evilbeefchan

I developed a fear of Durian as a kid before I ever had a taste of it. The unfamiliar smell (definitely unappetizing for an American 8 year old) kept me away from even thinking about trying it. But I wanted to be like my dad and uncles, so I trained my palate. Having ice cream and candy versions introduced me to the funkyness, then having the real thing my first time in Malaysia won me over. Durian is one of those foods that I love to eat because of the flavors and textures, but also because it grosses other people out.

Recently I've begun to appreciate (or tolerate) bitter melon. When my parents would cook it, it was usually in a quick stir fry with fish or chicken, and the bitterness just overwhelmed everything. I like it in dishes where there's stronger flavors going on, like curries or something with lots of spice and peppers. If someone has a recommended bitter melon dish, I'd love to try it!

Got used to lamb and goat from my dad's curries. Buche, Lengua, Cabeza, Tripas, all from a late night run to a taco truck. Blood from a rice porridge dish at dim sum. Raw Uni, oysters and fish liver at a local sushi place. I love these foods now because of the experiences associated with them. Now that I've been proven wrong so many times about my food prejudices, I really will eat anything now. It helps having parents who are very open minded about food and love to cook.