What is a Foodie?

According to the American Heritage Dictionary, a foodie is "A person who has an ardent or refined interest in food." As of now, I would say that I have an "ardent" interest in food. While, I still eat junk on occassion, I've come to use the phrase "wasting a meal" quite a bit. I have become passionate about cooking, experiencing, and exploring food at a higher level. I become upset when I have to "waste a meal" because of circumstances (others deciding the restaurant, restaurant fails to cook my meal properly, etc). I become excited at the sight of a beautifully presented dish. I become excited when I discover new and interesting flavor profiles. My passion for food led to this new adventure. An article on Slashfood.com states, "To be a foodie is not only to like food, but to be interested in it. Just as a good student will have a thirst for knowledge, a foodie wants to learn about food." I'm interested in learning more about new spices and preparations. This requires an adventurious spirit. I'm the first to admit that I am not a risktaker. However, I have found the world of cuisine a fairly safe place to test the waters. Perhaps, this burgeoning spirit will manifest in other areas of my life. I don't think that would be a bad thing at all.

So, why am I a wannabe foodie and not a foodie? Well, I don't quite have down the second part of the definition, namely the "refined interest". A large part of my adventure is refining my palate. As I experience new flavor profiles, I am widening my perspective. I'm learning more about what I do and do not like, and why. I'm learning more about how important quality ingredients are. It's more than a notion. I'm increasingly looking forward to exploring this world. It's good thing I'm a patient student.