Ok so the fall has quickly come and will soon make way for the cool and crisp air of winter. Like any bride, you are in the final stages of pulling together your menu. Yes the menu!
Of course, every Latina bride has her own family traditions and family expectations and the food just cannot disappoint. But, of course it won’t. Here are some great ideas for you and your hubby to be to consider.
Remember, if you go green or local, you will need the extra time in planning the meals, especially if some of the ingredients are local so you can plan for any seasonal foods and delivery.
We have designed a meal that consists of suggestions from appetizers to main course to desserts.
Course 1:
Even if you have passed starters and appetizers, you can always pass a few trays featuring a plate of gold and silver chocolate arras (coins) or sugar cookies in a shape of a ring.
But for the majority of your starters:
1. arepas with pulled pork and pickled onions
2. carne asada with black bean and goat cheese dip
3. fried tortilla chips and fish ceviche with tapas.
4. gelatin tequila shots for the adults
5. fizzy gelatin blocks for the kids
6. pasteles or empanadas
Course 2:
Remember, this is the time to bring in crisp tasting salads and rich creamy soups….
1. Cassava and corn breads
2. Avocado, cucumber and tomato salad with a lime and cilantro dressing
3. Creamy pumpkin soup.
Here is a suggestion for an alternate menu:
1. Flatbread
2. Lettuce, tomato, and cucumber salad in oil and vinegar
3. Cuban black bean soup.
Course 3:
Now for the main meal!
1. Ropa vieja, otherwise known as a beef stew which can go along well with rice and beans and a side of fried plantains.
Suggestion 2:
1. Curry goat with the rice and beans and fried dumplings on the side.
Course 4:
A traditional wedding cake made with nuts and dried fruit soaked in rum and sprinkled with powdered sugar
Suggestion 2 for the fourth course
Rasberry flan plated for each individual.
These guidelines can be adjusted to the needs and tastes of the guests who will attend. Check in with cooking groups and ethnic cooking magazines for more suggestion for menu items and how they are prepared. Advanced planning will save you time and money.
