What do winter menus often highlight to complement their dishes?

Winter menus typically emphasize warming spices to enhance the flavors and comfort level of the dishes served. This is particularly important in colder months when the culinary focus shifts towards hearty and comforting options. Warming spices, such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, not only add depth and complexity to the flavors but also evoke a sense of warmth, which is appealing during winter.

In contrast, light sauces are generally associated with lighter, summer fare that aims for freshness rather than the rich, warm flavors that winter dishes seek to deliver. Cold appetizers are usually more prevalent in warmer seasons, focusing on light and refreshing ingredients. Meanwhile, fruit-based condiments might offer a contrast that does not align with the heavier, warming nature of winter cuisine. Therefore, warming spices are the ideal choice to complement winter menu offerings, making them more satisfying and comforting in the colder months.