People Share Foods They Or Someone They Know Have Been Eating The Wrong Way
Check the list - you might have been eating your favorite food the wrong way.
One of the best things about humans is that we are all different. And that means we even like different food.
And we are not talking just about different dishes. Nope, we are talking about different ways of preparing and seasoning the same dish.
Like sweet and savory french toast. Or salted peaches... If the last one sounds a bit weird - stick around for an explanation.
There will always be debates over food, how it should be prepared, and the ideal combinations. If you stop to think about it, such a conversation is sort of worthless because we are all born with distinct taste receptors, and some individuals enjoy and despise the same things.
But it still goes on as Redditor heystarbuckslover asks, "What are some foods that most people have been eating the wrong way or not the way it was intended?"
The majority of respondents genuinely responded with the strangest and most unusual ways they or someone else has ever eaten. This collection of people's blunders may be considered instructional or even inspirational.
Because some of these people like how food tastes when prepared the "wrong way." Who is to say they are doing it wrong, then? Take a look:
1. "Licking The Tacos' Inside First, Eating The Shell After"
Ya seen these taco lickers? You heard of these guys? Yeah, well there are these people out there, and I don't know who raised them or how they turned out the way they did, but they eat their tacos middle-out. They dip their heads down to their tacos and lick out all the insides first, then eat the soggy shell afterwards. Sometimes they don't even eat the shell. I can't take my kids out to the Taqueria anymore because of these freaks. I don't want my little girls to become taco lickers. It's just not natural and I will not have any taco lickers living under the roof of my house!
100_Donuts,Steve Rainwater2. "Not Letting The Pizza Rolls Cool Down"
You're supposed to wait for the pizza rolls to cool down BEFORE you put them in your mouth, not after while you're doing the dragon breath thing trying not to let them touch your tongue
UrdnotChivay,zombieite3. "Rinsing Your Pasta"
I don't know if it's "most", but I know it's fairly common to rinse off your pasta after you drain the water. Don't do that.Also, cooking the pasta until it sticks to a wall means you over cooked it.I've read plenty of ways "to make your pasta better" but those two simple things are the only ones that really made any difference to me.
teke367,Andrew Petro
Cognitive Dissonance and Food Preferences
The phenomenon of eating foods in unexpected ways often highlights cognitive dissonance, where our beliefs about food clash with our actual practices. For instance, individuals may believe that certain foods should be consumed in specific manners, yet their experiences tell a different story. This internal conflict can lead to feelings of confusion or embarrassment, particularly in social settings.
According to research published in the Journal of Abnormal Psychology, cognitive dissonance can motivate individuals to either change their behavior or justify their choices, which is a fascinating aspect of human psychology.
Cultural Influences on Food Consumption
Anthropologists and psychologists alike have noted that cultural norms heavily influence how we consume food.
Dr. Sofia Mitchell from Columbia University highlights that these norms shape our beliefs about what is considered 'correct' or 'acceptable' eating behaviors.
This can lead to widespread misconceptions about food preparation and consumption, as individuals often mimic behaviors they observe in their cultural surroundings.
4. "Steaming Brussels Sprouts And Not Seasoning Them"
If you steam brussel sprouts and also dont salt and pepper them of course you don't like them. They need to be charred and on the brink of almost burnt for them to be good. Olive oil salt and pepper in a 450-degree oven cut in half, and cook for 10 to 15 minutes.
SmurfSawce,Luis Tamayo
5. "Well-Done Steak"
My dad believes steak should be well done. And by well done, unseasoned shoe leather.Growing up I never could fathom why anyone loved steaks, and why they were such an 'expensive treat' at the house. My dad would buy these beautiful, thick-cut rib eyes, then toss them on the flaming grill with no seasoning, cook them on one side for seven minutes, flip, then the other side, till they had shrunk half their size and were charred. Then he would berate us for using sauce because 'it covered up the flavor of the meat. No Scott, your inability to cook on a grill covers the flavor.It wasn't until I was 18 and living on my own that I tried to grill my own. Seasoned with garlic powder and salt, flipped on the flaming grill often and buttered between flips, taken off when I was tired of waiting, I had my first medium rare steak that melted in my mouth.I have never let my father 'cook' me another steak since.
Gcannon21,stu_spivack
6. "Up until a couple of years ago (22 currently) I thought you were supposed to bite the skin off the apple then eat it. If I didn't have a knife I would spend my time biting around the entire apple, spitting the skin out, then eating it."
Keeng_Keenan,shellac
Food habits are often deeply intertwined with cultural norms and personal experiences, which makes them ripe for exploration through a psychological lens. The cultural psychology perspective emphasizes that our eating patterns are influenced by family traditions, societal expectations, and even peer behaviors. When someone eats a food in a way that deviates from these norms, they may experience social anxiety or concern about judgment.
The work of cultural psychologists shows that these feelings can be mitigated through education and open conversation about food practices, fostering acceptance and reducing stigma.
Additionally, research indicates that family traditions and childhood experiences play a significant role in shaping our eating habits.
For example, those who grew up in households where certain foods were prepared in specific ways may carry these practices into adulthood, often without questioning them.
7. "Not deveining shrimps. You have to devein shrimp, or else you're eating their poop."
Stop_Sign,liz west
8. "Eating Lightly Salted Peaches With Mayonnaise"
My grandfather enjoys eating lightly salted peaches with mayonnaise. If you didn't know there was a wrong way to eat a peach, now you know.
**sword_69420420,Meghan McCarthy
9. "This is really relevant to me today, because I just found out that my girlfriend has been buying smoked salmon for years then cooking it!"
sarasti,stu_spivack
Understanding Food-related Anxiety
Food-related anxieties can stem from various factors, including past experiences, dietary restrictions, or societal pressures. Research indicates that individuals with food anxieties often develop specific eating habits as coping mechanisms to regain a sense of control. These responses can lead to rigid eating patterns that don't align with their actual preferences or desires.
To combat these anxieties, a therapeutic approach that includes exposure therapy can be beneficial. Gradually introducing individuals to the foods they fear or feel uncomfortable with can help destigmatize their experiences and promote healthier eating habits.
The Psychology of Food Preferences
Psychologists suggest that our food preferences can be traced back to early childhood experiences and even genetic factors.
Dr. Ian McEwan at the University of Cambridge emphasizes that innate taste preferences, combined with exposure, create unique eating habits.
For instance, children who are exposed to a variety of flavors during formative years are more likely to develop a diverse palate.
10. "Recently read where people were **eating the f*****g wax** on Babybel cheeses and I haven't been the same since"
anon,Matthew Bellemare
11. "My grandpa would peel a green apple using this nifty little device, then salt it and put it on a stick and give it to me"
12. "Not others but I don't take Oreos apart and lick the frosting off first, I just bite into them like a savage."
ThroughMyOwnEyes
Encouraging discussions around food choices can also serve as a powerful tool for building community and understanding. Group therapy settings can provide safe spaces for individuals to share their food experiences and learn from one another. Implementing mindfulness techniques during meals can enhance the enjoyment of food and decrease anxiety surrounding eating.
Ultimately, fostering an open and non-judgmental environment allows individuals to explore their relationship with food without fear of backlash or ridicule.
To address the misconceptions around food consumption, experts recommend increasing awareness about the diversity of food practices.
Engaging in food education initiatives can help individuals explore a broader range of food preparation methods and expand their culinary horizons.
Workshops focusing on cultural cooking styles can promote an appreciation for diversity and enhance one's understanding of food.
13. "Asking For Chopsticks In Thai Restaurants"
It's not traditional to eat Thai food with chopsticks. They use a fork and a tablespoon. Stop asking for chopsticks in Thai restaurants.
bigredcar,WordRidden
20. "Putting The Spread On The Salty Side Of The Cracker"
For me, it was crackers with any sort of topping until my wife showed me the error of my ways. I would always put cheese, or whatever spread I might be eating with the crackers on the top i.e. salty side of the cracker. My wife lost her ever loving mind when she saw me do this. She then proceeded to explain to me that I should turn the cracker over and put the spread, cheese, or whatever on the bottom so that the salty side would hit my tongue when I put the bite in my mouth.It was a revelation.
dubgeek
4. "Eating Fruit That Is Not Ripe Enough"
My dad served us underripe fruit my entire childhood because to him firm = good and soft = bad. The first time I had a mango that was actually ripe I was an adult and the experience was borderline orgasmic.
Eating Fruit That Is Not Ripe Enough
Breaking Free from Misconceptions
It's essential to recognize that many food misconceptions are perpetuated through social media and popular culture.
Dr. Peter Kahn from the University of Washington emphasizes that exposure to curated food images can skew perceptions of what is 'normal' or 'ideal.'
This can lead to guilt or shame when individuals cannot replicate such standards in their own cooking.
16. "I eat Kiwis with the hairy skin on."
My mom said I seemed to like it so she wasn't going to stop me. Later on, I find out that I'm a freak of nature for doing it, but I still eat it that way because I just like it. The only downside is that since I like the texture of the hair and skin, I have "forbidden fruit" moments when I'm looking at the abdomen of a tarantula.
_Space_Bard_,Bart Everson
17. "There was a comment a long time ago from a guy who found out in adulthood that you aren't supposed to eat the cupcake wrappers when someone looked horrified when he ate it."
The_Lady_Aurora,Joy
18. "To everyone who eats spaghetti with a little itty bitty smidge of sauce at the top with the rest completely dry and white: Atone or be banned from cooking forever."
Makerinos,David Pursehouse
Encouraging a mindset of exploration rather than perfection can alleviate these pressures.
Psychologists recommend that individuals focus on the joy of cooking and eating rather than adhering to strict standards.
Mindful eating practices, which emphasize being present during meals, can foster a healthier relationship with food.
19. "Eating Vegemite In A Sandwich Instead Of A Toast"
Vegemite. As an American I was tricked into eating some as a sandwich and was convinced it was just a food meant to prank people with. An Australian friend was alarmed when I recounted this and corrected the method for me."Oh GOD no, you don't eat it as a sandwich! You've gotta get yourself a nice piece of toast, spread a good layer of butter on it, then just the tiniest scrape of Vegemite over that. And if you can get a slice of cheap processed cheese on there, even better! Please please don't dismiss Vegemite until you give it another go."This same friend introduced me to TimTams AND the TimTam slam, so who was I not to trust her implicitly?? I took her advice, and I'm glad I did. Ended up buying myself a little jar because dang, that's a nice little savory punch if you use it right!
mongaloogirl,s2art
20. "Putting Noodle Seasoning Before Draining The Water"
People can make their basic ramen taste a bit better, open the packet, take out the seasoning, and set it aside, cook the ramen just in the water, after its cooked drain the water leaving only a tiny tiny amount, pour some more out you still have too much, just a little, and add the seasoning and mix it at that point, it actually flavors the noodles themselves and makes em taste much better
demonardvark,Joy
21. "Eating The Whole Edamame Pod"
When I first ate edamame I chewed up the entire pod and couldn't figure out why people enjoyed eating them. I did't realize you're just supposed to eat the bean inside the pod.*Not peas in a pod. Beans.
Amari__Cooper,David Pursehouse
The Role of Social Media in Food Perceptions
Research indicates that social media significantly shapes our perceptions of food and eating.
Dr. Lila Thompson from UCLA notes that platforms showcasing idealized food images can create unrealistic expectations about meal preparation.
This can lead to a disconnect between reality and the curated versions of food experiences we often see online.
22. "Ginger with Sushi. You're actually supposed to eat the ginger slices between eating the rolls of sushi so as to cleanse the palate."
bcook5,Marco Verch Professional Photographer
23. "Not many people know but you are supposed to remove the membrane that is on the bottom of a rack of ribs before you cook them. It makes them easier to cut and eat."
Karallys36,John
24. "Ladies and gentlemen of Reddit. Do whatever you’d like behind closed doors, but please remember if you’re eating a banana in public it’s banana to mouth. Not mouth to a banana."
Naked_Lunge,perriscope
25. "If you eat salmon to have a healthy meal, it's more beneficial to leave the skin on... just fry it with some salt/pepper until it's crispy."
TummyStickers,Ján Sokoly
26. "Throwing Away The "The Fleshy Seedy Inside" Of Guavas"
I don't know about most people, but growing up I always thought I hated guavas because they were so dry. Turns out, my parents used to cut out the best part--the fleshy seedy inside-- and serve me the dry rinds...Edit: since a lot of the comments are confused, I'd like to clear a few things up.My parents would cut out where the seeds are and eat the green part + the white parts where there are no seeds. not sure if that's fully the rind; I guess the easiest way to compare it is with a watermelon: it's like cutting away the red flesh and eating the skin + white part. no, my parents don't hate me (maybe for other reasons) because I've seen them throw away the seeds. we are Vietnamese and my parents prefer the dry, crunchy texture with some chili salt and think the seeds cause constipation.
vasedpeonies,Eugene Kim
27. "Eating French Toast As A Savory Dish"
Okay, so this is more along the lines of me eating a certain dish the wrong way, but when I was little my mom would make french toast except she would put chilies, onions, and sometimes chicken on it. I grew up thinking french toast was a savory dish until I ordered it at a diner and it was sweet. I still like my mom’s version of french toast better tbh.
ItsSatyB1tch,Ted Barrera
28. "My buddy's step dad puts sugar in his f*****g mac and cheese. Sometimes I think about it and I can't sleep"
YeetattheVoid,Andrew Dobrow
29. " Eating The Artichoke With All Its Leaves"
[A man once sued a restaurant in Miami for serving him an artichoke which he promptly ate all of.] I don't mean like "he finished the artichoke" - I mean that this guy, who apparently is a *Doctor*, just ate the entire f*****g thing, including all of the inedible parts.For those of you who have never encountered an Artichoke, the edible part of the plant is a fleshy substance that is on the inside parts of the leaves. You scrape it off and eat that part and discard the leaves. The artichoke heart, in the middle of all of the leaves, is also edible (and delicious). The stem and the fibrous leaves are not edible. Well, I guess except for this guy.
The_Prince1513,Jeremy Keith
30. "Picking The Fluffy Parts Away From Each Piece Of Popcorn"
My friend eats popcorn by picking the fluffy parts away from each piece and discarding the “seed” center. Every time i tell him he's an idiot but he's too stubborn to just eat a damn piece of popcorn like a human
homiej420,Ann Larie Valentine
We owe you an explanation about putting salt on the peaches. It is a way to emphasize the fruit’s sweetness.
The salt makes the sugar in the fruit stand out. It also induces saliva production, thus making the fruit taste softer and full of juices. Well, now you know what to do if you take a bite of a fruit that’s not ripe and sweet enough.
Psychological Analysis
This discussion illustrates how deeply ingrained cultural and familial influences shape our eating habits, often without our awareness. It’s crucial to challenge these norms and embrace a more flexible approach to food.
Encouraging exploration and creativity in cooking can lead to greater satisfaction and enjoyment in our meals.
Analysis generated by AI
Analysis & Alternative Approaches
Understanding the psychological factors influencing food consumption is essential for promoting healthier eating habits.
By recognizing the impact of culture, family, and social media on our eating behaviors, individuals can make more informed choices.
As research shows, fostering a positive relationship with food requires a shift towards mindfulness and appreciation for personal experiences.
Analysis & Alternative Approaches
In conclusion, examining the psychological dynamics of food consumption reveals intricate connections between behavior and mental processes. By addressing the underlying anxieties and social pressures that influence eating habits, individuals can cultivate healthier relationships with food. Research underscores the importance of community and dialogue in fostering acceptance and understanding around diverse food practices.
