Real talk, what makes kids like and dislike things?

My little niece has little to no qualms about eating – as long as she actually wants to eat, she'll try almost everything. Met some grown ass adults who won't eat lettuce and proudly admit that green things are gross, while she will take on wasabi and dark mustard and simply comment those might taste better on something and give another try later. She loves garlic paste, onion and strongly seasoned foods like middle eastern cuisine, and remaining somewhat composed when she eats actually hot stuff, most kids throw a temper tantrum.

Feels like throwing a cat into a pool, watching it swim a few laps and come back to you to toss it again.