Mastering IELTS Speaking: How to Effectively Describe a Food You Disliked as a Child but Like Now

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In the first part of the IELTS Speaking test, the examiner may ask you questions about food preferences and how they’ve changed over time. Here are some potential questions you might encounter:

1. Do you like trying new foods?
2. Has your taste in food changed since you were a child?
3. Are there any foods you didn’t like before but enjoy now?

Let’s focus on answering the third question as it directly relates to our main topic.

Sample answer (Band 7-8):

“Yes, absolutely. One food that comes to mind is broccoli. As a child, I couldn’t stand the sight of it on my plate. The texture and bitter taste were off-putting to me. However, as I’ve grown older, my palate has developed, and I’ve come to appreciate its nutritional value and versatility in cooking. Now, I actually look forward to having broccoli in my meals, especially when it’s roasted with some olive oil and garlic.”

IELTS Speaking: Discussing changing food preferences

Part 2: Long Turn

Cue Card

Describe a food you disliked as a child but like now.

You should say:

• What the food is
• Why you disliked it as a child
• When and why you started to like it
• And explain how you feel about this change in your taste

Sample answer (Band 6-7):

“The food I want to talk about is spinach. As a child, I really hated eating spinach. I thought it tasted bitter and had a strange texture. My parents often tried to make me eat it, saying it was good for me, but I always refused.

I started to like spinach when I was in college. One day, my roommate made a spinach and cheese quiche, and it smelled so good that I decided to try it. To my surprise, I found it delicious. The cheese helped to balance out the taste of the spinach, and the texture was much better when cooked this way.

After that, I started to try spinach in different dishes, like salads and smoothies. I realized that when prepared properly, spinach can be really tasty. Now, I eat spinach regularly and even enjoy it raw in salads.

I feel quite happy about this change in my taste. It’s interesting how our preferences can change as we grow older. Now I understand why my parents wanted me to eat spinach – it’s full of vitamins and minerals. I’m glad I gave it another chance and discovered that I actually like it.”

Sample answer (Band 8-9):

“The culinary item I’d like to discuss is spinach, a leafy green vegetable that was once the bane of my existence as a child but has since become a staple in my diet.

As a youngster, I vehemently despised spinach. Its bitter undertones and somewhat slimy texture when cooked were incredibly off-putting to my immature palate. I recall countless dinnertime standoffs with my parents, who persistently tried to convince me of its nutritional merits, but to no avail.

My change of heart occurred during my university years. A pivotal moment was when my roommate prepared a spinach and feta quiche. The enticing aroma that wafted through our apartment piqued my curiosity, prompting me to sample it. To my astonishment, I found it absolutely delectable. The creamy feta cheese beautifully complemented the spinach, neutralizing its bitterness and enhancing its earthy flavors.

This experience sparked a culinary journey of rediscovery. I began experimenting with spinach in various dishes, from vibrant salads to nutrient-packed smoothies. I came to appreciate its versatility and realized that proper preparation could transform it into a delightful ingredient.

Reflecting on this shift in my taste preferences, I find it fascinating how our palates can evolve over time. It’s a testament to the idea that we should remain open-minded about foods we once disliked. This change has not only broadened my culinary horizons but also significantly improved my nutritional intake. Spinach, with its abundance of vitamins and minerals, has become an integral part of my balanced diet.

In essence, this transformation in my relationship with spinach symbolizes a broader personal growth. It reminds me of the importance of challenging our preconceptions and giving second chances, not just in food but in various aspects of life. What was once a childhood nemesis has become a cherished ally in my quest for a healthier lifestyle.”

Follow-up questions:

1. How has your diet changed since you were a child?
2. Do you think it’s important for children to try foods they don’t like?

Sample answers:

1. (Band 7-8) “My diet has undergone a significant transformation since my childhood. As a kid, I was quite picky and preferred mostly processed foods and sweets. Now, I’ve developed a much more diverse palate. I actively seek out new cuisines and prioritize nutrient-dense foods. I’ve also become more mindful of my eating habits, focusing on balanced meals that include a variety of vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. This change has not only improved my health but has also made eating a more enjoyable and adventurous experience.”

2. (Band 8-9) “I believe it’s crucial for children to be exposed to a wide variety of foods, including those they initially dislike. This practice cultivates adaptability in their taste preferences and broadens their culinary horizons. It also fosters a sense of adventure and openness to new experiences, which are valuable traits beyond just food choices. Moreover, repeatedly trying different foods can help children overcome neophobia – the fear of new foods – which is common in early childhood. However, it’s equally important to approach this sensitively, without forcing or creating negative associations with food. The key is to make the process fun and engaging, perhaps by involving children in food preparation or presenting dishes in creative ways. This approach can transform the act of trying new foods from a chore into an exciting journey of discovery.”

IELTS Speaking: Describing changing food preferences

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

Examiner: Let’s talk more about changes in food preferences. Why do you think people’s tastes in food often change as they get older?

Sample answer (Band 6-7):

“I think people’s tastes change as they get older for several reasons. Firstly, our taste buds change over time, so foods might taste different to us as adults. Also, as we grow up, we often try new foods and get used to different flavors. Sometimes, we start to like foods that are considered ‘adult’ to feel more grown-up. Another reason could be that we become more health-conscious as we age, so we might start to enjoy healthier foods that we didn’t like before.”

Sample answer (Band 8-9):

“The evolution of one’s palate over time is a fascinating phenomenon influenced by various factors. Physiologically, our taste buds undergo changes as we age, potentially altering our perception of certain flavors. This biological shift can lead to a newfound appreciation for tastes that were once unpalatable.

Moreover, as we mature, we often broaden our culinary horizons, exposing ourselves to diverse cuisines and cooking methods. This expanded exposure can cultivate a more sophisticated palate, enabling us to appreciate complex flavors and textures that might have been overwhelming in our youth.

There’s also a psychological aspect to consider. As we grow older, we often become more health-conscious and informed about nutrition. This awareness can prompt us to develop a taste for foods we previously avoided but now recognize as beneficial. For instance, the bitter flavors of certain vegetables, once repulsive to a child’s palate, might become appealing to an adult who understands their nutritional value.

Additionally, our changing lifestyles and social environments play a role. As we enter different phases of life – college, work, parenthood – we’re exposed to new social norms and dining experiences. These experiences can shape our preferences and introduce us to foods we might not have encountered or appreciated earlier.

Lastly, there’s an element of nostalgia and emotional association that develops with age. Foods that we might have disliked as children can become comfort foods in adulthood, evoking memories and emotions that enhance our enjoyment of them.

In essence, the transformation of our food preferences is a multifaceted process, reflecting not just changes in our taste buds, but also our personal growth, expanding knowledge, and evolving lifestyle choices.”

Examiner: How do you think changes in food preferences affect society and culture?

Sample answer (Band 7-8):

“Changes in food preferences can have a significant impact on society and culture. As people’s tastes evolve, we often see shifts in culinary trends and dining habits. For example, the growing preference for healthier, plant-based foods has led to an increase in vegetarian and vegan restaurants in many cities. This change not only affects the food industry but also influences social gatherings and cultural events where food plays a central role.

Moreover, as people become more adventurous with their food choices, we see a greater exchange of culinary traditions between different cultures. This can lead to the popularization of ethnic cuisines and the creation of fusion dishes, which in turn can foster cultural understanding and appreciation.

These changes also impact agricultural practices and food production. For instance, the increasing demand for organic and locally-sourced foods has led to changes in farming methods and distribution systems.

In the long term, these shifts in food preferences can shape national cuisines and contribute to cultural identity. They can also influence health trends and nutritional awareness in society, potentially leading to improvements in public health.

Overall, I believe that changes in food preferences act as a reflection of broader societal changes, encompassing aspects of health, environment, and cultural diversity.”

IELTS Speaking: Discussing the impact of changing food preferences on society

Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores

1. Culinary journey /ˈkʌlɪnəri ˈdʒɜːni/ (noun phrase): An exploration or experience of different foods and cooking styles.
   Example: “My trip to Italy was a culinary journey that opened my eyes to the wonders of Mediterranean cuisine.”

2. Palate /ˈpælət/ (noun): A person’s appreciation of taste and flavor.
   Example: “As I grew older, my palate became more refined, and I started to enjoy more complex flavors.”

3. Acquired taste /əˈkwaɪəd teɪst/ (noun phrase): Something that you begin to like only after trying it several times.
   Example: “Coffee was definitely an acquired taste for me; I didn’t enjoy it at first, but now I love it.”

4. To broaden one’s horizons /tə ˈbrɔːdn wʌnz həˈraɪznz/ (idiom): To expand the range of one’s knowledge, interests, or experiences.
   Example: “Trying new cuisines is a great way to broaden your culinary horizons.”

5. Versatile /ˈvɜːsətaɪl/ (adjective): Able to adapt or be used for many different purposes.
   Example: “Spinach is a versatile ingredient that can be used in salads, smoothies, and cooked dishes.”

6. To cultivate /ˈkʌltɪveɪt/ (verb): To try to acquire or develop a quality or skill.
   Example: “Over time, I cultivated an appreciation for spicy foods that I once avoided.”

7. Gastronomic /ˌɡæstrəˈnɒmɪk/ (adjective): Relating to the art or science of good eating.
   Example: “My trip to France was a gastronomic adventure, filled with exquisite dishes and flavors.”

8. To evolve /ɪˈvɒlv/ (verb): To develop gradually.
   Example: “My taste in food has evolved significantly since I was a child.”

9. Nutritional value /njuːˈtrɪʃənl ˈvæljuː/ (noun phrase): The amount of nutrients provided by a food.
   Example: “I’ve learned to appreciate the nutritional value of vegetables I once disliked.”

10. To transform /trænsˈfɔːm/ (verb): To change completely the appearance or character of something.
    Example: “Proper cooking techniques can transform even the most unappealing vegetables into delicious dishes.”

Examiner’s Advice

To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test when discussing food preferences:

1. Use a variety of vocabulary: Incorporate food-related terms and descriptive adjectives to make your responses more vivid and engaging.

2. Provide detailed examples: When describing foods you like or dislike, give specific reasons and personal anecdotes to support your points.

3. Show reflection: Demonstrate your ability to analyze changes in your taste preferences and their implications.

4. Use advanced grammar structures: Incorporate complex sentences, conditionals, and passive voice where appropriate to showcase your language skills.

5. Maintain fluency: Practice speaking on this topic to ensure you can discuss it smoothly without long pauses or hesitations.

6. Expand on your answers: Don’t just give short, simple responses. Develop your ideas fully, especially in Parts 2 and 3 of the test.

7. Stay on topic: While it’s good to elaborate, make sure your responses remain relevant to the question asked.

8. Show cultural awareness: If appropriate, mention how food preferences might vary across different cultures or regions.

9. Use idiomatic expressions: Incorporate relevant idioms or colloquial phrases naturally in your responses.

10. Practice pronunciation: Pay attention to the correct pronunciation of food-related terms and practice them regularly.

Remember, the key to success in the IELTS Speaking test is to communicate effectively and demonstrate your English language skills through natural, fluent, and accurate speech.