AinOd, thanks. I don’t think it is salt alone, because I add that always. Maybe some of the other spices that were mentioned. I may try your olive oil ingredient.
I have a feeling that caterers are not going to reveal the entire secret of kiddush chulent so quickly.
At a kiddush, I usually eat so much, I have no appetite for the meal. I feel guilty sometimes not being properly yotzei the lunch meal, but it would be achila gasa if I forced myself to eat, and not healthy either.
I rationalize that the meals are there for Oneg Shabbos, and not to torture a person. If he wants to eat, gezunteheit, if not, then there is no need to force himself.