How do you cook for people with different dietary needs?

1 Know your audience

Before you plan your menu, find out who you are cooking for and what their dietary needs are. Some people may have allergies, intolerances, or sensitivities to certain foods or ingredients. Others may follow a specific diet for health, ethical, or religious reasons, such as vegan, gluten-free, halal, or kosher. Some people may have personal preferences or dislikes that affect their food choices. Ask your guests or clients about their dietary needs in advance and make a list of what they can and cannot eat.

2 Choose versatile ingredients

One way to cook for people with different dietary needs is to use ingredients that are widely acceptable and adaptable. For example, rice, quinoa, potatoes, and pasta are common staples that can be cooked in different ways and paired with various sauces, vegetables, and proteins. Fruits, nuts, seeds, and herbs are also versatile and can add flavor and texture to your dishes. You can also stock up on some substitutes for common allergens or restricted foods, such as plant-based milks, cheeses, and meats, gluten-free flours and breads, and egg replacers.

3 Cook separately or in batches

Another way to cook for people with different dietary needs is to cook separately or in batches. This means that you prepare the same dish in different versions, depending on the dietary needs of your guests or clients. For example, you can make a vegetable curry with coconut milk and serve it with rice, but cook some chicken separately for the meat-eaters and some tofu separately for the vegans. You can also make a salad and offer different dressings and toppings for people to choose from. This way, you can cater to everyone's needs without compromising on taste or quality.

4 Label and inform

A final way to cook for people with different dietary needs is to label and inform. This means that you clearly indicate what ingredients are in each dish and what dietary needs they meet. You can use signs, stickers, or tags to label your dishes, or verbally inform your guests or clients about what they are eating. You can also provide a list of ingredients or a recipe card for each dish, in case someone has a question or a concern. This way, you can avoid confusion, misunderstanding, or potential allergic reactions.

Cooking for people with different dietary needs can be a fun and creative challenge. By following these tips and strategies, you can make delicious and satisfying meals for everyone to enjoy.

5 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?