Nothing seems better than a hot, steaming plate of your favorite dish when you are hungry. In fact, for foodies, the sight of a delicious meal is one of the most beautiful scenes in the world. An appetizer can add a cherry on top in this regard. It has been a long-held tradition to enjoy something lighter before the main course meal.
Whether you are eating at home or enjoying food at a restaurant, a meal is usually divided into three main parts. These include a starter, a main dish, and dessert. Anything that you devour before the main course falls into the category of appetizers. They act as appetite stimulants, increasing your hunger before starting on the entrée. Another important reason to opt for such small portions is that they prepare you for the main meal.
This article will answer why an appetizer is a must before the main course. So, keep scrolling down to learn more.
5 Reasons an Appetizer is a Must Before the Main Course
Most of the time, when something mouthwatering is served before us, we end up consuming the dish excessively. This is a negative approach that can be prevented by having a starter before moving on to the main dish. In addition, a starter also enhances your dining experience and stimulates the digestive system.
Let’s focus on the five reasons an appetizer is a must before the main course:
1. Appetite Stimulation
You might be surprised to know that appetite is not just about feeling hungry. Rather, it is a complex bodily process that involves several factors. It revolves around the release of different hormones and digestive juices that create a sensation of hunger. An appetizer has a significant say in this matter. It helps increase the production of the hunger hormone, ghrelin.
It also initiates the release of gastrin, preparing your body for digestion. In addition, the sight, smell, and taste of appetizers can create anticipation and excitement for the main course, which can further enhance appetite. For this, you can try French starters like Truffle-infused Mushroom Soup, Salmon Tartelettes, and Truffée Potato Puff. You can visit an authentic French restaurant like James Café to devour such delicious first courses.
2. Prepares You for the Main Course
Let’s imagine a scenario. You are visiting a restaurant for the first time. After observing the atmosphere and reading reviews, you have high expectations regarding the main courses. Therefore, you order a dish without considering an appetizer. However, when the main course is served, it does not live up to your anticipation. It will certainly ruin the whole experience.
The best way to avoid this kind of disappointment is to always start with the first course. They serve as the opening act in a culinary performance, setting the stage for the dining experience to come. If it is good, it will make you more optimistic about the main dish. On the other hand, if it has a poor taste and quality, you will automatically lower your expectations for what is yet to come.
3. Portion Control
Digestive issues and weight gain are among the common health problems in today’s world. One of the prime contributors to these conditions is eating excessively, the opposite of which is portion control. It is the practice of consciously managing the amount of food you eat. It helps your body meet its nutritional requirements without overwhelming the digestive system.
That said, portion control is considered a critical benefit of starters. They provide a satisfying yet mouthwatering start to a meal. As a result, you can steer clear of consuming the main course excessively. In fact, it can be a part of your mindful eating routine for this reason. You can try Short Ribs Puff and Wagyu Tartine to elevate the taste and nutritional profile.
4. Enhanced Dining Experience
Eating a meal is not all about devouring your favorite dishes. Dining experience encompasses a number of activities and sensations. These include sensory engagement, personalized touch, social interaction, and memorable moments. If any of these factors is missing, you might not be able to enjoy a meal to its full extent, no matter how delicious it is.
Appetizers are known for elevating the dining experience and giving it a new touch. For one, it triggers appetite and sets the stage for the main course. Secondly, a shared plate of starter can encourage conversations among diners. Moreover, these first courses add variety, texture, and flavor to your table.
5. Aids Digestion
Last but not least, if you have any digestive issues, it would be better to start with an appetizer before moving on to a main dish. Making a habit out of it will help keep your digestive system in better shape. Research shows that different types of first courses have the potential to stimulate your gut and prepare it for digestion.
Certain starters, like the ones with a slightly bitter or spicy flavor, trigger the release of digestive hormones and juices. Portion control is another important way they can keep you from overeating, preventing the feelings of sluggishness and discomfort after the main course. Eating vegetables, fruits, and fermented options as appetizers can provide prebiotics and fiber, further improving digestion.
Want to Devour Delicious Appetizers for These Benefits?
Summing up, starters are among the healthier dining traditions. They are a must before the main course for several reasons, including appetite stimulation, portion control, and better digestion. They also prepare you for the main dish and enhance your dining experience. Visit James Café now if you want to devour delicious appetizers for these benefits.
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