If you want to introduce your foreign friends to the Filipino culture and cuisine, there is no better way than hosting a boodle fight. A boodle fight is a communal dining experience that originated from the Philippine military, where soldiers of different ranks would eat together using their bare hands from a long table covered with banana leaves and loaded with various dishes.
To host a boodle fight, you will need some basic preparations and ingredients. Here are some tips to help you plan your boodle fight:
• Choose a long table that can accommodate all your guests. You can also use several smaller tables and arrange them in a row. Cover the table with banana leaves, which you can buy from Asian markets or online. Make sure to wash and dry the leaves before using them.
• Prepare some water jugs or bowls with soap and towels for washing your hands before and after eating. You can also provide some disposable gloves or utensils for those who are not comfortable eating with their hands.
• Select the dishes that you want to serve on your boodle fight. There are no strict rules on what to include, but the most common ones are rice, grilled meats, fried fish, seafood, vegetables, fruits, and sauces. You can also add some noodles, salads, soups, or desserts if you like. You can cook the dishes yourself or order them from Filipino restaurants or caterers. You can also ask your guests to bring some dishes to share.
• Arrange the dishes on the table in an attractive and appetizing way. You can place the rice in the center and the other dishes on top or on the sides. You can also use some plates or bowls for the sauces or soups. You can decorate the table with some flowers, candles, or flags for a festive touch.
• Invite your guests to join you at the table and explain to them the concept and etiquette of a boodle fight. Tell them to wash their hands first and then use their right hand to get food from the table and bring it to their mouth. Tell them to avoid touching other people’s food or plates with their hands. Tell them to enjoy the food and have fun.
• Invite your guests to join you at the table and explain to them the concept and etiquette of a boodle fight. Tell them to wash their hands first and then use their right hand to get food from the table and bring it to their mouth. Tell them to avoid touching other people’s food or plates with their hands. Tell them to enjoy the food and have fun.
• Start the boodle fight by saying “Ready, set, go!” or “Magsalu-salo tayo!” (Let’s eat together!). You can also say a prayer or toast before eating if you wish. Encourage your guests to try different dishes and flavors and compliment them on their skills. Share stories and jokes with your guests and make them feel welcome and comfortable.• Start the boodle fight by saying “Ready, set, go!” or “Magsalu-salo tayo!” (Let’s eat together!). You can also say a prayer or toast before eating if you wish. Encourage your guests to try different dishes and flavors and compliment them on their skills. Share stories and jokes with your guests and make them feel welcome and comfortable.
• End the boodle fight by thanking your guests for coming and sharing the meal with you. You can also give them some souvenirs or gifts to remember the experience. You can also take some photos or videos of your boodle fight and share them on social media.
Hosting a boodle fight is a unique and memorable way of celebrating Filipino culture and cuisine with your foreign friends. It is an opportunity to share your heritage, hospitality, and happiness with them. It is also a chance to discover new tastes, learn new things, and make new friends. So what are you waiting for? Plan your boodle fight today!