Hi, I was banded five days ago. My brother is a chef and I asked him for help on the thick liquids phase. He made me a soup with all kinds of veggies, lots of grilled chicken breasts and then he pureed it all. It was delicious and easy to swallow. I was so inspired that today I made my own soup using whole peeled tomatoes and crushed tomatoes, carrots, basil, peas, and a few potatoes( to add thickness without using creams) and 96% lean ground turkey. When it was finished I pureed it in a blender. Turned out excellent. And I did this while making a regular dinner for my family. So yes, regular food for them, but stick with your pureed food. Best of luck!!