Author: Amy Listermann, MS, CCC-SLP
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Safe Texture Finder
There is no such thing as too much urgency when it comes to seeking assistance with difficulty with chewing and swallowing. However, some don’t see a speech-language pathologist (SLP) until weeks after symptoms begin. These weeks, no doubt, feel magnitudes longer, as the concern rarely stops when standing up from the table. I want to…
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IDDSI Levels Explained: Foods, Textures, and Testing Methods
Most people don’t think twice about swallowing until something goes wrong. Maybe you had food “go down the wrong way,” or suddenly felt like a bite of food was stuck. That moment can be scary and it can leave you wondering what’s happening and what you should do next. For some, it’s a one-off event.…
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Spinach and Artichoke Stuffed Mushrooms
Soft & Bite-Sized (IDDSI Level 6) Tender foods cut into small, bite-sized pieces that are easy to chew and break apart with minimal effort. Spinach and Artichoke Stuffed Mushrooms are the perfect bite-sized appetizers, combining the rich flavors of creamy spinach and artichoke dip with the earthiness of mushrooms. They’re elegant enough for a party…
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Lemon Shrimp and Grits
Minced & Moist (IDDSI Level 5) Soft foods that are finely chopped and held together with moisture so they don’t crumble or fall apart. Lemon shrimp and grits is a Southern classic with a citrusy twist. This dish features tender, lemony shrimp served over creamy, buttery grits, combining bright, fresh flavors with the comforting, rich…
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Chicken Broccoli Cheddar Pot Pie
Minced & Moist (IDDSI Level 5) Soft foods that are finely chopped and held together with moisture so they don’t crumble or fall apart. This Chicken Broccoli Cheddar Pot Pie is a comforting combination of tender chicken, soft broccoli, and a creamy cheddar sauce baked inside a flaky, golden crust. While this recipe is written…
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Chicken Mole
Pureed (IDDSI Level 4) Completely smooth foods/extremely thick liquids with no lumps that hold their shape on a spoon and don’t require chewing. Chicken Mole is a traditional Mexican dish known for its rich, complex sauce made with chiles, chocolate, and a blend of aromatic spices. This version simplifies the process while keeping the deep,…
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Moroccan Chicken Tagine
Soft & Bite-Sized (IDDSI Level 6) Tender foods cut into small, bite-sized pieces that are easy to chew and break apart with minimal effort. A good tagine isn’t complicated, it’s patient. Moroccan cooking has a long history of using slow, moist heat to coax flavor out of everyday ingredients, and chicken tagine is one of…
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Dark Chocolate Hazelnut Torte
Soft & Bite-Sized (IDDSI Level 6) Tender foods cut into small, bite-sized pieces that are easy to chew and break apart with minimal effort. This dark chocolate hazelnut torte is a rich, decadent dessert that pairs the deep, bittersweet flavor of dark chocolate with the nutty undertones of hazelnuts. This flourless torte has a dense,…
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Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Nice Cream
Pureed (IDDSI Level 4) Completely smooth foods/extremely thick liquids with no lumps that hold their shape on a spoon and don’t require chewing. This Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Nice Cream is a deliciously creamy, dairy-free treat made with frozen bananas, rich cocoa powder, and peanut butter. It’s naturally sweet, packed with flavor, and takes only…
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Malted Milk Cookie Bars
Easy to Chew (IDDSI Level EC7) Regular foods that are naturally soft and easy to chew, without tough, dry, or hard components. Malted milk has a long, practical history in baking and home kitchens. It was developed in the late 19th century as a nourishing, shelf-stable food made from malted barley, wheat flour, and milk.…