b'food mattersBringing the Block TogetherPot-lucky Pulled Pork SlidersBY ILYSSE RIMALOVSKIA potluck spread offers something to satisfy every guests cravingsI magine buffet tables covered with plattersserve themselves without feeling crowded. Wheth-of pulled pork sliders, cole slaw and macer indoors or out, create comfortable hangout ar-and cheese. At the dessert table, chocolateeas to keep a flow and encourage conversation.chip cookies join fruit salad and NatalesEntertainmentsugared donuts. At the drink station, wa- Help your guests feel welcome with additional ter, iced tea and lemonade are on the tabletouches. If you have new neighbors or acquain-whilecoolersfilledwithbeer,wineandtances, name tags or a quick icebreaker can help soda are underneath. everyone get to know each other.Potluck dining, in which each guest brings aPlayyourfavoritebackgroundmusic.You dish to share, is rooted in communal eating prac- couldalsoarrangealiveperformanceifyour tices around the world. guests are musically inclined.Historically, these were community gatheringsIfyourpotluckisoutdoors,encourageyard in which people brought simple hearty dishes thatgames such as cornhole, have a crafts table or set couldfeedacrowd.Thesemealswereessentialup a bouncy house for the kids. The fun will likely for building connection and cooperation withoutcontinue on its own into the evening.burdening any one individual. Create a welcoming invite using a group chat or Deciding what to cook or bring is part of the fun.online form such as SignUpGenius. Ask guests toWrap It UpThe term potluck implies that the menu is likelyindicate what they plan to bring and/or offer sug- Thank everyone for their contributions. Take unknown. Whether among neighbors, friends orgestions. Ask about dietary restrictions and aller- a group photo to commemorate the event. Lastly, colleagues, indoors or out, potlucks provide oppor- gies so everyone can feel comfortable. encourage guests to take home any leftovers (have tunities to share cooking styles and recipes, yieldingFor a block party, you may choose to collect aplasticbags a variety of unexpected flavors and experiences.small dollar amount per family to purchase itemsavailable)and Ifyourehostingororganizingforthefirstfor the group such as entertainment, paper goods,to lend a hand time or seeking inspiration, heres how to plan abottled water, condiments or trays of fried chicken. with cleanup.memorable potluck for everyoneregardless ofThe Menu Plan Ifeveryone age, skills or resources. It just might become anAs the host, guide your guests to sign up forenjoyedthem-annual tradition. differentcategoriesthatbalancethemeal(e.g.,selves,suggest Whats the vibe? appetizers, mains, sides, desserts or drinks). Thisaprogressive Start by considering the purpose of the pot- will prevent multiple dishes of the same thing anddinnernext luck. Is it a casual get-together, a block party orensure variety. The host might provide the entretime for a next- Sean and Elaine Butkus know themed event? Naming the event makes it easierwhile guests supplement the meal with everythinglevel shared ex- that sugared doughnuts from forgueststodecidewhattobring.Aseasonalelse. Foods served at room temperature are easiestperiencefilledNatales Summit Bakery are a theme might be Whats growing in your garden?to manage. withdeliciousblock party favorite.A cuisine-based theme might be a backyard BBQPro Tips foodandgood or Cinco de Mayo. A family friendly block partycompany. might suggest making favorite finger foods. Label dishes with ingredient lists, especially ifIlysse Rimalovski is a home chef, writer and culinary Get the word out they contain allergens such as nuts, dairy or strongproducer living in Maplewood with a background in spices. Have plenty of plates, cups, napkins andspecialty food, media and design. Visit Ilysses Facebook Beclearaboutthedate,timeandlocation.utensils on hand. Set up buffet-style so people canpage, Ilysse Ideally, or email forilysse@icloud.com.34/ matters magazine / hearth + home 2025'