Playing with food - Traditional Vs Innovative

 Some diehards will never, if ever, vary from the native tastes to which they have become accustomed. They want their foods to follow the traditional tastes and presentations which they became used to during their childhood. 

They remember their grandparents and other nostalgic moments and often associate them with the food and beverages of the period. 

Here in Barbados, Saturdays have become synonymous with pudding and souse, on other days there are macaroni pie and baked chicken. Some menus are described by the overarching brand of Bajan Food. 

Nowadays, the younger generation is more adventurous. They may not be able to prepare the traditional dishes, yet they recognize they need more. They crave innovation. Some have even developed interests where they are referred to by their peers as "foodies". 

To hear them speak, they sound like authorities on food, even venturing to pair food and beverages, suggesting what can be used at various occasions and functions. 

What makes them figures of authority on food? It's how well-traveled they are when they experience meals in various cultures that many others may not have had the opportunity to do. This develops when students study abroad, experiencing various cultures they ordinarily would not experience at home. 

Even portion sizes differ, with traditional dishes offering substantially more per serving than the innovative. It seems like tradition focuses on the satiation of hunger while innovation is about addressing tastes and experiences - you be the judge. 

Image for illustration purposes only

Vs

Image for illustrative purposes only

What is recognized is that both forms of presentations and the groups to which they cater are found to be appealing. As food and beverage servers it is important to be clear who you intend to serve and function accordingly. 

Whatever your decision, understand how you are going to play with your food. This is necessary to be attractive in the culinary playground. Food offers such diversity of expression across the globe - Create yours for which you intend to become known. Enjoy!!!