5 Mouthwatering Entrees You’re Sure to Love

Trying new foods is always a scary feat, whether you’re whipping something up at home or going out on a limb at a restaurant. This year, make it your New Year’s resolution to try new foods at least every once in awhile. While it’s often hard to stay from that sandwich you have always loved or the dish you know will never disappoint, you may be pleasantly surprised with these newer dishes. Let these 5 mouthwatering entrees help open up your mind and push you to try that food you’ve been cautiously avoiding.

1. Takoyaki

This Japanese cuisine is an interesting concoction that mixes batter and octopus into delicious spheres that you won’t be able to put down. Cooked in a special pan to get its ball shape, Takoyaki contains diced octopus, pickled ginger, green onions, and is fried in wheat-based batter. It gets its name from its sauce that has a similar taste to Worcestershire sauce. There are a plethora of variations, but they all end up the same: as crunchy balls with a soft, gooey center that can’t be resisted.

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2. Parmesan Encrusted Tilapia

            Seafood has been rising in popularity, especially in the middle of the U.S where seafood is not readily available. Whether you enjoy this area of cuisine or not, Tilapia is a food everyone can enjoy. Its taste is one of the mildest when it comes to fish — bearing a hint of fishy flavor, but not much. When coated in a Parmesan crust though, Tilapias is to die for. One bite and you will fall in love with the mixture of melting cheese, crunchy coating, and perfectly cooked Tilapia.

3. Eggplant Lasagna

            Wait! Don’t skip over this one! By now it’s clear that most people aren’t into any food with the word “plant” in it, but this one will surprise you. Whether the particular recipe you taste contains meat or not, you won’t be disappointed. The texture of the eggplant is the perfect replacement of the noodles, and the taste is nicely masked by the bold flavors used in the lasagna. If you don’t want to totally commit to the eggplant, you can even do half eggplant, half lasagna noodles. It’s so delicious that you will forget it’s healthy!

4. Hoisin Pork Roast

            Pork Roast is a common staple in the American diet, but this particular recipe puts a twist on the age-old dinner item. The Asian flavors of Hoisin turn up this classic roast without adding any difficulty to the baking. The combination of juicy pork and flavorful sauce result in a dish that absolutely everyone will rave about. One taste of this dish and you’ll be making it for dinner parties for years to come.

5. Toasted Barley and Chicken Pilaf

            Chicken pilaf is a delicious way to make a quick, filling meal in one pot — easy cooking and easy clean up! Add the toasted barley, and it’s heaven in your mouth. Because everything is cooked in the same pan, you get to experience every single flavor thrown into the mix. This makes for a fabulous comfort food that has a hint of a toasted nutty flavor and even contributes a little bit to your recommended daily dose of whole grain.

            You have to eat food to survive, so why not mix it up every once in a while? After all, great food makes for a great mood; try one or more of these foods today and you won’t be disappointed!

Billy Giordano is the owner and operator of one of the best restaurants in Columbia MO, Room 38 Restaurant and Lounge. Follow us on Google Plus for specials and great food options and recipes!