Spain Planning: Getting Ready to Try New Foods

Yesterday I was sitting on the couch leafing through a guidebook to Spain when E got curious and wanted to see what was inside. I ended up bringing out a book with lots of pictures and talking to him a little about the trip. We looked at a bunch of pictures of buildings by Gaudi and talked about how we’re going to look at a lot of funny buildings. We also talked a bunch about how we’re going to be trying a lot of new foods.

With a picky toddler, one of my big concerns on any trip is not creating unneeded stress for him (and me) at mealtimes when we’re travelling. I started out by describing churros and chocolate. Of course, E thought that sounded delightful. Then I told him that we’re going to get to try Paella. “Do you like Paella?” I asked. “No” he responded. Do you know what Paella is? “No.” It’s rice with peas, red peppers and green peppers (I’ll work on the shrimp and sausage later) do you like all those things? "Yes." Do you think you will try to eat Paella? "Yes"

Our little talk must have sunk in a little. At dinner tonight, E balked at what I prepared for him, asking to have Paella instead. I’ll try making some later this week & we’ll see how it goes...

Here are some other foods I’m thinking might go over well with my picky toddler:

• Calamari Frito (fried squid). I think I’ll call them “dipping o’s or flying saucers)
• Patatas Bravas (I’ll call them square French fries)
• Pan Tomat (bread rubbed with tomato and garlic & toasted)
• Empanadas (pastry with a savory filling)
• Manchego Cheese with Quince (he doesn’t normally like cheese, but perhaps the jam will convince him)
• Tortilla (more like a quiche than a Mexican tortilla)
• Croquettes

I’m sure there will be a few surprises, but I’ll have a jar of peanut butter in my suitcase just in case.

2 comments | Posted on September 17, 2007 | Save to del.icio.us

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