The Hindu : Tamil Nadu News : Sumptuous catering pleases guests

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Sunday, Jan 20, 2008
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Tamil Nadu

Tamil Nadu

Sumptuous catering pleases guests

Food is the most important aspect in a wedding next only to witnessing the groom and bride engaged in ceremonial tying of knot. Food is one of the major expenses of the wedding reception and people make sure that they have enough food for all guests without spending too much money. People also take utmost care that food they serve during wedding is of good quality and delight all sections of guests.

The increasing demand for good quality of food led to the mushrooming growth of catering houses specialising in different cuisines. "Catering houses save our time and money. We are ensured of a good quality food" says Mrs Jacqueline, whose brother’s wedding has been fixed for next month. "All we need to do is to give them menu details and total number of guests. They take care of everything including serving" she says.

Mrs Balameenakshi has similar views. "My daughter’s wedding took place a few months ago and we had arranged for a catering company to prepare the food. The quality was very good and we didn’t feel any burden as they managed the entire event", she says, "When my wedding took place thirty years ago we had arranged for a cook, but we had to buy all the provisions and keep checking whether they are sufficient or in excess; it was an added pressure".

But how does one choose the right caterer for an event? It is important to do a lot of research, check references, and often request a sampling to make your final decision among the many catering services available. First of all check whether the catering company possesses valid license and fulfils all food safety principles.

Make a visit to the caterer’s place before signing the contract. The cooking place must be clean, provided with enough refrigeration space for large quantities of food. Check whether catering staff members follow good hygienic practices.

Ensure that the caterer store food at proper temperature. Food items that ought to be served chill must be stored in insulated containers that maintain less than 5°C. Hot foods can be served from chafing dishes or warming units that maintain the foods at 60°C or above.

Marriage is a major event; hence make sure to get the right person to cook the food and follow all safety measures to relish healthily the appetites of the guests, for, a person who has savoured a sumptuous meal showers blessings on the newly-wed couples.

Nanthini Dominique