butter
• OLD SMOKEHOUSE Maple Pepper Bacon

DIRECTIONS

Flash180 Chicken Fillets    FIND MORE RECIPES

Is your chicken game ready for a new MVP?! With FLASH 180 Battered Sous Vide chicken you get easy-to-prepare, consistent chicken that helps increase productivity and profitability, without compromising flavor or value, and all in about 180 SECONDS!

SCRATCH-LIKE QUALITY
Cooked sous vide style at a precise temperature while it’s coated in a homestyle batter. This allows the batter to adhere perfectly and lock in flavor and moisture. This innovative method can save your staff time and stress while delivering your guests high-quality chicken, designed to feel handmade from the start.

MAKE IT YOUR OWN
Pre-cooked chicken doesn’t mean a predefined dish. The chicken is coated in a batter that is a great base for additional breading or spices. This revolutionary method allows for easy customization to fit your operation’s flavor and flare.

GIVE YOUR CUSTOMERS SOMETHING TO CRAVE
Finally, juicy, tender, crispy chicken that’s all about the chicken! Thanks to this in-bag homestyle batter you get a perfect batter-to-chicken ratio that delivers a satisfying flavor and crunch without the heavy, greasy breading overshadowing the chicken.

Ask your Dennis AE what they think! They’ve tried it!

FIND MORE FROM HORMEL
Download the Flash 180 Flyer     More Hormel Items

From Yoplait®, we added Simply Go-Gurt® Yogurt Single Serve Tube, Mixed Berry flavor – a delicious and convenient addition that is sure to delight both kids and adults alike. Each 2oz tube is designed for convenient portion control, making it an ideal choice for a quick and satisfying snack. Catering to various dietary preferences, Yoplait® Simply Go-Gurt is gluten-free, making them a guilt-free delight for those with gluten sensitivities. Ideal for school food programs, each serving is equivalent to .5 meat/meat alternate, and CACFP eligible, making this a smart choice for USDA Child Nutrition Programs. Add the Yoplait® Mixed Berry Simply Go-Gurt® Yogurt Single Serve Tubes today – a wholesome, flavorful, and convenient snack that checks all the right boxes.

And from Hormel®, we added Cooked Ham. This premium cooked ham boasts a delightful blend of flavors at an economical price, making it a budget-friendly choice without compromising on quality. With water added for succulence, the firm texture of the ham ensures appealing thin, whole slices that elevate any dish.  Packaged in easy-to-open vacuum-packed bags, this cooked ham minimizes mess and waste, guaranteeing convenience in every serving. Slice for sandwiches, dice for salads or soups, or use as an ingredient in any hot or cold dish. The time and labor-saving easy-to-open packages, coupled with its 95% fat-free composition, make Hormel Cook Ham an enticing addition for those seeking both culinary excellence and wellness in their meals.

New Item Details:

Dennis Food Service delivers thousands of foodservice products and supplies to restaurants and food operations in Maine and New Hampshire. If you have a question or are interested in becoming a customer contact us or call 1-800-439-2727

The National Restaurant Association’s 2023 Restaurant Show, held at McCormick Place in Chicago, Illinois, brought together over 50,000 food service professionals and restaurateurs from around the world.

This annual event showcases the latest products and innovations from global businesses to boutique brands, and is the best place to see emerging trends, and immerse yourself into the vibrant foodie culture shaping the culinary landscape. I had the privilege of attending this remarkable gathering alongside Dennis corporate chef Timothy Labonte and wanted to take the opportunity to share some of that experience.

At the heart of the show, innovation was on everyone’s mind as exhibitors unveiled their products and inventions. One of the new products we tried, which also received a FABI Innovation award this year, were McCain’s Mini Mashers. Mini Mashers are little spheres of creamy mashed potato encapsulated in a crispy coating. To put it another way, Mini Mashers are to mashed potatoes what popcorn is to chicken. Rameking’s “first in, first out” ramekin storage dispenser was one of my favorites for its clear “where have you been all my life?” function. I could hear a tray of stacked ramekins falling over in my mind as I yanked a sauce cup from the elegant Rameking solution.

We also got hands (and mouth) on Fontanini’s cup-and-char sausage; a new development achieved by tapping into the pepperoni expertise of parent company Hormel. A company by the name of FLAT showcased their impressive table-leveling technology. Their “equalizers” eliminate the need for folded napkins or coaster wedges under wobbly table legs. We watched as they gave a push or a tug to uneven tables, and they magically remained corrected. We also loved the demonstration from Vito of their unique hot oil filtration system, and the presence of a company specializing in restaurant planning using virtual reality was another indicator of the cutting-edge technologies finding their place in the industry. But not all innovations were tech-centered. One item caught my eye for its simplicity—Crayangles, triangle crayons that don’t roll off the table. As a father who has retrieved countess crayons from underneath restaurant tables, I liked these a lot.

The National Restaurant Show is also one of the best places to get a look at emerging trends in food service, providing insight to ever-evolving consumer preferences. Throughout the exhibition, it was evident that Boba (Bubble Tea) is quickly becoming a mainstream sensation. Again, as a father, I can attest that kids are taking parents out of their way to find bubble tea. And, after sampling boba from numerous vendors featuring exotic flavors, customized ingredient combinations, and even bursting “bubbles”–I can see why.

But there was a trend at the show that was seemingly everywhere: the integration of robotic and AI solutions. A presentation at one booth involved robotic griddles equipped with lasers and cameras, specifically designed for preparing burger patties. The Alpha Grill from Aniai utilizes AI algorithms to determine the optimal cooking time and temperature, ensuring consistent and perfectly cooked patties every time. Another booth featured a robotic arm that retrieved French fries from a freezer and dropped them into a fryer. And more than one vendor had “servant droids” functioning as robot waiters, whirring around their booths. These robots were capable of delivering trays of food to tables or within a facility; demonstrating a futuristic approach to service that’s not very far away. By utilizing AI algorithms, these robot waiters were able to navigate crowded spaces, recognize obstacles, and interact with customers in a polite and friendly manner. AI was also incorporated into countless software solutions demoed at the show. Solutions aimed at enhancing customer discovery, brand engagement, experience, order capture, and even employee well-being. The takeaway; AI is enabling restaurants to gain valuable insights, optimize operations, and make data-driven decisions in ways they never have before.

When it comes to foodie inspiration, the 2023 Restaurant Show presented countless culinary experiences to make mental note of. While exploring the exhibition we discovered exceptional products, flavors, and novel ideas that kept our gears turning. Among our favorites was a triple-cream artisan Greek yogurt, produced by a small family creamery and boasting a rich and velvety texture. Planet Oat unveiled a new Barista Edition of their Oat Milk which, combined with espresso from locally roasted beans, was the best cup of coffee we had at the show. I believe one highlight for Chef Tim was when the team from Savor Imports took us around their booth, sampling ingredients from across the globe. And I enjoyed sitting down with Kelly from Tyson to sample their award-winning fully-cooked, sliced pork belly. Which, like McCain’s Mini Mashers, picked up a FABI Innovation award this year. From jumbo tater-tots to Portuguese custard recipes 400 years in the making, we sampled it all. One category that has clearly grown a lot, and continues to innovate, is plant-based foods. We were pleasantly surprised (narrowly avoiding seared tongues) by an exceptionally melty vegan cheese, which further highlighted that plant-based alternatives are quickly becoming stronger rivals for their animal-based counterparts in taste and performance.

Although the category is still in its infancy, the prominence of the plant-based foods at the show reflects the increasing demand for meat-alternative and health-conscious menu options. From plant-based eggs to vegan dairy options, there were aisles seemingly dedicated to exploring the possibilities of plant-based alternatives. We experienced the flavors and textures of everything from vegan burger and chicken substitutes to ice cream and seafood alternatives. One standout was Yo Egg’s plant-based egg products, which surprised us with their uncanny resemblance to traditional eggs, including a runny yolk that left you asking “but… how?” We also enjoyed the taste and texture of a plant-based rib sandwich that closely mirrored McDonald’s intermittent McRib, but then again, just about anything would taste good with enough BBQ sauce on it.

NEW from Fontanini® Cup & Char Sliced Italian Sausage Topping

Crisp, caramelized, and craveable… Introducing the greatest innovation in pizza topping since sliced sausage! The unique cup and char appearance of Fontanini’s classic Italian sausage delivers exceptional flavor in any application. Plus, you’ll capture your guest’s attention with the unique shape, texture, and superior mild Italian flavor.

TRUSTED TASTE
The attention to detail and classic mild Italian flavor of Fontanini Sausages let you add authentic Italian craft to your menu.

PREMIUM INGREDIENTS
Made like you would, with always-fresh, never-frozen meat, coarse-ground and held for 24 hours in our signature spice blends.

UNIQUE APPEAL
Add a distinctive flair to your pies with a cutting-edge product ready to revolutionize the pizza game.

Ask your Dennis AE, they’ve tried it!

Be sure to follow Dennis for the latest foodservice innovations and new products! We’re stay engaged with the industry and foodservice manufacturers; trying new products and bringing the best back to our customers. Fontanini’s new Cup & Char Sliced Sausage is a brand new innovation from Hormel.

Related Video Chef Tim and Luke visit the Hormel booth at the 2023 National Restaurant Show