For most of us, childhood memories that take one back to the simpler times, are the best. Food always brings back memories and strengthens bonds. The delicious meals mom made at home, the ones you carried to school for lunch breaks and the special treats that were made on birthdays, will often be the ones you remember most clearly. Wasn’t finding out what’s in your lunchbox that day the most exciting moment?
If sharing these meals and treats with your childhood bestie are part of these fond memories, then recreating that experience for them on friendship day can be special. Each dish, whether it was a comforting snack or a festive treat, carries with it a wealth of memories: the laughter, the camaraderie, and the warmth of those cherished moments.
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By bringing these nostalgic flavours back, you not only enjoy the taste of your childhood but also reaffirm the bond you share with your best friend. It’s about savouring those joyful times and creating new memories together. As you revisit these special dishes, you reconnect with the happiness of the past and celebrate the enduring friendship that has been a constant throughout your journey. Invite the bestie (besties) home and surprise them with a little throwback party.
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Masala Maggi
Remember those playdates when you got hungry suddenly and mom made you maggi? Masala Maggi is more than just a quick meal; it’s also a memory of countless school breaks and late-night study sessions. The instant noodle dish, with its perfect blend of spices and a satisfying texture, was a staple in many school tiffins and sleepovers. The memory of its warm, spicy aroma and the joy of slurping up those noodles is likely to bring back vivid memories of carefree times spent together.
Mini Sandwiches
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Did your tiffin box feature sandwiches on many occasions? Mini sandwiches, often made with a variety of fillings like cheese, cucumber, or jam, were a popular choice for birthday parties as well as school tiffins. Their bite-sized nature made them ideal for little hands and quick munching. The soft bread, combined with the flavourful fillings, was comforting in o the hustle and bustle of school life and brought excitement to a birthday party. These little treats are perfect for rekindling those fun and festive moments. Add some potato wafers when you serve the sandwiches.
Pasta Salad
Pasta salad, with its vibrant colours and mix of veggies, was a hit at many school parties and family gatherings. Often made with a simple dressing and a variety of ingredients such as cheese, olives, and all the veggies that you refused to eat but your mom cleverly slid into this dish, it was both nutritious and enjoyable. This dish embodies the joy of sharing and the simplicity of childhood meals.
Chocolate Cake
The reasons most people love birthday parties when they are kids, are usually the presents and the delicious birthday cake. There’s nothing quite like the joy of biting into a chocolate cake that’s been freshly baked and decorated for a birthday celebration. The rich, moist sponge combined with creamy frosting and perhaps a few colourful sprinkles was a centrepiece of many birthday parties. This decadent treat is a delightful way to evoke the excitement and happiness of childhood birthdays.
Samosa
Every birthday party, especially in the 90s had Samosas. With their crisp, golden pastry and savoury filling, they were a favourite. It was also the dish you bought from the school canteen, even after you ate your dabba. The triangular pockets, often stuffed with spiced potatoes and peas, provided a delicious burst of flavour in every bite. Their flaky exterior and spicy filling make them a nostalgic treat that can transport you back to those carefree days of childhood.
Fruit Chaat
Fruit chaat, a refreshing and colourful mix of seasonal fruits tossed with a hint of chaat masala, was always added to school tiffins and birthday spreads. It’s a healthy, sweet treat that combines the natural flavours of fresh fruits with a tangy spice. This dish represents the joy of simple pleasures and the vibrant energy of childhood. It was mom’s way to get you some nutrition with all the fried snacks at the party,
Paneer Tikka
Paneer tikka, with its smoky flavour and spicy marinade, was a favourite at many special occasions and festive gatherings. The juicy, grilled cubes of paneer were a treat for the taste buds, offering a satisfying mix of spiciness and tenderness. It was soft and easy to eat which made it a safe dish to serve children.
Mini Pizzas
Mini pizzas bring together the fun of making your own meal with the indulgence of cheesy toppings. These bite-sized delights were a hit at many birthday parties, where kids enjoyed customising their pizzas with their favourite ingredients. It also brings back late night pizza orders while studying together or doing a movie marathon on a stayover. The crispy crust, gooey cheese, and flavorful toppings make mini pizzas a nostalgic and enjoyable treat that’s perfect for Friendship Day.