Discovering New Delights: From Teriyaki Chicken to Ceviche

Have you ever stumbled upon a new dish that immediately became your all-time favorite? This journey often starts with simple curiosity, sometimes even turning into an exciting adventure. From my personal experiences to the collective memories of my community, we embark on this voyage of discovering new and delightful foods.

My Journey with Seafood

Growing up in the 70s and 80s, seafood was a mystery to me, much like seafood sticks and salmon patties that were almost laughable. My comfort food, and in fact, the dish I loved most was shrimp, consumed mostly in restaurants. I remember feeling fancy as my parents allowed me to order shrimp. Yet, my attitude towards seafood remained reserved until one fateful day in the 90s when I worked for a large seafood company.

Here, I sampled various kinds of seafood in the on-site kitchen, though my initial experience was far from appetizing. Samples seemed to morph into experiences that did not taste good. However, an encounter with caldo, a Mexican seafood soup, changed everything. I was lured into trying it out by the lady who prepared it, and I was absolutely blown away by its taste.

This marked the beginning of my seafood journey. Other discoveries, such as ceviche, continued to awe me, cementing my new love for seafood. I also became a loyal buyer, trying to replicate my favorite cuisines, and even sought approval from my colleagues to ensure my recreations met the seal of approval from the Mexican staff.

Budding with Kimchi

One of the most recent and exciting additions to my food horizons is kimchi. If you need to introduce a dish to your collection, kimchi should be your go-to. It's a Korean delicacy created by fermenting vegetables with a spicy sauce, which is not only flavorful but also incredibly healthy. Fermentation in kimchi provides prebiotics that improve gut health and add essential vitamins to your diet.

The journey with kimchi started unexpectedly during a lockdown when my grandkids and I watched the K-pop group BTS. Their 'Run Bts' show on YouTube introduced us to various Korean delights, such as dolsot bibimbap, kimbap, kimchi fried rice, pork belly, and soju (a Korean alcoholic beverage). Since then, these dishes have become a regular part of my daily diet.

A Lifelong Quest for New Flavors

My friend Amaldeii, who has been on this journey for about 70 years, reflects on her own experiences with new foods. Teriyaki chicken, a dish that caught her fancy early on, has become her go-to meal. Boiled okra, on the other hand, remains a no-no. A campfire-cooked bacon left an indelible mark, making her crave it again and again. However, her first experience with kale was so unpleasant that she now avoids it, likening it to sewer-scum.

Amaldeii’s cautionary tales underscore the importance of exploring new foods with an open but informed mind. While it's acceptable to make pre-judgments based on reputation, it's crucial not to dismiss something new without trying it. This approach allows for a richer and more diverse culinary experience. Even seemingly dangerous foods like the Carolina Reaper pepper or kale can be approached with curiosity and care.

Remember, food is not just about sustenance; it's an adventure. Embrace it with an open heart and a curious mind, and you might discover your new favorite dish today!

Happy exploring!