What makes food good?

This might seem like a silly question- but it can actually be quite complex. If you read my blog last week, I hope food satisfaction has been on your mind. This answer to this question is personal and different for everyone. The answer is also quite delicious!

I have enjoyed few things more than learning what makes food satisfying for me!

Taste, texture, temperature, flavors, complexity, smell, appearance, color (try eating a rainbow everyday!), savoriness (there is actually a spice called savory!), environment, bitterness, spiciness, sweetness and quality are some of the factors that influence satisfaction….the list could go on ad infinitum.

For my husband, having all of the components of a meal is most important. If we are having a big family breakfast on the weekend, he wants bacon, eggs, toast, milk AND OJ. If he realizes we are out of OJ in the middle of cooking breakfast, he will actually go to the store to get it. If something is missing when he sits down to eat, like toast, he will stop eating to make it. For me, temperature is too important. I would never wait to eat my food because it will get cold!  

What I’ve learned for myself, the quality of the food is most important. This is key in not only satisfaction but also nourishment. For now, let’s stick to satisfaction:) When I experienced 100% grass fed beef from KooKoolan farms, or the pasture raised chickens from Croakers Crossing, I realized what a tremendous difference the way a food is grown or raised and produced makes. When I made bone broth from these chickens, I was blown away. It was a brilliant color and tasted fantastic. Ever revel in how much better fruit tastes when its in season, local and fresh from the farmers market? Or picked from your own garden? Berries picked from the vine are like little flavor explosions. Mouth watering yet?! *Be sure to scroll all the way down for a special deal for my readers from Croakers crossing!

The time of year influences palettes as well. I want warm curry, soup, and stew in a big bowl, fall, winter and even spring (it’s still often cold in the spring in Portland). Most of the year, I’m all about warm comfort foods. But, in summer, I want lighter foods, like fresh fruits and veggies. Crispy salad, food on the grill and finger foods that can be eaten outside. Luckily summer is coming!

Now that MY mouth is watering, I’m ready for lunch, so time to wrap it up. This week, I challenge you to write out the things that make food more enjoyable for you. Then make a list of foods that are satisfying in those ways. Incorporate it into your menu planning and make it a priority eat something you will truly enjoy everyday.

 *Croakers Crossing Farm is offering a special-for new customers- buy 2 Pasture Raised Chickens and you will get a dozen free pasture raised Duck Eggs ($8 value)! To order- visit their website and note COACH TIFFANY in the order. Special ends May 31st. https://www.croakerscrossing.com/

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