How do you handle picky eaters when testing recipes?

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Discussion Overview

The thread explores personal experiences and strategies for handling picky eaters while testing recipes, particularly focusing on the Lemon Herb Chicken Ring. Participants share their cooking experiences, preferences, and thoughts on reheating methods.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant, identifying as a consultant, shared that their family found the Lemon Herb Chicken Ring "too lemony" and suggested it might be better with biscuits instead of croissants.
  • Another participant mentioned that the rings do not reheat well, noting that the bread can become chewy or soggy.
  • One user expressed their enjoyment of the Lemon Herb Chicken Ring, attributing the difference in taste to using bottled lemon juice instead of fresh lemon juice.
  • A participant shared a personal tip of using lemon pepper seasoning instead of lemon juice in the recipe, stating it enhances the flavor.
  • Another participant discussed their method of reheating the dish on a stone, suggesting it prevents the food from becoming unappetizing.
  • One user indicated that they do not involve their children in testing recipes unless they are specifically for kids or desserts, preferring to test with their spouse instead.
  • Another participant expressed concern about testing recipes on potential customers, suggesting it might create a negative impression of the product.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ on the taste of the Lemon Herb Chicken Ring, with some participants enjoying it while others found it too lemony. There is no clear consensus on the best reheating method or the appropriateness of testing recipes on family versus potential customers.

Contextual Notes

Participants shared their experiences as Pampered Chef consultants, discussing their approaches to recipe testing and the challenges of catering to picky eaters.

Who May Find This Useful

Consultants looking for insights on managing recipe testing with family members who are picky eaters may find this discussion relevant.

P
pelamm
Messages
106
Well, tonight was my first night to debut some PC cooking in my home. My husband had invite a friend and her kids from work over for dinner, and I prepared the Lemon Herb Chicken Ring. Well, about half an hour before they were supposed to get here, she called and bailed. OK, fine, more for us. Well, neither my husband or son cared for the recipe. "Too lemony." "Would have been better with biscuits than croissants." So I have about half to take for work tomorrow. I hope it reheats well.

Other than that, everything works great. I am in "practice" mode using everything (this is my second use of the stone). Took me a while to get the zester to dig in, though, and my hand cramped.

Anyone else deal with picky eaters at home? How do you practice recipes - just make and take to work?
 
I have found that the rings don't reheat well.the bread gets chewy and sometimes soggy.I eat it anyway, but fyi
 
chicken ringI love the lemon herb chicken ring I thought it was delicious! I'm surprised they didn't like it. I actually didn't use lemon juice from a lemon because I didn't have one at the time. (I used lemon juice from the bottle :eek: ) So I didn't think mine was that lemony. Maybe thats why they thought the lemony taste was strong. You guys are right about reheating rings although they are still yummy. Maybe if they were reheated in the oven they would taste better? Anyone know? I've never tried that. My first month as a pampered chef consultant I only made PC recipe's for dinner. My husband was thrilled because he loves PC food. :p So every night for a month I practiced using the PC tools with the recipes. It was an easy and fun way to get in practice!
 
A tipHere is a tip for you. I never put lemon juice in the Lemon Herb Chicken Ring recipe. Instead, I bake the chicken with a lemon pepper seasoning prior to making the recipe.
After the ring bakes, I then zest, score and slice the lemon for garnish around the stone. It takes fabulous this way!
Hope this tip helps!
Cheers,
Angela
 
  • Thread starter
  • #5
Hmmmm, I didn't use juice, I used zest... maybe if I had cut that in half. Still leaves me with the crescent-roll-complainer. :p LOL
 
If you reheat it on the stone, it will not be nasty. If you have the small bar pan, you can reheat it in the toaster oven without having to fire up the oven.
 
The recipe for the Lemon Herb Chicken ring does not call for lemon juice, only the zest. I have made this at numerous shows and everyone just raves about the flavor that the lemon zest adds. Try it with just the zest. Good luck :D
 
  • Thread starter
  • #8
I reheated in the small oval baker (still just have my starter kit) and only had access to microwaves. It wasn't really crispy, but at least it wasn't slimy.
 
crescent roll issureHey - what you can do to use the biscuits is use the stoneware muffin pan, flattened each biscuit lay it across the muffin area and put your mixture in there - forms a little purse - VERY good that way too!!!
 
Adressing picky eatersWhen testing recipes, I do not use my children unless it is a children's recipe! Or dessert, and even that is iffy) I find they are not into rings, and all the other "cute" dishes PC is in to.. they like what they are used to. Unless it is a variation of something they know, (like pizza,etc) then maybe.

My husband and I test the recipes together, and I just really try to be honest with myself... if I don't love it I can't make it for any one else. In my short time with PC I have found that the biggest thing you can sell is your enthusiasm and honest belief about what you're doing~ if you don't love it, it won't come across well at all. We're here to show them the great part of PC, whether it is the products, recipe or yourself. The hubby is a good sounding board, however, I've found.

My opinion only: I wouldn't try a recipe on people at work. What if they don't like it?? I don't work, but aren't they potential customers, hosts, recruits?? Why give them the impression that PC has some mediocre or downright yucky recipes?? (although I haven't found that, it is personal taste). We don't sell the recipe, but it still gives an impression.

Take this all with the finest grain of salt, I am new to PC and may not know one thing I am talking about! I am just saying common sense stuff that I thought while reading the post :-)
 

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you handle picky eaters when testing recipes?

When testing recipes for picky eaters, it's important to consider their preferences and dislikes. Start by gathering information about what they enjoy and what they avoid. This can help you tailor your recipe testing to include familiar flavors and ingredients.

What strategies can I use to make recipes more appealing to picky eaters?

To make recipes more appealing, try incorporating familiar ingredients in new ways. You can also involve picky eaters in the cooking process, allowing them to choose toppings or mix-ins. Presenting food in fun shapes or colors can also make it more enticing.

Should I stick to traditional recipes when testing for picky eaters?

While traditional recipes can be a safe bet, don't hesitate to experiment with variations that maintain the core flavors but introduce new elements. Sometimes, a slight twist on a classic can make it more appealing to picky eaters.

How can I encourage picky eaters to try new recipes?

Encouragement is key! Offer small portions of new recipes alongside their favorite dishes. You can also create a positive atmosphere by making mealtime fun and stress-free, which can help them feel more open to trying new foods.

What if a picky eater refuses to try a recipe?

If a picky eater refuses to try a recipe, it's important to respect their choice. You can gently encourage them to take a small taste without pressure. Sometimes, repeated exposure to a dish can lead to increased acceptance over time.

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