Funeral Food
I know this is so morbid, but it’s something no one really talks about and I’ve always had the fascination about food at funeral gatherings whether it be at someone’s home or the funeral break room. I can count how many funerals I’ve attended or donated food to. I think they are very costly but I can understand why a person’s memorial can mean so much more than that final goodbye. In my recent case, it was a chance to reunite with all of the relatives who live across the states and share stories of the first time all the cousins met. It’s truly sad how most families and friends don’t get together more than we should, so we wait when there’s a wedding or funeral. Recently, for my 80-year-old grandmother’s funeral in Minnesota, we honored her legacy with 24 hours of prayers by a Shaman, along with an abundance of food and gold “boat” money for the afterlife. In return, if the grandchildren who are there to pay their respect and lucky enough, we'll receive good luck. If you should ever have an open invite to a Hmong funeral, I recommend you attend. There’s really nothing like Hmong hospitality because they truly appreciate anyone who takes the time to honor their loved ones during a 2 and half day funeral feast filled with nonstop eating and drinking with the community - yep, lots of beer! Hmong food is so damn satisfying! For now, here’s a list of the best dishes I’ve ever had at Hmong special events and I’ll add the recipes sooner or later so come back to check on them!
Tofu Larb (Minced tofu with traditional Thai seasonings and herbs & perfect for American funeral due to their food health restrictions in the break room)
Bitter Beef Soup (my favorite Hmong specialty dish served at Hmong receptions)
Fresh Rolls ( Vegetarians will love you for making these!)
Banana wrapped Sticky Rice Cake
Mai’s famous Fried Chicken (After having the honor to help out at a friend’s fathers funeral, I couldn’t stop thinking about the amazing Hmong food they served there)
Tapioca Coconut Dessert Drink “Nab Vam”
Sticky Rice Coconut Balls
Share with me what’s the best food you’ve ever ate at any funeral! I’d love to know!