An unexpected culinary trend is sweeping across London, with residents embracing bizarre toppings for their favourite soups. From cornflakes on broccoli and stilton to 'flaming' hot crisps crumbled into tomato soup, social media is alight with unconventional pairings.
Data Reveals a Capital Craving Experimentation
Research commissioned by the historic food brand Crosse & Blackwell has uncovered the scale of this curious trend. More than half (52%) of Londoners surveyed expressed a desire to spice up their weekly lunches. Furthermore, a significant 40% said they would be willing to try an unconventional topping if they saw it advertised.
The data, released in January 2026, pinpointed the most popular strange combinations capturing the city's imagination. Almost a quarter (22%) of Londoners were keen on adding 'flaming' hot crisps to tomato soup, while one in four favoured salted popcorn with the same classic flavour. A quarter (25%) fancied cornflakes with broccoli and stilton soup, and a daring fifth (20%) selected chocolate to complement a mixed bean chilli soup.
From Online Searches to Soup Development
Inspired by these findings and the surge in online searches for pairings like peanut butter with chilli soup or anchovies in minestrone, Crosse & Blackwell is taking action. For National Soup Month, the brand's Soup Development Chef, Ben Jones, has formulated three official recipes based on the trend.
The recommended winter warmers are:
- Cornflake Crunch Broc & Stilton: Broccoli & Stilton soup topped with cornflakes.
- 'Flaming' Hot Tomato Soup: Cream of Tomato soup topped with 'flaming' hot crisps.
- Chocolate Mixed Bean Chilli: Mixed Bean Chilli soup topped with chocolate or cocoa powder.
Chef Ben Jones explained the culinary science behind the madness: "Cornflakes on Broccoli & Stilton might sound playful, but there's real flavour science behind it". He noted that the toasty crunch cuts through creaminess, while a hint of sweetness softens the stilton's edge. Similarly, the chilli kick from crisps boosts tomato's acidity, and cocoa powder deepens the savoury, spicy notes of a bean chilli.
The Future of Flavour Innovation
Crosse & Blackwell is not stopping at recipes. The brand is exploring the development of three new, ready-made soups featuring these obscure flavours to add to its popular range. To guide this innovation, they are calling on Londoners to try the bizarre pairings at home, share their creations on social media tagging @crosseandblackwell_uk, and vote for their favourite combo on Instagram.
This movement demonstrates a shift from novelty eating to intentional flavour pairing rooted in balance and contrast. As Londoners continue to experiment, the humble soup bowl is being transformed into a canvas for creative, and surprisingly scientific, culinary exploration.
