Ep. #206: Cultivating a Curious Palate, with Jack Zhang
Oct 19, 2023
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Instagram and TikTok sensation chef Jack Zhang, known as @CookingForLevi, discusses the importance of cultivating a curious palate in children. He shares his experiences of creating visually appealing meals for his son, Levi, and how it has influenced their parenting. They emphasize the value of trying new things and setting an example for children. Gardening is analogized to curiosity, and they explore the joy and challenges of both. Jack expresses gratitude for the support they have received through their Instagram account.
Introducing novel foods can cultivate curiosity in children by creating a sense of safety and encouraging exploration.
Involving children in the cooking process and engaging them in conversations about food origins and preparation can foster a positive and curious relationship with food.
Deep dives
The Power of Novelty in Sparking Curiosity
According to Susan Engel, attention to novelty is the foundation of curiosity. This podcast episode explores how introducing novel experiences, such as unique and surprising foods, can cultivate curiosity in children. The speaker emphasizes the importance of providing a sense of safety and security for children, as well as creating an environment that encourages exploration and inquiry. The behavior and response of adults play a significant role in influencing a child's curiosity. Additionally, the speaker highlights the impact of priming and modeling curiosity in children.
Using Food as a Tool to Cultivate Curiosity
The podcast features an interview with Jack Jung, a self-taught chef, who has gained popularity on Instagram and TikTok for his visually appealing and inventive meals for his young son, Levi. The conversation explores how food can be used to spark curiosity and encourage children to try new flavors and textures. By involving children in the process of cooking, engaging them in conversation about food origins and preparation, and providing a playful and open-minded approach to mealtimes, parents can create a positive and curious relationship with food.
Reflecting on the Journey and Parenting Strategies
The podcast reflects on the challenges and rewards of parenting and fostering curiosity in children. The speaker discusses the importance of adapting to the ever-changing nature of parenthood and creating a safe space for curiosity to flourish. The conversation with Jack Jung highlights the role of curiosity in his personal and professional growth as a chef and parent. The podcast concludes by encouraging parents to embrace curiosity in their own lives and to approach parenting with an open and adaptable mindset.
Instagram and TikTok sensation chef Jack Zhang, aka @CookingForLevi, has some things to teach the rest of us about the adventure that is food and toddlers. His delightful videos are proof that bringing a little curiosity into the kitchen can make mealtime magic happen. Young Levi is a curious eater, eagerly joining his parents on the culinary journey they're offering.
Jack and his wife Emmy have just come out with Cultivating a Curious Palate, a cookbook of the delicious and exotic dishes Jack has been making for Levi. How could I not ask for a chat?
Cooking for Levi: https://www.instagram.com/cookingforlevi/
Theme music by Sean Balick; “Plum King” by Molerider, via Blue Dot Sessions.
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