People Made Food That They Hated As Children And Were Surprised To Actually Like It

Some childhood food memories stick around for years, especially the ones tied to a dish you swore you would never eat again. For a lot of people, that list includes vegetables, casseroles, and other foods that only got better once they were cooked by someone who actually knew what they were doing.

That is the heart of this Reddit roundup, people shared the foods they hated as kids and later ended up loving as adults. A lot of the surprise comes down to seasoning, better cooking, and maybe a more grown-up palate.

Here are the foods people remade, revisited, and finally appreciated, plus a few of the reactions that came with them.

1. Brussel Sprouts

Brussels Sprouts!Apparently boiling the s**t out of something until they're mushy and watery is not great. Lightly grilled/broiled with some oil and seasoning and they're one of my favorite dishes.indignantlyOtterish

2. Steak

My neighbor (he's 80+ now), told me a funny story relating to this.He grew up in rural WV. When he was in his 20's, he was doing some odd job work in the city for a woman homeowner. At the end of a day of work, she offered to cook him dinner. She asked "Do you like steak?"He said "Yea I guess." She said "How do you take it?"He didn't understand what that meant. She says "How would you like it done?"He still didn't get it. He says "Cooked?"This is the day he learned of doneness for steak. The first time he'd heard of food being able to be "done" by request. He had never had any meat that wasn't fried to a crisp. He said his mother made everything the same way: Fry it or boil it down. She would put fat in the pan, and fry the meat.He said this particular steak, and meal, was the best he'd ever had in his life. First time tasting properly cooked food.davewtameloncamp

3. Veggies

Obviously wasn't a huge veggie fan until I started roasting veggies in the oven as an adult. Roasted carrots are so freaking good.RomanRefrigerator

The phenomenon of rediscovering foods once disliked can be attributed to the evolving nature of our taste buds and psychological associations developed during childhood. Research indicates that our taste preferences can change significantly over time, often influenced by cultural exposure and personal experiences.

A study published in the Journal of Food Science suggests that repeated exposure to certain foods can lead to increased acceptance and enjoyment, highlighting the brain's capacity for adaptation in response to new experiences.

The phenomenon of rediscovering food once disliked as a child speaks to the psychological concept of taste evolution. Research in developmental psychology shows that our preferences for certain foods are heavily influenced by early experiences and socialization. As individuals mature, their taste buds and cognitive associations evolve, often leading to a newfound appreciation for foods that were previously rejected.

This transformation can be attributed to increased exposure and the influence of social contexts, where positive experiences surrounding food can reshape our perceptions. Understanding this process can help parents and caregivers encourage healthy eating habits in children, emphasizing the importance of repeated exposure to various foods.

4. Pretty much everything

Basically everything. My mother was a good person who loved her family, but she couldn't cook for s**t. EVERYTHING was boiled until it was grey, and the meat was dried to holy hell and the vegetables had the consistency of pudding. Her ONLY move in the kitchen was to put a (not even cleaned of connective tissue) hunk of whatever animal we were desecrating tonight for dinner in a 350 degree oven, in a roasting pan with too much water. OFTEN FOR THREE OR MORE HOURS. It never one time occurred to her to try lowering the heat or the cooking time, but she always complained that "white meat is dry". Yeah, because you basically scorched the s**t out of it!I fired her from cooking duties at 14 and it was the best move I ever made. I'm no Michelin star chef, but I'll make you happy at my table.StoreBrandColaSucks

5. Spinach

Spinach. My dad would only eat canned spinach that was then boiled. Found out later that fresh spinach is a wonderfully flavorful green and is best either crisp, or cooked until slightly wilted.Emerilion

6. Pork chops or steaks

Pork chops and steaks were s**t until I realized they should not actually be prepared for use in the NHL. I love my mom dearly and for that, I must keep her out of the kitchen for her safety and that of the world.PrivatePigpen

Moreover, the context in which foods are consumed plays a crucial role in shaping our preferences. Positive experiences associated with particular foods can alter our emotional responses, leading to a newfound appreciation. For instance, meals shared with loved ones can create positive associations that transform our perception of previously disliked foods.

Understanding these dynamics can encourage individuals to revisit and redefine their relationship with various foods, allowing for a more varied diet.

Moreover, the interplay between memory and taste can significantly impact food preferences. Neuropsychological studies suggest that the brain's reward pathways are activated during enjoyable eating experiences, reinforcing positive associations with certain foods. By creating positive memories around meals, families can foster healthier eating habits and encourage a more adventurous palate among children.

7. Vegetables again - I guess this is a common problem.

Vegetables. All of them basically, my mom would boil them to sludge every time.Cordolium102

8. Mayo

"Mayo" Didn't realize there was a difference between Miracle Whip and Mayo and my Mom only bought Miracle Whip.monstertots509

9. Pot roast

Pot roast, I hated how dry and flavorless it was. I actually wrote an essay about it in my English class. The teacher showed it to my mom and she changed up her recipe lolUninsuredToast

Memory plays a significant role in our relationship with food, as sensory experiences are often intertwined with emotional memories. Neuropsychological studies show that our brain's reward system is activated during pleasurable eating experiences, reinforcing positive associations with specific foods.

This connection between taste and memory can explain why individuals may find themselves enjoying foods they once avoided, as new experiences create novel memories that replace old, negative associations.

Psychologically, revisiting foods once disliked can also serve as a metaphor for personal growth and change. This process reflects the broader human experience of overcoming past dislikes or fears, revealing a capacity for adaptation and resilience. Confronting and re-evaluating past preferences can lead to greater self-awareness and acceptance.

Encouraging individuals to reflect on their experiences with food can promote a growth mindset, where they embrace change and new experiences.

10. Canned vegetables

Daughter of depression era parents here: grew up with a lot of canned/tinned vegetables. Jesus, canned asparagus is tough, sinewy and slimy all at the same time. Freshly steamed with a pat of butter is amazing! Even now when I mention it's one of our favorites, my older relatives gasp and say "you buy it out of season?" like we're billionaires.usexpatlurker

11. Mashed potatoes

Mashed potatoes. My mom didn't belive in butter.matchooooh

12. Lasagna

Turns out Lasagna is much better than nasty burnt Stouffers.Kyser_

Additionally, the social context of eating should not be overlooked. Engaging with friends or family during meals can enhance enjoyment and acceptance of foods.

Encouraging individuals to share meals with others can thus be a practical approach to expanding their food preferences.

And it gets messier than “AITA,” like the cousin who argued they deserved Grandma’s secret gravy.

Furthermore, this phenomenon emphasizes the role of social influences in shaping our preferences. Social psychology research indicates that peer pressure and cultural norms can significantly impact food choices, often leading individuals to adopt preferences that align with their social groups. Highlighting the importance of communal meals and shared experiences can help individuals navigate their food preferences more effectively.

13. Meatloaf

Meatloaf. My parents were in love with a specific **teriyaki** sauce they bought in 2 gallon jugs from Costco and drowned an otherwise plain lump of ground beef with and called that a teriyaki glazed meatloaf... it oughta be a crime.Flash forward to my seasoned beef/pork mix with italian herbs, parmesan, and just the right amount of a sweet/spicy tomato glaze and it's just a different world we live in.redkat85

14. Spaghetti

Spaghetti.Parents would always cook it until it was mushy.Al dente pasta is **amazing**Seiren

15. Scrambled eggs

Scrambled eggs. My mother always insisted they have to be “runny”, meaning an eggy puddle with tiny ‘curds’ of solid egg. It looked and tasted like vomit.She takes it personally that I now cook them differently. Like, it *infuriates* her that I do it “the wrong way”.BedevilledEgg

Trying small portions of the disliked food in different preparations can help in altering taste perceptions and building positive associations.

Additionally, involving friends or family in the process can create a supportive environment that encourages experimentation and reduces resistance to trying new foods.

For parents and caregivers, introducing previously disliked foods can be approached with patience and creativity.

16. Everything that wasn't seasoned

A lot of food. My parents were the typical white parents who didn't believe in spices or seasonings. Just throw a burger on the grill or make noodles, etc.Grew and learned to cook on my own and my palate didn't know what to do with all the amazing flavors the world had to offer.Xano74

17. Lasagna and cheesecake

Lasagna and Cheesecakes.... my mom made both with cottage cheese to save money. Once I lived on my own I discovered ricotta and cream cheese.v13

18. Mac n cheese

Mac and cheese. My mom only made the boxed stuff. I never knew anything different until I got married and my wife made some homemade for dinner. Game changer.Magooose

Finally, keeping a food journal can be an effective way to track progress and reflect on changing preferences. Noting emotional responses and contexts of each experience can provide insights into the evolving nature of one's taste preferences, fostering a deeper understanding of the psychological factors at play.

Ultimately, this practice can empower individuals to cultivate a more adventurous palate and embrace a wider variety of foods.

Moreover, sharing personal stories of food transformations can inspire children to embrace new experiences. When adults express their own journeys of rediscovering tastes, it normalizes the process of change and encourages a mindset of exploration and curiosity.

19. Raw tomatoes

Hated raw tomatoesRealized that all they were missing was salt, pepper, some toast and a lil mayo. Now I'm obsessed.deckpumps_n_deldos

20. Risotto

RisottoMy mom just cooked the rice in water, then fried some ground beef without any flavoring and just combined the two with some frozen vegetables. I grew up thinking risotto would be the most tastless food ever.Until a friend of mine showed me how he first fries the rice with butter and slowly adds consomme-wine mix to the rice and finishes with some pan-fried chicken and parmesan cheese. It blew my mind completely!sensitivepistachenut

21. Cauliflower

Cauliflower! Turns out, I hated steamed or boiled cauliflower.I love love love it roasted. I liked most veggies growing up - except that one.green_ubitqitea

Ultimately, fostering an open attitude towards food requires patience and persistence. Psychological studies emphasize that repeated exposure to new foods can significantly enhance acceptance over time. Parents should aim to introduce disliked foods gradually, allowing children to acclimate to the taste and texture at their own pace.

Creating a routine of presenting new foods alongside familiar favorites can also help ease the transition, leading to a more balanced and varied diet.

22. Peas

meiliraijow

23. Everything

Everything. My mother could burn a tossed salad.MrSpindles

24. Cranberries

I hated cranberries for most of my life because all I ever had was canned cranberry jelly. Then. A friend of mine had a friendsgiving and someone brought homemade cranberry sauce and it changed everythingbigirv10

25. Liver and onions

Liver and onions. Bear with me please lol. My mom was a great cook, made international recipes, the whole 9. But when she made liver and onions, you were eating a hockey puck. Cooked it to DEATH. Fast forward to pregnant me living with my sister in law who made it one night and OMG it was amazing, tender and flavorful, perfectly spiced. I miss it. I never got her recipe 😞Ausgezeichnet63

26. BBQ

BBQ - didn’t realize how good BBQ could be until I moved to Texas. In Ohio, BBQ it meant smothering A1 sauce on bland meat.Most mustard based stuff. Mustard on a McDonalds burger, disgusting. Mustard in a stew or on a properly prepared Chicago dog - awesomeComplex-Narwhal-9895

27. Salad

Any salad. Turns out, I don't like vinaigrette. I don't know how everyone likes it, I must be the weird one.LichPineapple

28. Hamburgers

Turns out the bun can make or break a hamburger. My mom used to always prepare them with these wheat buns, so I used to never like hamburgers. Took me a few years to realize they’re really really good with a more standard sesame, brioche, or potato bun. One of my favorite foods nowadaysDoppelfrio

29. Mushrooms

Mushrooms.My mom forced me to eat cream of mushroom soup one time and I threw up after eating it. For the longest time I associated mushrooms with that and so I avoided them until I got to college and discovered that they are actually really good.-eDgAR-

30. Chili

Chili— it was watery, bland and had very few beans and had spaghetti noodles in it (apparently that’s a southern US thing). It was a bowl of boring to me.mellyjo77

Some of these foods we expected to be on this list, but others really were a little bit surprising. Turns out that a lot of our parents just couldn't cook as well as they probably thought they did.

Another thing is that children's taste buds are much more sensitive. So, if they don't like some food, they really hate it.

Do you have a dish to add to this list or do you agree with any?

The exploration of revisiting foods once loathed as children underscores the evolving nature of our palates.

Revisiting childhood food dislikes, as highlighted in the article, offers a unique opportunity to expand our culinary horizons. The experiences shared reveal how common childhood aversions to foods like Brussels sprouts and spinach can transform into newfound appreciation, suggesting that taste is not static but can evolve over time. This journey of rediscovery encourages a more adventurous approach to our diets, prompting us to confront and re-evaluate our past experiences with certain foods.

By embracing gradual exposure to these foods, individuals can break free from the confines of their younger selves and cultivate a more varied palate. This process not only enriches our meals but also enhances our understanding of flavors, ultimately leading to a more fulfilling and diverse culinary experience.

Before you judge, read about the ungrateful brother debate over Grandma’s meatball recipe.