What originated in Ancient Greece as a demonstration to guests that they were not about to be poisoned, the “toast” became the common custom we practice today. Toasts are used in multiple celebrations as well as to honor individuals both living and dead. In the 17th century, the word toast became associated with the custom by serving drinks with a spiced toast to improve the flavor of the drink.
Special occasions such as weddings, retirements, new endeavors and births invite the custom of offering goodwill, happiness, and prosperity to the honoree. There are also toasts for the dead when a loss for words is felt. A well made toast can contribute to any special moment with just a modicum of forethought, toast etiquette and appropriateness to the occasion.
The components of a toast includes the verbalization, the agreement, and the actual drinking or imbibing. The verbalization guidelines are simple. From a simple “cheers” to an eloquent short speech, a toast should be simple and from the heart. The person states the reason for the toast thus eliciting an agreement from the others present. The agreement is signified by each individual lifting their drinks into the air. This is often accompanied by confirming sentiments such as “Hear! Hear!” And finally the drinking of the beverage “seals” the toast. It may be as simple a quick sip, a long drought or the complete draining of the glass depending on the region.
In the United States and a few other countries, France, Canada, Australia, and Ireland, dessert is the last course of a meal. It is normally sweet and is commonly ice cream, cakes, cookies, pastries and fruits. In the United Kingdom and some commonwealth countries, such as India, the dessert is called a pudding, meaning any sweet dish following a meal. In some countries the word “afters” is used instead of dessert. In China sweets are served throughout the meal alternately with savory dishes, but the final dish is sweet.
It wasn’t until the 19th Century that desserts became commonplace in the West. Prior to then, desserts were only served by the aristocracy or for special meals such as Christmas. As the cost of sugar became more affordable, desserts became more common for the middleclass. In the United States desserts are served any time as a snack and as a treat for guests.
People who are diabetic or who are making an effort to remain on a low-carb diet can still enjoy desserts. Just remember that most recipes that are low-fat or fat-free have fillers loaded with carbohydrates. Some sugars are fine especially when eaten as part of a heart healthy diet. And it is important to exercise regularly. Also, pay attention to portion size; your portion size is as important as what you eat.
Almost every holiday in the West is saturated with sweets. Ice cream and cake are served at almost every birthday. Valentines Day is a time for chocolates. Easter comes with chocolate bunnies and candy eggs. Christmas and Thanksgiving call for a super meal with loads of desserts such as pies, cookies, cakes, and anything your imagination can cook up. In America we like our desserts.
