If it has fallen on you to organise a wake or funeral reception for someone you love, then you will most likely know that it is traditional to provide food for those attending. Providing something to eat helps with the social aspect of the funeral. People need to have something to sustain them while they talk to family and friends, and catch up on old times.

As such, here are some foods you might like to consider for your funeral.

  1. Sandwiches 

Sandwiches are particularly ideal for a small afternoon funeral and go well with the option of tea and coffee. Popular fillings include Cheese and Cucumber, Egg Mayo, Ham Salad, or Roasted Vegetables. You may also like to include a slice of cake or the option of scones and jam.

You can also offer toasted sandwiches if facilities are available. These can add a little something extra to the event.

  1. Finger Buffet / Appetizers

If you aren’t in the right frame of mind to cook a large meal or if your funeral gathering is being held in an area with limited facilities for cooking or reheating, then a finger buffet can be the answer. Finger buffets are also informal and allow for a lot of mingling, which can be ideal.

A lot of foods used in finger buffets can also be used as appetizers to whet the appetite before a larger dish is served.

Some finger buffet/appetizers you may like to consider are:

  • Devilled Eggs
  • Loaded potato skins
  • Chips and dips
  • Sausage rolls
  • Crispy mushroom sliders
  • Potato salad
  • Coleslaw
  • Pigs in blankets
  • Mozzarella sticks
  • Cheeseboards
  • Cuban Sliders
  • Selection of bread and biscuits

  1. One-pot Meals and Tray Dishes

If you are making hot food, then you can’t truly go wrong with a one-pot meal or a tray dish. Pastas, rice and noodles are ideal because they can be batch cooked and easily served.

Suitable foods include:

  • Macaroni Cheese
  • Oregano Chicken and Squash
  • Lemon and Herb Chicken
  • Cheesy Potatoes
  • Pasta Bake
  • Tuna Casserole

  1. Baked Goods

Baked Goods are ideal treats to add to any funeral gathering. They will also please any children that may be present.

  • Baked treats can include:
  • Chocolate brownies
  • Cookies
  • Red Velvet Cake
  • Lemon Pound Cake
  • Victoria Sponge

Remember, whatever you provide, you will need to ensure you have enough plates and cutlery on hand. Also, consider whether any of your guests have particular dietary needs, allergies or preferences.

Obviously, providing a spread for a funeral gathering can seem daunting and add pressure on you at a time when you don’t need it. If you decide you want help with your funeral catering in Auckland, then we are always here to help.