Fiambre

“Fiambre, a salad made from cold cuts, all kinds of meats, fish, vegetables and pickled vegetables, is served on November 1st, after a visit to the cemetery. Fiambre is a cold meal of Spanish origin, possibly from the Extremadura (Spain). Fiambre is a very special meal for Guatemalans and it is only available on November 1st and 2nd during Day of the Dead festivities. Fiambre can include over 50 ingredients.

… Legend has it that a hostess had planned a sumptuous dinner for quite a large gathering. She planned the meal herself and made extensive preparations. Then she instructed her maid on just how she wanted it served.

The story goes that the maid’s lover called at the back door. Time passed and the guests arrived. At the very last minute the maid realized it was time to serve, panicked, forgot all her instructions and threw all the various foods together on a single large platter.

The meal was great success, and a near disaster became a custom. The amounts of the various foods should be judged according to the number of guests. The single platter of food, served with rolls and tortillas, makes up the complete meal.”

This story is published in “COLD CUTS” by John Knight.