Demo Choice... She Says Something Basic Aka Boring!

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Discussion Overview

The thread centers around a participant's challenge in selecting a suitable cooking demonstration recipe for a host's family, who are described as preferring basic and traditional flavors. Various participants share their thoughts on what constitutes a "boring" recipe and suggest alternatives that balance simplicity with appeal.

Discussion Character

  • Opinion-based
  • Anecdotal

Main Points Raised

  • One participant mentions the host's guests are "basic and boring," prompting the need for a simple demo recipe.
  • Several participants suggest recipes such as cool veggie pizza, chicken, and broccoli/chicken ring as options that fit the "boring" criteria.
  • Another participant shares their experience with a basic spaghetti dish that can be elevated with presentation.
  • One participant notes that some hosts might be pleasantly surprised by trying slightly adventurous recipes, like Aloha Pizza.
  • Another participant recounts a successful experience with a Strawberry Spinach Salad, despite initial concerns about its appeal.
  • Several users mention that "boring" could refer to either the lack of adventurous ingredients or basic cooking techniques.
  • One participant expresses the importance of considering the host's knowledge of their guests' preferences when selecting a recipe.
  • Another participant suggests Profiterole Puffs as a simple yet popular option for less adventurous eaters.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ on what constitutes a "boring" recipe, with some participants advocating for completely basic options while others suggest that slight variations can be well-received. No clear consensus emerges on a single recipe choice.

Contextual Notes

The discussion reflects a range of personal experiences and opinions regarding recipe selection for cooking demonstrations, particularly in the context of catering to less adventurous eaters.

Who May Find This Useful

Consultants seeking ideas for simple yet engaging cooking demonstrations may find the shared experiences and suggestions relevant to their own challenges.

quiverfull7
quiverfull7
Gold Member
Messages
3,142
Hey... I have a host who herself is willing to try new things but says that most of her guests are her husbands family and they are BASIC and boring and we will lost them during the demo and show if I try anything too different for the demo. We're doing the creamy caramel skor dip with apples ahead of time but I need something plain and ordinary "taste" wise to demo. This one has me stumped... or maybe it's the flexaril I took for my stiff neck that is keeping me from thinking clearly... anyway... I have to get her a grocery list and I can't even choose the demo ... HELP!!!!!!!!!
 
Cool veggie pizza?
 
Or go back a while and do the broccoli/chicken ring/braid/wreath...
 
30 min chicken... you can't get more borning than plain chicken. Serve with grand biscuits you bake on the stone, serve the condiments in SA, slice chicken with knives, use cutting board, meat lifters, pot holders, seasonings. You could probably add more stuff, but that's just off the top of my head.
 
clubhouse chicken squares?
 
Why not the Colossal Chopped Salad? It can be boring and you can paint word pictures on how they can add their favorite veggies to the mix to make it their own. Or, since you already have something for them to munch on, try the lime and potato demo.
 
Do they want boring as in nothing adventureous food wise or boring as in basic cooking techniques?
 
What does it say about us when we jump all over a "boring" recipe request and have a hard time with the themes?!? :D
 
Hmmm... I take boring as "no unusual seasonings or ingredients". We have a ton of basic recipes in our cookbooks. If you don't have the cookbooks do a recipe search on CC and you'll find a ton that would work.

Do one of those but use the products and/or a garnish as pazazz!

My spaghetti is as basic as it gets but put it in the dots large bowl and (according to DH) it's fit for the finest company!
 
Along with what Beth is saying, why not show them how to make their meals look nice with entertaining tips with SA pieces?
 
  • Thread starter
  • #11
WOW! Thanks for all the responses already! She means boring as in spices etc... I am mulling these over.. .maybe I'll do the chicken or the pork tenderloin... that's basic meat and potatoes ... keep the ideas flowing tho since you are all on such a roll! :) And I'm feeling deliblitated! I do not handle being slowed down very well. If you could whisper a prayer or two that this muscle relaxes I would appreciate it.
 
shhhh... Please Lord, help Diane's neck to be free and loose!
















Good whispered prayer?
 
You know, sometimes I push my "boring" hosts to try something different and they are pleasantly surprised. Aloha Pizza comes to mind as one of those recipes. Our Cool Veggie Pizza is also just a little different with the addition of the garlic in the cream cheese mixture.
 
I made Strawberry Spinach Salad at a show recently but the host wanted a second recipe because she was afraid no one would like it. We made cool & creamy chocolate fondue. EVERYONE LOVED the salad - they couldn't believe - strawberries and onions!


And of course they loved the chocolate too - HELLO! ...CHOCOLATE!
 
Chocolate is a no-brainer for a show recipe. :D

I do like to do things that people are a little leery about, to show them that there are tasty combinations that they may not have thought of. The Aloha pizza is a good one for that. Many people have had pineapple on pizza, but the BBQ sauce (and fresh pineapple) makes it SOOOOO much better than typical carry-out.
 
Calypso Club Sandwich was that way, too. Pineapple and onion? It was always a hit, though.
 
There was a wrap a few summers ago with avocado on it. Delish, but many people think that the only thing you can make with avocado is guacamole.
 
  • Thread starter
  • #18
Great Whispered Prayer! :) Y'all can actually shout one out too if you like... :) I tried to get this host to stretch... and she had the Jerk Chicken Salad at the show where she booked hers and loved it but since we are dealing with In-laws I don't feel like I can push too hard. She seems to know them well enough to know what not to do... kwim? SO I'm continuing to read your ideas here and I'll choose soon! I can't thank all of you enough!
 
Diane, I think I'd really do the chicken - maybe the pork, but you can be safe with chicken. Even the boring, plain eaters will pick up a rotisserie grilled chicken at the deli in the store ...
 
If you aren't set on something savory, what about the Profiterole Puffs? I did them for a friend who is very unadventurous (and cheap to boot) and they were a huge hit. They are great for people who don't want to buy a lot of extra out of the ordinary stuff.

ETA: I tried to push the Wilted Spinach Salad with Candied Pepper Bacon and she said it sounded gross! :eek: (I personally think it's to die for!)
 
Our classic recipes are a good choice. As someone said the Chicken Broccolli Braid...everyone LOVES!! It is more or less bland/simple. Any of the ring filling options are good choices (All The Best cookbook). Another stunning demo and delicious recipe is the Tomato Basil Squares...lifetime favorite!
 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is "Demo Choice... She Says Something Basic Aka Boring!"?

"Demo Choice... She Says Something Basic Aka Boring!" refers to a common scenario in direct sales where a consultant may choose to present a simple or basic product during a demonstration. This can sometimes lead to perceptions that the demo lacks excitement or innovation.

Why would a consultant choose a basic demo?

A consultant might choose a basic demo for several reasons, including the desire to showcase foundational products that are essential for cooking, to appeal to a broader audience, or to ensure that the demonstration is easy to follow for those who may be new to cooking or kitchen tools.

How can a basic demo still be engaging?

Even a basic demo can be engaging by incorporating storytelling, personal experiences, or tips and tricks that add value. Consultants can also encourage audience participation, share creative uses for the product, or highlight unique features that might not be immediately obvious.

What are some examples of basic products that can be demoed?

Examples of basic products that can be effectively demoed include kitchen tools like measuring cups, spatulas, or mixing bowls. These items are essential for cooking and can be demonstrated in ways that show their versatility and importance in everyday meal preparation.

How can consultants overcome the "boring" perception of basic demos?

Consultants can overcome the "boring" perception by adding enthusiasm to their presentation, using humor, and connecting with their audience on a personal level. They can also provide practical demonstrations that solve common cooking problems or showcase time-saving techniques that resonate with the audience's needs.

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