When asking someone about the food served at dinner and expressing your dietary preferences, it's essential to be polite and respectful. Here's a suggested way to approach the situation:
Express gratitude: Start by expressing your appreciation for the invitation and their effort to host the dinner. For example: "Thank you so much for inviting me to dinner. I really appreciate it."
Show interest in the menu: Show interest in the dishes that will be served, without specifically mentioning pork at this point. You could say something like: "I'm looking forward to trying the dishes you've prepared."
Inquire about ingredients: To understand the menu better and communicate your dietary preference, you can ask about the ingredients in a general way. For instance: "Could you tell me a bit about the dishes you'll be serving? I just want to be aware of any ingredients used."
Mention dietary restriction: If the host mentions any pork-containing dishes while describing the menu, you can politely let them know about your dietary restriction. For example: "Thank you for letting me know. I actually don't eat pork, but please don't worry about it; I can enjoy the other dishes you've prepared."
Offer to help: To further demonstrate your appreciation and consideration, you can offer to bring a dish that suits your dietary preferences or to assist with any part of the meal preparation. For instance: "If you'd like, I can also bring a side dish that complements the menu, or I'd be more than happy to help with anything in the kitchen."
Remember, being gracious and understanding is key. Your hosts will likely appreciate your thoughtfulness and be accommodating of your dietary needs. Also, avoid making a big deal out of your dietary restriction to avoid any discomfort or awkwardness during the dinner.