My Last Meal: A Personal Journey Through Diverse Culinary Experiences

Have you ever wondered what might be your last meal if you could choose any dish from your lifetime experience? For me, it is a journey through various cultural cuisines, each with a unique story to tell. From the rich and creamy Eggs Benedict to the simple and comforting bread Upma, and the luxurious Filet Mignon with Champagne, let me share my exploration of these dishes.

The Crispy and Creamy: Eggs Benedict

Now, let's start with something that might make your mouth water just imagining it. Eggs Benedict! This is one of my go-to dishes, and it's a delicious one. However, it comes with a slight caveat: I must make sure my egg is not runny. The perfect balance of a crispy English muffin, the smoky flavor of Canadian bacon, and the creamy yolk mixed with the buttery lemon sauce creates absolute heaven. There's nothing like slicing a perfectly poached egg and drenching it in a tangy mayonnaise sauce. It's a feast for the senses and a true highlight of my culinary repertoire.

Comfort in Simplicity: Bread Upma

Very recently, I came across a dish called Bread Upma on Quora while reading about people's experiences of cooking during lockdown. It sounded intriguing, so I decided to give it a try. To my delight, it was incredibly yummy! Here's how to make it:

Dry roast a few pieces of bread until they are golden brown. Chop onions, tomatoes, and capsicum finely for added flavor and texture. Heat a pan with a little oil and add mustard seeds, green chillies, and ginger-garlic paste to give it a flavorful kick. Once the mustard seeds pop, add the onions and sauté until they change color. Add the capsicum and tomatoes, frying until the tomatoes turn soft and mushy. Season with turmeric, chili powder, garam masala, and salt as per your taste. Add chopped nuts for a crunch and let them cook for a while. Finally, add the roasted bread pieces and mix well. Eat it hot for an amazing taste experience!

Timeless Memories: Mom's Last Dish

There's something profoundly cherished about the last dish made lovingly by your mother. For me, it will always be the last dish that my mother prepared for me. The memories are not just about the food but about the warmth, care, and love that it carries. Each bite holds a sentimental value, reminding me of the bond we shared.

Refined Elegance: Japanese Sushi with Fresh Salmon

If sushi and seafood are your forte, then a plate of fresh salmon sushi is something you can't miss. A perfect blend of freshness and delicacy, sushi is more than just a food; it’s an experience that touches your senses. Imagine those impeccable pieces of raw salmon sitting on a bed of vinegared rice, garnished with a hint of wasabi and a touch of fresh cucumbers. The symmetry and artistry of sushi are mesmerizing, and each bite is a celebration of flavors in your mouth. It's a sumptuous way to send off my culinary travels, with the promise of another bite in my next life.

Luxurious Indulgence: Filet Mignon with Armand de Brignac Brut Gold Champagne

Now, let's move to something entirely different and indulgent. For an extremely luxurious and memorable last meal, a Filet Mignon is often the choice, paired with a bottle of fine Champagne. The rich, savory meat contrasts beautifully with the crisp, effervescent bubbles of the Champagne. It's not just about taste; it's about the experience of fine dining, the ambience, and the moment you savor every bite. A decade ago, such a dish would have cost me 6699.98, but the experience is timeless and unparalleled.

Revenge is Sweet

Not everyone shares the same peaceful end, and for some, the end is more about settling scores. If revenge is on your mind, the last meal might as well be a fitting finale to a life of bitterness. In the spirit of this unconventional choice, imagine a slow and painful demise for someone who has wronged you. This might not be the conventional route, but it’s a poignant thought process for those who have lost their peace of mind due to personal betrayals or injustices. However, remember, this is a thought exercise and not something to entertain in real life.

My Last Desire: River Ganga Water

From the mundane to the sacred, there are spiritual dimensions to a last meal, too. For individuals who believe in the divine or spiritual, achieving a state of tranquility and cleansing before the end of life can be profoundly important. In Hindu mythology, the River Ganga is revered, believed to possess the power to cleanse sins and act as a bridge to moksha. Imagining taking a sip of water from this sacred river symbolizes a wish for purity and spiritual elevation, making it a significant choice for a person who aspires to leave this world with a clear conscience and a spiritual connection.

Making a Last Meal Fun

While these are specific choices, the last meal is as personal as the person. Whether it’s a classic American favorite like McDonald's French Fries, which can be a delightful and simple choice, or a dish you’ve always wanted to try but never had the opportunity to, the essence is the same. The last meal is a chance to make the most of your remaining time, to savor the flavors, and to cherish the memories.

That being said, there's no right or wrong way to choose your last meal. It can be a complex mix of personal, cultural, and spiritual considerations. Ultimately, the last meal is a reflection of your journey, your experiences, and the lessons you've learned along the way.

What's your last meal?