Making Comfort Food at the Funerals: 75 Recipes to Help

When you think of food for a funeral reception, what comes to mind depends on where you live, your culture, and your family traditions. Southerners often turn to hearty casseroles. Those in the northeast may want meatballs or Italian fare on the table. In the Midwest chances are you'll spot a plate of egg salad sandwiches along with hot dishes. Regardless of where you live, you want food that will be economical, comforting, easy to prepare, and easy to eat. Regardless of what...
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When you think of food for a funeral reception, what comes to mind depends on where you live, your culture, and your family traditions. Southerners often turn to hearty casseroles. Those in the northeast may want meatballs or Italian fare on the table. In the Midwest chances are you'll spot a plate of egg salad sandwiches along with hot dishes.
Regardless of where you live, you want food that will be economical, comforting, easy to prepare, and easy to eat. Regardless of what you decide to serve, it is important to remember that the purpose of the funeral reception is to give those who have come to pay their respects the opportunity to gather together to support each other and to share their memories of the deceased.
This book is a unique collection of 75 recipes typically served at funeral ceremonies, alongside descriptions of rituals and traditions from cultures around the world. One part sociological study and one part cookbook, the book explains the background and proper timing for such culinary rituals as passing a hen and a loaf of bread over a grave as dirt is shoveled onto the coffin, serving chocolate caskets and skull-shaped cakes at a funeral, and baking up a Funeral Pie to acknowledge the passing of a loved one.