by Laura Everage

Read up on the previous entries of The Family Eats Challenge Series 

Two weeks ago, we introduced you to Janet and Jim, our first Family Eats Challenge family. When we last left them, we suggested that they plan meals for the week before they went grocery shopping. Because leftovers are not popular in their household, we felt that if they paid closer attention to preparing the appropriate amount of food for two, then they would not have to deal with leftovers as frequently. We suggested that they pay attention to the recipe’s portion sizes, and purchase only that amount of meat, poultry and other ingredients. 

This week, we introduced Janet and Jim to Chef Miki of Melissa’s/World Variety Produce, who will help guide our Challenge Family in meeting their goals. 

As we learned from our previous visit with the two, Jim is a picky eater, while Janet is a bit more adventurous. Through her questioning, Chef Miki was able to find out a bit more about what it is Jim likes and doesn’t like about certain foods. Turns out, it is the texture of many of these foods. Generally, Jim does not like foods that have competing textures – which is probably why he does not like casseroles or pot pies. Additionally, other than shrimp, he is not a fan of seafood. He tends towards savory foods and enjoys eating Italian, Mexican and Asian. 

As for Janet, she explained that she is willing to try just about anything. The only cuisine she is not fond of is Asian food, but feels that perhaps the reason is that it leaves her unsatisfied.