Anyone with kids knows that it can be very challenging to find ways of breaking menu habits, I recommend using every underhanded trick imaginable, it’s for a good cause after all.
Fine Chopping
Probably the oldest trick in the book, chopping things up really small, or even pureeing if necessary, can sometimes be one of the only ways to get kids eating “strange” vegetables, even in small amounts, ingredients like roasted eggplant, squash or turnips can easily be camouflaged by giving them a quick blitz in the food processor, especially in spaghetti sauce, they’ll never suspect a thing.
Numb Them With Netflix
… or Disney+, or any show for that matter. If the homework is done and it’s a slow night at the kitchen table, let them pick a show to start things off, then slide a plate of mixed foods under their nose, some they already like, and also something new, preferably slathered in melty cheese to help. Being in a cartoon coma may just lead to discovery of a new favourite food.
Bribe Them
Yeah I said it, make a deal with them straight up, try these 4 new things, but really try them, and they can have a new app or a small bonus in the weekly allowance, it doesn’t always pay off, but when you hit big it can be life-altering. Best to tackle the tough ones with this last-ditch effort though, such as mildly spicy foods, anything pickled, and especially those weird gamey ingredients like duck or bison. Who knows, there could be a new favourite in the mix!
About me: My name is Paul Thibault, an impulsive home chef developing delicious gluten free recipes for family and friends regardless of their allergen restrictions or dietary limitations, visit the About Page to learn more.