Easy-to-Cook Meals for a Cultural Food Sharing Potluck

Let’s make sharing cultures easy, affordable, and fun!

🇵🇭 1. Filipino: Pancit Bihon (Stir-Fried Rice Noodles)

Why it works: Easy to prepare in large batches, budget-friendly, and symbolic of long life in Filipino culture.

🛍️ Shopping List:

• Bihon rice noodles

• Soy sauce & fish sauce

• Garlic, onion

• Shredded cabbage & carrots

• Chicken or pork (optional)

Where to buy:

Asian groceries, SM Hypermarket, or sari-sari stores.

Prep Time: 30–40 minutes
Serves: 6–8 people

🇮🇹 2. Italian: Caprese Pasta Salad

Why it works: No cooking beyond boiling pasta, and it’s always a hit at potlucks.

🛍️ Shopping List:

• Penne or fusilli pasta

• Cherry tomatoes

• Mozzarella balls or cubes

• Fresh basil

• Olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, pepper

Where to buy:

Any supermarket or deli section

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Serves: 6–8 people

🇮🇳 3. Indian: Chana Masala (Spiced Chickpeas)

Why it works: A hearty vegetarian dish with bold flavors, easy to make in one pot.

🛍️ Shopping List:

• Canned chickpeas

• Onion, garlic, ginger

• Canned tomatoes

• Garam masala or curry powder

• Fresh cilantro (optional)

Where to buy:

Indian groceries or international aisles in big supermarkets

Prep Time: 30–35 minutes
Serves: 6–10 people

🇲🇽 4. Mexican: Elote (Grilled or Boiled Corn with Spiced Mayo)

Why it works: Fun finger food with bold, customizable toppings.

🛍️ Shopping List:

• Fresh corn on the cob

• Mayonnaise

• Grated cheese (Cotija or Parmesan)

• Lime

• Chili powder or paprika

Where to buy:

Public markets or grocery stores

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Serves: 6–8 people

🇨🇳 5. Chinese: Fried Rice

Why it works: A one-wok dish using ingredients you already have—plus, it’s super filling.

🛍️ Shopping List:

• Cooked day-old rice

• Soy sauce, sesame oil

• Garlic, onions

• Mixed veggies (carrots, peas, corn)

• Scrambled egg and/or leftover meat

Where to buy:

Local groceries or supermarkets

Prep Time: 20–25 minutes
Serves: 6–10 people

🇫🇷 6. French: Mini Quiches (No Crust)

Why it works: You can make a tray and cut into squares—great for bite-sized sharing.

🛍️ Shopping List:

• Eggs

• Milk or cream

• Cheese (any type)

• Sautéed veggies or ham

• Salt, pepper, herbs (thyme or parsley)

Where to buy:

Any supermarket or wet market

Prep Time: 30–35 minutes
Serves: 8–12 small portions

🧁 7. Global Dessert: Banana Turon (Filipino Spring Roll)

Why it works: Sweet, crunchy, and easy to prep ahead of time.

🛍️ Shopping List:

• Saba bananas

• Lumpia wrappers

• Brown sugar

• Cooking oil

Where to buy:

Wet markets or Filipino grocery stores

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Serves: 10–12 pieces

🎯 Tips for a Successful Potluck Dish

• Choose ingredients that are easy to find in your area.

• Make sure your dish is portable and stays tasty at room temp.

• Include a label with dish name, country of origin, and dietary notes (e.g., vegan, spicy).

• Bring your own serving spoon and reheating instructions if needed.

✅ Quick Recap: 7 Easy Cultural Dishes to Bring