How to use events to introduce new flavours
Introducing new less familiar flavours to aged care residents can sometimes be a little challenging. They often have their favourite meals they are reluctant to let go of, such as fish and chips on a Friday or pasta on a Tuesday.
Encourage residents to try new meals by holding special events based on seasonal or cultural festivals and celebrations. It is an engaging and fun way to introduce new flavours and dishes.
Our top 3 event and dish suggestions
A curry night can be held any time but it makes sense to tie it to Diwali, the Festival of Lights celebrated by Hindus, Jains and Sikhs. This five-day celebration usually falls sometime at the end of October or beginning of November. Similar to Chinese New Year, the dates for Diwali are dependent on lunar months so each year it falls at a slightly different time.
Our favourite recipes:
This delicious soup combines the distinct flavour of the korma sauce, the nutty goodness of cauliflower and the added benefit of being fortified with a Greek yoghurt. It may also be suitable for residents on IDDSI texture level 4 if the correct thickeners are used.
This is another flavourful dish that also lends itself to IDDSI texture modification for level 6 and 5. It is mild and aromatic to suit your residents’ palates but can be extra spiced for those who are more adventurous. The mango chutney gives extra delicious layers of flavour.
A large proportion of Australians and New Zealanders celebrate Chinese New Year each year with an emphasis on the food served at the festival. There is a broad range of dishes to choose from.
Our favourite recipes:
This popular Chinese classic is loved by many generations for its distinct flavour, filling noodles and hearty goodness, especially during the cold weather months.
This full-flavoured hot pot is a little adventurous but still mild and contains familiar ingredients. It can also be easily adapted to IDDSI levels 6 and 5 if needed.
Celebrated every year on the 14th of July, this festival is an excuse to indulge in widely-popular French flavours. French cuisine is known for its rich, flavour-filled dishes and is almost synonymous with some seriously indulgent desserts.
Our favourite recipes:
This French classic is rich in flavour, filled with protein and can be adapted from IDDSI level 7 through to 4 using our recipe that has been specially developed for texture-modified diets.
A favourite sweet treat, creme brulee is naturally fortified with milk and cream. The addition of lavender gives this classic dessert an unusual refresh!
Help your residents discover the world of flavours while having fun celebrating special cultural events. Create delicious, themed meals and add them to the list of in-demand favourites. View our full library of event inspiration articles here.
Disclaimer: The content of this article is created for inspiration purposes only. It is not intended as clinical, medical or nutritional advice.
