Survey: You're the dinner guests

[Gail]

Time for a little brain-picking. I need YOU to assume the roles of dinner guests.

Picture this if you will: you've been invited to dine in the home of friends you know reasonably well. Besides being beautiful, charming, witty and above all modest (did I forget to mention that I am your hostess?) your hostess has a penchant for turning out some moderately unusual dishes-- nothing exotic like bugs or pickled eel, mind you-- nor will I expect you to wolf down huge plates of innards cleverly disguised in chichi sauces. Tonight's meal is simply foreign-- a cuisine you've never sampled, utterly unlike anything you've ever had before.

(And before you ask, it DOES happen to meet all of your dietary restrictions-- so don't ask if it's vegetarian, devoid of milk products, or loaded down with whatever ingredient happens to make you break out into disgusting rashes and stop breathing. This is simply food which is "different.")

Are you:

a) Furious with your hostess for putting you in this uncomfortable position?

b) Open to the experience, though a little cautious. Secretly wishing maybe I'd asked for your approval first.

c) Leaving a trail of drool at the prospect of trying something new.

d) Utterly apathetic about the entire situation.

Let me know. I'm curious what the consensus of opinion will be.

***

My apologies. Your charming hostess flaked big time by typing "ambivalent" in "d" instead of "apathetic." Did that change any answers?



[This message has been edited by Gail (edited 05-17-2001).]

[cchhbb]

Gail,

I'd probably be happy that you were offering something different. Even if you don't like one part of the meal, you can always fill up on something else.

The only time that I have gotten upset is when someone used tofu in a dish and didn't tell us until after the meal. I have an allergy to soy and ended up breaking out in hives. The dessert was great and it was difficult to believe that it had so much soy.

[lsdesign]

"C", definately C for me. Sock it to me.

[Wendy w]

Gail,
Count me in the "C" category. Not to be nosy or anything, but did you do this or plan to?

[mandarin2j]

"C" for me, too. But this poll might be skewed since we're all foodies and by virtue of that somewhat adventureous to start with!

-Amanda

[lbudis]

Absolutely "C" - my husband and I LOVE to try anything new! Just this weekend we had dinner at a Thai-French fusion restaurant - YUMMY!

[Grace]

As long as it's not totally fat and grease laden, I'm all over it! Different is good, greasy is not, no matter what the cuisine.

[lindrusso]

C!

Especially with your promise not to "expect (me) to wolf down huge plates of innards cleverly disguised in chichi sauces." THAT would make me mad! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/biggrin.gif

So, when are you cooking for us, you beautiful, charming, witty and above all modest hostess? http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/wink.gif

[aggie94]

I'd also be in the "c" category, but DH would say "b." I agree with Amanda, that our answers are going to be skewed. You mentioned that you know these people reasonably well -- are they adventurous and open-minded to new things? DH is not, and our friends generally know that. If so, go for it. If not, I'd hesitate and stick with something a little more traditional.

[Gina O]

Interestingly, the situation you describe is exactly how I was introduced to CL magazine. My SO and I were invited to dine at the home of good friends. Although new friends, we had been out to dinner with them several times; this was our first experience in their home.

I of course was "C" all the way. I knew from our conversations that our host was an excellent cook and as obsessed with food as I. The meal was fabulous, but different from what I would normally prepare, and as I complimented him on the food he told me about CL magazine. I have been a faithful reader ever since!

My SO, on the other hand is learning, but is more hesitant. He was a bit taken back by the situation at the time, but that was two years ago and has since broadened his culinary horizons a great deal. Gina

[mightyh]

I'm all for "c"--I love new experiences, especially when it comes to food. My dh is a "c" also... We both generally like most things and are always up for a new culinary adventure.

We moved to a new city about a year ago and most of the people we meet here are As, sadly. I rarely entertain, though I'd like to, cause I don't feel like making chicken parm with canned green beans as a side which is the standard for company dinners here. :/

So if I were trying to do what you're asking, I'd probably send out invitations in the theme of the party food and let folks weed themselves out accordingly. Rather than hear them complain cause they thought ethnic meant chicken fried rice.

[This message has been edited by mightyh (edited 05-16-2001).]

[Gail]

In answer to the question, I can't say I have anything planned on the near horizon, per se. It's just that I DO wonder sometimes whether the guests are being polite, then go away muttering all the way home. I am not a person who runs a prospective menu by my guests prior to eating, although I WILL inquire as to allergies or aversions, then I take it from there. Yet, I'm left wondering about that person who'd never tried crawfish until coming to my home-- was he being gracious or was he secretly p***ed at me (my asterisks, not Maelynn's.) So, I thought I'd ask, as long as I have this big group at my disposal.

Okay?

Judging from some of the answers I've read over the past year, no, I honestly DON'T expect skewed results. I think that as in life, you folks are pretty much a cross section of the people out there-- simply that you prefer cooking the dishes, rather than eating them.

[Denise]

Boy - I guess I'm the odd man out! I would have to say "B". I love trying new stuff, but a warning would be nice, just so I can prepare myself. I don't expect you to get approval, but I do like to know what I'm getting into. Besides, how else will I know the perfect wine to bring?

[Grace]

I don't know, Gail, it seems to me we (here on the BB) aren't all that representative of the "general" population. My husband and I just went out to eat at a German restaurant in Madison weekend before last, and the other couple we brought with us were actually FRIGHTENED of the menu, and wanted to know if they had any "normal" food....what is "normal" food??? Needless to say, they both ate chicken sandwiches, and wouldn't even touch a bite of either my sauerbraten or my husband's schnitzel. I ate a huge bowl of herring as an appetizer (actually, I sort of shared it with my hubby!), but they had never had herring in their lives, and they refused to try it. Absolutely refused. In my experience, this mindset is a pretty typical, in that I know LOTS of people like that, and most people think I cook and eat "weird" food. That's why I like this board so much. I found a group of like minded people who love all different kinds of food. I can't tell you how many things this board has turned me on to, that I hadn't discovered yet.

But I imagine if these people are your friends, you have probably chosen them as friends because of your similar interests, etc., and they are more than likely adventurous eaters like you are!

A funny story - we were invited by our new next door neighbors last year to Ravinia (which is an outdoor music theatre - you "picnic" on the lawn while you listen to the show). Anyhow, I brought Roasted Red Pepper dip, Thai Shrimp Dip, Spinach Feta Dip with cut up fresh veggies, and whole bunch of other stuff. The husband was eating up our food like crazy, when his wife said, "Honey, here, you have to eat a sandwich, you can't just eat appetizers all night", and proceeded to give him a bologna sandwich on WHITE BREAD! Like that was a nutritious dinner! And this woman is a pediatrician! I told my Mom the story but I whispered the part about the white bread because our houses are close together and I thought they might hear me. My Mom laughed uproariously, like "No! They eat WHITE bread?!! HORRORS!! I wouldn't associate with them either!!" And then I realized how that sounded, but well, ok. I admit I'm a food snob.

Anyway, sorry to be long winded...

Don't forget me when you send out the invites! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/biggrin.gif

[Wendy w]

I'm like Gail where I do ask my potential guests about any food allergies or aversions, etc. but I do not consult them about the menu.

One time, many, many,years ago,an old boyfriend, who was an excellent cook invited some people over and made a wonderful cioppino.

Alas, the people did not eat fish and had to make do with the salad and bread. One would have gotten the impression that we had served
cleverly disguised innards. That is why I now ask.

mightyh, you sound like a good candidate for a CL dinner club.

Grace, your stories are hilarious!!

[This message has been edited by Wendy w (edited 05-16-2001).]

[Lynn B]

Fun thread, Gail! Thanks!
DH and I are definitely "c" folks, too! mmmm, mmmm! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif
Lynn

[aggie94]

I'd like to believe that most people would leave your house appreciative of the experience, whether it ended up being something they liked or disliked, rather than muttering and cursing you. http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif

The reason I believe the answers here might be skewed is this: people who enjoy food, whether it be cooking or eating, enjoy the aspects of food that are often overlooked, like the variety, the creativity, the presentation, preparation, etc.

I'll use DH as another example. He doesn't like the concept of eating. In other words, if he could sustain himself without having to eat, he would. Along those same lines, if he could get all his nutritional requirements and not be hungry by having a big shake (or something else easy) once a day, he would. He doesn't like the act or "hassle" of eating, nor does he appreciate the TASTE of most foods. For him, food is something his body needs. For me, and maybe for most of us on this board, food is more than that -- if it doesn't taste good, it's not worth eating, IMO.

[kwormann]

DEFINATELY C!!!! I LOVE to try new foods/cuisines! My friends only try new things if I drag them along, then they are greatful I did! Other people I know whould definately fall into the FRIGHTENED category....I cant get my mom to TRY Indian food!

Kim http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/biggrin.gif

[This message has been edited by kwormann (edited 05-16-2001).]

[Mamasue]

First of all, if my hostess was beautiful, witty and charming, such as you sweet Gail, http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/biggrin.gif then I know that she would not feel bad if I was honest,if asked, about the food she prepared before me. I would answer "C" because I am always willing to try something new and different. But this doesn't mean that I would like it. http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/biggrin.gif So you better make sure that your dessert is going to be a whopper and would make up for my honesty.

[jazzcat]

Gail, You've said that the menu does meet certain restrictions. I'd still have to say "B". I love to try new things, but I must have been traumatized somehow with food in another life because I'd still be nervous and excited at the same time. Although, knowing my restrictions, should trust you!

Secrectly, I think this stems from my Dad telling me I was eating one thing and really eating something quite different. Obviously I didn't like it at all. He never told me what it was.

[Jewel]

Oh I am such a 'B'!!! I'm almost embarrassed to say it, but I'm a B.

I grew up in a home that had Meatloaf Monday and Taco Tuesday. Very little 'variety' in our foods. Because of that I had total Tunnel Vision regarding new things, and I actually feared eating something different! What if it made me sick, what if I had to spit it out in front of someone? I remember eating at friend's homes when I was a kid and completely freaking when I saw that her Mom was cooking Brussel Sprouts or Fish.

Keep in mind I didn't even begin to TRY vegetables until age 32 or 33, and now at 38 I'm still a total virgin on most foreign foods. I'm open to try, but I'm still very cautious about it, and still have that little quirk that I was raised with!

[rinsav]

I'm with Jewel and the few other "b"'s. I wish I could answer "c" but, unfortunately, I was raised without much exposure to different foods and I think that definitely affected me. My boyfriend is definitely a "b" too. We're just not very adventurous. We try to be sometimes but there are many foods that we don't like (seafood, many vegetables -- it's a little embarrassing to admit this http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/redface.gif).

Anyway, I applaud all you "c"s. I wish I could be more like you!

[Luiza]

Schitzel exotic http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/eek.gif Ok, I think I have to revise my view on conservative food habits... I mean, why can you eat chicken nuggets but not schitzel?!?

I'm definitely a c, so is my SO, and many of our friends. Which is a good thing, because everybody comes from a different country, and we'll never be able to go to dinner together if we didn't like to try new foods.

For parties I do ask for allergies and other assorted preferences, but I do not show the menu in advance. The food is usually gone before I get to taste it. It does occasionally happen that people are not specific enough with their likes and dislikes, and they end up finding not much they can eat. Then I have fascinating conversations like "Sorry, but I thought you told me you are vegetarian and anything with vegetables is fine with you." "Well, yes, but I couldn't imagine you'll be serving brussel sprouts, beet salad, and roasted onions!" At that point I take a deep breath, pull out some fruits and icecream, and promise to do better next time. And people always came back, so it couldn't have been too traumatic.

I do have to admit that if I go to somebody else's place I _will_ eat a fair amount of food and compliment the host even if I don't like it. But the reason I don't like it has to do more with improper preparation (scorched milk is out!) or bland food than ethnic origin. In Eastern Europe it's horribly impolite not to eat food that's offered to you -- I guess that philosophy could traumatize you for life, or open you to all kinds of new experiences! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/biggrin.gif

[SandyM]

I'm definitely a "C", but there are just a few minor caveats - no organ meat, no frogs legs (tastes like chicken my hiney), no fish with eyeballs, and no shredded coconut. (It's a texture thing.) Other than that, I would trust the beautiful, charming, witty, and mildly off-the-wall Gail to present a lovely meal with stimulating conversation.

I was raised on a farm, where beef, chicken or pork, potatoes (usually fried in a pound of butter) and vegetables were the mainstay. Hardly varied from the norm. Now that I'm an adult, I love trying new things without thinking twice.

When, Gail? http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/biggrin.gif

[maizeyoats]

I vote for C definitely!
For dessert you should have 2 options something light for the fraidy-cats and something very decadent for the rest of us to pig out on (just in case we had room for anything else).

[JHolcomb]

C. Without a doubt. I find trying new foods to be an adventure, though sometimes a bit scary. Like riding on a rollercoaster, really. Sounds silly, but I get a big adrenaline rush right before I try something totally bizarre. I remember the first time I had escargot. Everyone else was refusing to taste it, but I knew that I had to do it. I got that big rush and I had to do it. I ended up eating everyone's because I was the only one who tried it-and I liked it.

When I was in Paris I met a woman who was from Taiwan. She was awesome and took me to a Chinese restaurant where she informed me that she was going to order and that I had to at least taste everything that was brought to the table. Which I did. Let me just say that I do not reccommend duck tounge. I won't go into the specifics about how one eats a duck tounge, but eww. Still, I am very glad that I tasted it, if for no other reason than to say that I have eaten it. Anyway, I guess I was raised to eat everything that was offered to you-it really upset my grandma if you didn't. And no wonder-the woman got up at 5 to cook lunch. What an extrodinary effort.

My husband is probably a B. He does really like to try new types of food-he loves Thai because it's the only type of restaurant that will serve him food that's really hot. But with some things I think he's thinking that he would have liked a warning.

[KValley]

Having lived in places as diverse as Japan, France, Central Africa (Chad) and Appalachia, I have learned to be a C - the alternative was to go hungry or deeply offend my hosts. I have eaten things not quite or barely dead which were still moving on the plate, foods I will never be able to identify and don't care to, food that left me with organisms in my belly that only a doctor and massive amounts of drugs could remove.

Having said that, I am willing to try anything once, maybe twice if there is wine involved. Life's too short to be wimpy! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/biggrin.gif Everyone should have a good case of amoebas just once... NOT

And I'd have to respectfully disagree that we represent most folk in our great land. This is a pretty health-conscious set of foodies. If most US Americans (not speaking for our Canadian friends) were as aware of and engaged in their diet as this group is, we'd have one heck of a healthy, happy nation. Let's form our own country -BBLAND!

[This message has been edited by KValley (edited 05-16-2001).]

[Luiza]

Originally posted by KValley:
Let's form our own country -BBLAND!

KValley, I think I have been staring too long at a monitor today. When I first read your message, BBLAND registered as BE-BLAND, and I had to read your message again because I knew that couldn't possibly be what you were saying! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/biggrin.gif http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/biggrin.gif


[This message has been edited by Luiza (edited 05-16-2001).]

[jliah]

Definitely C!!!

[foodiedelite]

Chalk up another "C". We love to try different foods and restaurants off the beaten track.

For entertaining, we know the tastes and dislikes of our close friends, so plan accordingly.

I try to make my dinner parties an escape from the usual. We love to travel, so frequently will have a French Night, Greek Night, etc., and try to pull our guests into our world for the evening. We only do this for our "C" friends--for the others that we share non-food interests with it's pizza night or we meet them at their favorite "chain restaurant which features quanity."

Fortunately, most of our friends are foodies!

[schuh]

Count me in as a "C" although I have a few food hangups. I don't like raisins in baked goods, for one. And I don't like cilantro, but can take in in small doses.

Unfortunately, my husband is a B or D.

I'd NEVER expect a hostess to warn me about food she was serving! I'm always delighted when someone makes the effort to entertain. It seems to happen so rarely these days (unless someone is trying to sell you something).

[masimmons]

I vote for "c." I love trying new things and doing so at a friends house would be especially nice. My SO, however, would hate this. He is very picky and while he will try new things up to a point, is very suspicious of anything he isn't familiar with.

[Vanessa]

Hola Gail! Great idea...so are you cooking for ALL of us? Just kidding. Since you know about my allergies I will go with C. My DH probably too.
I think guests should be open to new ideas and options. besides inquiring about vegetarian and allergy I don't tell my guests about the menus (I will surprise them ? http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gifI have been brave at times to try with VERY good friends something new from a magazine. I have been lucky so far but a couple of times some things did not get great ratings...but nobody went hungry.Now if we have friends who are picky eaters I will go with something they will eat most likely. But..at times I will throw caution to the wind I figure if someone does not like something when being a guest they can always eat other things being served.


[This message has been edited by Vanessa (edited 05-16-2001).]

[toothmom]

My DH and I are total C's. We are the ones who usually get others to try something new. Try it once, see what you like and then maybe again a couple of months later to see how things are anfd to try new menu items as well. I'm up for anything!!!!!!! Wellll, just about.

[elnant]

I'd have to say I'm a "C" all the way!
When you grow up with a father who makes foods like blood sausage, head cheese, and a cold "salad" made with beets, pickles, herring, eggs and meat (it's pretty freaky looking -- turns out pink!) -- you have to be an adventurous eater!!
And after all, if you don't try it, you'll never know if you like it!

[SusanL]

Mostly a C for me, but not DH! Too much fat or certain animals-thinking Bambi or Thumper are out! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/eek.gif
This thread REALLY cracked me up!! Too many funny stories! My father always says that when he comes to my house, he will get something strange to eat- ex. Psycho Chicken!! Both my parents were afraid to eat it, I had to show them the recipe first, even though the aroma made them drool...



[This message has been edited by SusanL (edited 05-17-2001).]

[donleyk]

I have really enjoyed this thread! I am a "B" sadly. In my defense, I would eat what was offered because I would never offend my hostess. And truly, there's not much I won't eat. My DH is definately a "C". We have friends that are not adventureous at all. Some that require only fried foods (!) so we stopped a long time ago trying new things in a group setting.

Not long ago I sprung an eggplant dish on (other) friends. THAT was going out on a limb! Too sad! They did enjoy it and asked for the recipe. So there is hope!

[slknight]

Originally posted by Jewel:
Oh I am such a 'B'!!! I'm almost embarrassed to say it, but I'm a B.

I grew up in a home that had Meatloaf Monday and Taco Tuesday. Very little 'variety' in our foods. Because of that I had total Tunnel Vision regarding new things, and I actually feared eating something different! What if it made me sick, what if I had to spit it out in front of someone? I remember eating at friend's homes when I was a kid and completely freaking when I saw that her Mom was cooking Brussel Sprouts or Fish.

Keep in mind I didn't even begin to TRY vegetables until age 32 or 33, and now at 38 I'm still a total virgin on most foreign foods. I'm open to try, but I'm still very cautious about it, and still have that little quirk that I was raised with!

Jewel - I think you must be my long-lost twin! I could have written this.

I showed my husband this question, and he humored me by agreeing that I was a "B." However, not that long ago I probably would have been an "A." I am making a lot of progress. I'm 31, and still don't eat most vegetables or any fish or seafood. But I am expanding my horizons, and have recently discovered a love for many foods that I would not even have tried five years ago. I'd have to say that our CL Supper Club has been largely responsible for changing my opinions and attitudes on a lot of things. Who would have thought that I'd try (and actually like) the Curried Pear and Squash soup?

So, as a reformed "A," I'd have to say I'm a solid "B." I am hoping to one day join the rest of you who are a "C."

-Susan

[MelissaAS]

Okay, I'll admit it- I wish I was a C, I pretend to be a C, I even hope someday to really in my heart be a C, but I'm a B!! More because I'm a control freak and like to know what's coming than because I don't like almost every food I've tried! Fun thread!

[LGBurns]

I am definitely a C and so is my husband. However, I have to agree with those who say that we are not "typical." Our very good friends (in fact we share a two-flat with them) are pretty picky eaters. Although, they do like some ethnic food I would guess they would be B's--and even if you knew their allergies you would have to have a long questionnaire to find out all the things they don't like to eat (I have a copy hanging on my fridge http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/wink.gif ). But the flip side is that when I do make something for them they are soooooooooo appreciative and very vocal about how good it is. And they often come up the stairs and knock on our door to ask what I'm cooking because "it smells so good." I've managed to even serve them a few things they say they don't like (like mushrooms--how do you cook without mushrooms!) and they really enjoyed it. Okay, long-winded response, sorry.

[GayeC]

I guess I am one of the few "dullards" here but I would have to say "B," probably in large part because I would check with guests before serving something I thought they might find exotic. My goal is for people to enjoy the meal and feel relaxed, not necessarily to have a new experience. That must be a reflection of my personality, which is not adventurous (although I did try the chocolate mousse made with tofu, which was pretty adventurous for me!). Gaye

[KathrynY]

Count me as a C. I certainly wouldn't expect you to run the dinner menu past me first, and if I had food allergies I would let you know.

After learning from past guests that butternut squash and mesclun salad greens are "exotic" foods, I either invite friends I'm certain will try new things, or stick to basic stuff (which takes some of the fun out of the whole occasion, doesn't it?).

[emilycat]

Well, I suppose this goes without saying, but I think I'm absolutely a "c."
I relish trying new things; it's inspiring, exciting, and often opens up huge doors to lots of my own experimentation. I'm a lush for knowledge, and I think discovering new cuisines qualifies as such.

[lindrusso]

Okay, I feel I must revise my answer. If you're cooking vegetarian, my answer is still C - all the way. I love to try new ethnic foods, etc.

If you're cooking meat, my answer would be B. If I eat meat, I like to control what I'm eating because I'm not at all adventurous in that area. I didn't eat ANY meat for 9 years because of my aversions, so I'd be nervous to eat meat at someone else's house because of my aversions - no veal, lamb, organ meats, duck, etc. I also have aversions to certain types of seafood - calamari, things of that nature.

Maybe I'm not as adventurous as I thought! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/eek.gif

[KLynn]

I would be somewhere between a B and C. Excited, but cautious as well...

[Julie A]

I'd be a c, but like some others, I believe my DH would be a b
This group I'm sure isn't "typical" when it comes to this topic. In my family, I'm know as being "different" when it comes to food. Oh well, they love it when I cook.

Julie

[lorilei]

Oh, I'm a definite "C" and I'm just drowning in drool over whatever you're setting out on your table... unless it smells hideous, at which point my drooling will lessen slightly, but I will still be intrigued.

You can feed me innards with chichi sauces, as long as they're not from a can http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif And you can invite my husband along for the ride; he'll eat anything right alongside me.

Remember, Gail, you're talking to the girl who just hosted a dinner party where she fed her guests FUFU and Egusi stew with stinky-headed shrimp and ground melon seeds http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif

[Leanne]

I'm a C, my DH is probably a C - but he's somewhat picky even though he's adventurous. I have friends though who won't eat anything - like one girl won't eat food that is diced - don't get me started. When there is a dinner event, we now require the 2 pickiest eaters in our group of friends to bring their own food b/c noone wants to cook for them (you really can't).

I think if someone is so picky & they're over 10 years old, they've chosen their own lot in life & will just have to deal with it.

This was not meant to sound as mean as it probably did http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/redface.gif - but really picky eaters are one of my pet peeves - mostly b/c of dealing with these 2 girls for the last how-many-ever years.

I do respect food allergies though - that's a different story. I'm also against serving brains or raw squid or something that almost noone would like - where people cringe at the thought. I also understand that everyone has something that they don't like - for me it's mushrooms, but I will eat them if someone else has made something with them.

[This message has been edited by Leanne (edited 05-17-2001).]

[chefbec]

Although I personally would say "C", I think the average person (who doesn't go nuts about food as we do) would want a little warning ahead of time.

[csmcnamara]

I'm a C. I like to try new things and I have even found out that things I thought I didn't like, I do like! I did ask 2 of my co-workers what their response would be (so as not to have skewed results) and they both responded B. One even asked if there would be a back up plan in case she really didn't like the food!

[Leanne]

I do have a funny story to add.

I have this friend who does alot of international business, and in most foreign countries (we're talking China here), it is VERY rude not to eat what is served (especially when you're trying to do business with these people!) - and he has been served some funky things.

His take on dinner is now to take whatever it is, pop it in his mouth & swallow it essentially whole, then do a shot of Saki. (He says it kills the taste of most things.)

Well, he got served a whole large beetle once as an appetizer. He popped it in his mouth (legs, head, & all), swallowed, did his shot of saki - only to look around the table & see everyone else only eating the soft part out of the back.

Live & learn...

And I have to add that I would not be able to eat most things he has had to eat. But I think they're on the excessive side of adventurous.

[lindrusso]

lorilei - you must elaborate on that dinner you mentioned! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif

Leanne - I could NEVER have a job that entailed eating beetles to be polite! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif I remember reading that Princess Di (wasn't she vegetarian?) was at a party where they were serving monkey brains, or something equally as disgusting. I'd rather give up my job or position as Princess than eat that kind of stuff!!! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/eek.gif

Also, I would hope that most hostesses would avoid springing stuff like cow's tongue or brains or REALLY uncommon things that you know would turn off most people. These may not be uncommon to some people, especially in certain parts of the country, but not many people I know eat these sorts of things these days.

[Anne]

Great topic, what a laugh. My DH and I would definitely be C. Our kids would be too with the caveat that there be something fairly plain (bread, noodles, etc) for them to fall back on, particularly if the food was spicey.

[heeter]

Sadly, I had to look up the definition of ambivalance which is "conflicting feelings about a person or thing" And while I thought I was ambivalent, I'm not, with that definition so I'm a C. I wanted to choose D for being apathetic, but having no emotion wasn't my answer either. So I guess I feel more like - it's the hosts' party and it's your choice Gail - I should be so honored to be invited!

[This message has been edited by heeter (edited 05-17-2001).]

[Leanne]

Originally posted by lindrusso:

Leanne - I could NEVER have a job that entailed eating beetles to be polite! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif I remember reading that Princess Di (wasn't she vegetarian?) was at a party where they were serving monkey brains, or something equally as disgusting. I'd rather give up my job or position as Princess than eat that kind of stuff!!! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/eek.gif

Also, I would hope that most hostesses would avoid springing stuff like cow's tongue or brains or REALLY uncommon things that you know would turn off most people. These may not be uncommon to some people, especially in certain parts of the country, but not many people I know eat these sorts of things these days.


He had to do monkey brains once too - he said to picture Raiders of the Lost Arc. ICK!!!! That was the meal when he figured out the saki trick. http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif

There's definitely a difference between serving chicken in a Thai sauce to be different compared to cow hearts in a blood sauce (which I was served once in Peru.) I had a couple of bites - but mostly filled up on salad & bread.

[makedah]

I'm unapologetically a "B". I might even teeter along the edge of "A" because I am a picky eater (although a little less so these days). I think a dinner host/ess has to be aware that not all guests are adventurous with food and plan accordingly. If I showed up at a dinner party and everything looked very unusual I would think that was bad hosting/hostessing. I would also worry that if I didn't like the food I would offend my host/ess. I say, do something far-out with one or two of the dishes so that the more feint of heart among us can enjoy ourselves, too.

Where I really go "A" is when I hear that the heads of my department like to take potential hires to a local Himalayan restaurant. I would be very angry if I showed up for a job interview and was already nervous about everything, including dinner afterward and my potential employers took me to a restaurant with nothing but "exotic" food. I don't want potential employers to think I'm a stick in the mud or a Miss Priss because I don't want Thai or Ethiopian food.

[BarbaraL]

What a great thread! I'm a "C"; husband is probably also a C. I love to try new things, especially if I don't have to cook them! If I don't know people well, I'll ask if they have allergies or don't eat certain foods (I have friends with allergies, and my dear Dad would not touch fish). It helps to "know your audience." I have some friends who are "C's" and will try anything; another group of friends who like tried and true. I tend to serve them standard food with one or two new dishes. Why knock yourself out if you're pretty sure people won't enjoy it? Plus, in high school, I had friends who wouldn't eat anything exotic or unusual (that was a long time ago; hopefully, they've expanded their horizons)!

[lorilei]

Originally posted by lindrusso:
lorilei - you must elaborate on that dinner you mentioned! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif


Well, you know me and my ethnic dinner parties. http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif

This time it was an African theme. I didn't limit myself to just one region in Africa; we did dishes from everywhere. One of the dishes was called Egusi stew -- a beef-type stew with lots of greens and thickened with ground melon seeds. The stew also called for dried, smoked shrimp, chopped finely. The shrimp stunk to high heaven, and the little eyes on the buggers grossed me out to no end. Once the stew was finished, we could barely get past the shrimp smell!

We had great time -- and the food turned out to be fascinating. I served the stew with FUFU (dumplings made with pounded cassava), Ethiopian curried cabbage and okra. We sipped homeade ginger brew and South African wine the whole night through. And we ended our meal with mango cream -- a delightful dessert that would have been perfect for a summer night.

But, man... those shrimp http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/wink.gif

[Ed]

Hi Gail,

Interesting topic.

Are you thinking of cooking up a batch of Lutefisk and inviting over a few of your friends to surprize them with?

Best of luck.

Ed

[cdm]

Im with Jewel in the B category. I am just so cautious. A friend once invited me over and she made an Indian curry dish. It smelled ok, but I know many spices go into curries, and some of them Im not too crazy about. I was sure a lady and took small bites. She is talented but it just wasnt my thing

[gobluem82]

I'm definitely a "C"; the only thing I'd be worried about is how to deal with the situation in case I didn't like something without hurting the hostess's feelings (Gail, do you have a dog I could feed under the table?) In today's Ann Landers (or is it Dear Abby?), there was a similar discussion on whether it was good manners to serve a vegetarian meal at a wedding. It was interesting, and a little disheartening, how many people thought the prospect of a veggie meal was disgusting!

[phantomcg]

I'd have to say I'm kind of in between "b" and "c". I can't say that I would "drool" over the opportunity, but I wouldn't expect you to seek my approval before hand either. I like to experience new/different foods but I'll admit to being a little nervous about it at times. DH, on the other hand, will not try anything new. When we went to Jamaica he ate hamburgers and nachos for lunch!

Cheryl

[Jacque O]

I am definitely a C as are several of my close friends. Together and for each other, we cook in a bold and adventurous way. But as a result of several disappointing events, I have stopped assuming that others are.

One example--for a Superbowl party (mixed group not just a bunch of guys expecting chili), a friend and I made about ten dips for homemade crackers, chips and fruits. These dips were incredibly good and did not contain anything really uncommon but were clearly variations from the usual themes. Most of the guests wouldn't even try them, preferring instead to eat potato chips out of the bag with cheap French onion dip straight from the plastic container. I've had similar responses from co-workers when, for a group lunch, I've brought in something that the B's in THIS group would consider totally non-threatening. Those were even more telling since the lack of response was in spite of the fact that these same co-workers would describe me as a great cook because they love the baked goods and candy that I bring to work sometimes.

So, now I save my most creative urges for groups that I know will be enthusiastic about the experience (if not the receipe). And when preparing items for a group that I didn't choose, I try to make sure I have something on the menu that even the most conservative eater is likely to tolerate and just deal with it when people pass up the most interesting and tasty items.

Jacque O

[sneezles]

I'm a C!!!!!!
I was raised in a househol very similar to Jewel's. When I was 19 I bought my first set of cookbooks (which I still refer to but don't use the recipes but it has tons of basic info). Anyway, my dad was sick in bed at the time and I would spend time with him when I got home from work at night. I showed him my new purchase and his words of wisdom have been my guiding rule ever since! They were: Don't get bogged down cooking the same thing over and over. You mother is a good cook but she was never very adventerous. Always be willing to try something new!"

When's dinner?

[Wendy w]

JacqueO, I know exactly how you feel and have had a similar situation. I have 2 types of friends: 1 group that loves food and trying new things and another (smaller)group that is somewhat limited in their food choices but they are good people in other ways.

When this group gets together, I try to make very "yeehaw" down home kind of things but sometimes I just feel that I should go buy some Cheesewiz and saltines or go buy one of those overmayonnaised potato salads from the store as it may be better received.

In the future, I will bring something like described above and something healthy for me, like a salad, which by the way, the husband will devour if I bring one! His wife is very limited in her choices (as are her children) and as a consequence, she is obese and has diabetes and is my age! One of her kids is way over weight.

One year, they had a superbowl party and they had some of this really gross melted cheese concoction for nachos. People were eating them like crazy. I had made a couple of really nice hero sandwiches with a variety of meats and cheeses. Only a few people had any of my sandwich while they swarmed the gross cheese stuff. Go figure. I don't want to be mean or anything but it is kind of like throwing pearls at swine.

[This message has been edited by Wendy w (edited 05-18-2001).]

[Natasha]

c)

When s dinner?