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How to Enjoy Thanksgiving with Your Picky Eater

Thanksgiving is a time for family, gratitude, and of course, food. But if you have a picky eater in your midst, the prospect of a traditional feast can feel daunting. Between glossy magazine spreads featuring elaborate turkeys and side dishes, it’s easy to worry that your special dinner will turn into a battlefield of “I don’t like this” and “I won’t eat that.” However, with a little preparation and creativity, it is entirely possible to enjoy a harmonious Thanksgiving with your fussy friend or family member. Here are some tips to help you navigate the holiday season with ease.

1. Involve Them in the Planning

One of the best ways to cater to a picky eater is to involve them in the menu planning. Take some time before the big day to sit down together and discuss their favourite foods and any preferences they may have. By giving them a voice in the process, you’ll not only ensure that there are dishes they’ll enjoy, but you’ll also make them feel valued and included.

2. Offer Variety

While it’s essential to have traditional Thanksgiving staples like turkey and stuffing, consider offering a variety of dishes. Include options that are less common but equally festive, such as a simple pasta dish, grilled vegetables, or even a salad that allows for customization. The more variety on the table, the higher the chances of finding something that appeals to your picky eater.

3. Create a ‘Safe Plate’

For children or adults who are particularly selective about what they eat, creating a ‘safe plate’ can be a practical solution. This could involve serving a few items that are guaranteed to please, such as mashed potatoes, plain turkey slices, or even a selection of simple snacks. Offering a ‘safe plate’ provides them with something they like while still allowing them to partake in the experience of a family meal.

4. Make It Fun

Thanksgiving can be an opportunity to have fun with food! Encourage your picky eater to get creative by allowing them to decorate their plate or try unique combinations of foods. You could set up a “build-your-own” station for things like sandwiches or even a deconstructed version of the traditional meal, where everyone can assemble their own plate.

5. Keep Flavours Familiar

When planning your dishes, keep the flavours familiar and avoid overly exotic ingredients. A plainly roasted turkey, for instance, might be more appealing than one steeped in a complex spice rub. Similarly, consider simple side dishes that are not overloaded with unusual flavours. Remember, comfort is key for a picky eater, so aim for familiar over fancy.

6. Prepare a Tasting Plate

If your picky eater is willing, consider preparing a tasting plate with small portions of various dishes. This allows them to sample without feeling overwhelmed by a full portion. They may discover a new favourite item and, who knows, this could be the year something new is added to their palate!

7. Offer Alternative Traditions

Not every Thanksgiving celebration needs to revolve around the traditional turkey dinner. If your picky eater has particular tastes, consider adapting the meal to fit those preferences. This could mean substituting turkey with a favourite dish, having a buffet-style meal, or even celebrating with a different cuisine altogether.

8. Focus on the Experience

Remember that Thanksgiving is not just about the food; it’s about being together with loved ones. Encourage conversations about memories, gratitude, and the things that make each other smile. Fostering a positive atmosphere can help alleviate the tension that sometimes arises around food.

Conclusion

Navigating Thanksgiving with a picky eater can certainly present its challenges, but it doesn’t have to dampen the festive spirit. By involving them in the process, offering a variety of dishes, and creating an inclusive environment, you can ensure that everyone leaves the table happy. Enjoy the holiday season, and remember that it’s the people at the table that truly matter, not just the food on the plate. Happy Thanksgiving!

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