Hidden Gems: Foods I Never Thought I Would Enjoy
Introduction -
Lots of foods that we come across but never end up enjoying, and sometimes, even those that disgust us. However, as we grow and explore new flavors and cuisines, our taste buds can surprise us. In this article, I will share some foods I never thought I would eat and enjoyed over time. Let's explore these culinary surprises and the experiences that led to my love for them.
Pen!s Inside Food in Lagos Restaurant
In a recent incident, a customer in Lagos, Nigeria, found something particularly unsettling in their take-out food. The sighting of a pen!s inside a food item served in a take-away pack has certainly made headlines and sparked curiosity. While such incidents are distressing, they also remind us to be vigilant and check our food. Focusing on this unfortunate situation, let's move on to my own personal journey of discovering unexpected delights.
From Canned Peas to Anderson's Split Pea Soup
As a child, I had a strong aversion to canned peas, finding them unappetizing and mushy. Baby pea jars, with their strained contents, only added to my dislike. My preference was for fresh or frozen peas, anything to avoid that canned texture. However, my taste buds transformed over time. I came across Anderson's canned split pea soup, an unexpected comfort food for me. Despite being from a food brand, this soup had a unique appeal that captivated my taste buds. It was a perfect match with buttered sourdough garlic toast, and it became a cherished part of my diet, even in small servings each day.
The World of Chicken Claws in Hong Kong
When it comes to unconventional foods, chicken’s claws might seem gross at first glance. I had always dismissed them, but my taste buds adapted when I traveled to Hong Kong. Cantonese and Thai restaurants served these chicken claws with amazing flavors. Cantonese-style chicken claws are my personal favorite, offering a delightful blend of flavors and texture. The sourness in Thai chicken claws also adds an interesting twist. My initial repulsion melted away when I tried these dishes, and I found myself enjoying every bite.
Brussels Sprouts and Cauliflower: A Culinary Turnaround
As a child, I had a limited palette for vegetables, satisfied with just a few - lettuces, cucumbers, artichokes, and string beans. Raw carrots and celery were among the few others. It wasn't until my late 20s and early 30s that I began to appreciate cooking more. Roasting vegetables transformed how I viewed them, and Brussels sprouts and cauliflower became my new favorite. A simple seasoning of salt, pepper, and olive oil was all it took to turn me from a disinterested eater into a passionate lover of these veggies. Sage added a delightful twist, creating an even more amazing flavor. My taste buds had evolved, and I finally appreciated the exquisite, nutty taste and crunchy texture of these vegetables.
Conclusion -
Our taste buds can be highly unpredictable, and what we once thought we would never enjoy can eventually become a beloved part of our diet. These stories of unconventional foods illustrate the power of exploration and the unexpected pleasures that can arise from stepping out of our comfort zones. Whether it’s a pen!s, canned peas, or even chicken claws, we should always be open to new culinary experiences.
So next time you encounter an unfamiliar food, take a bite and you might be surprised at the delightful flavors that await. Happy eating!