Being a child in the 1980s meant eating at a table and having simple, filling, and busy dinners. Most parents are busy working, doing homework, and having little time, hence meals had to be functional but did not lose the aspect of warmth. The issue of convenience foods was gaining momentum, but home cooking was not going to be ignored, particularly when it came to family dinners. Recipes were frequently transmitted, updated in the magazines, or chosen based on what was cheap and readily available. Such meals were not trying to impress, but trying to satisfy. The tastes were well known, the portions were massive, and the habits were reassuring. Even now, when recalling some of the dishes, one may find memories of the weekday evenings and some common tables and talks which took place on the plates of the food which could be trusted.
Meatloaf Night
Meatloaf was reliable and nutritious; it was prepared using minced meat, breadcrumbs and spices. It also stretched ingredients, nourished the whole body of people and generally came with mashed potatoes, being common on many dinner tables.
Spaghetti With Meat Sauce
It was simple to make a lot of spaghetti with boiled meat sauce. It warmed up successfully, was well received by most palates and became a dependable midweek meal in thousands of families.
Chicken and Rice
Chicken and rice were easy, cosy and versatile. Simmered, baked or cooked in a single pot, it was very warm and well-balanced, particularly on those evenings when families desired something soft and nourishing.
Fish Fingers and Peas
Comfort was added to the table with fish fingers and peas. They were crispy, light and easily cooked and were both eaten and enjoyed without much ado.
Beef Stew Supper
Stew of Beef with Potatoes and Carrots was stewed, and the kitchen was filled with good smells. It was cheap, filling and perfect for those nights when even the cold compelled everyone to come around the table.
Grilled Cheese and Soup
When time was short, those sandwiches and grilled cheese and tomato soup made for an easy dinner. The mixture was both comfortable and home-like, requiring little preparation and clean up, as well.
Fried Rice Leftovers
Fried rice can be done with the help of vegetables and rice that were left over. Put in a pan, it was a convenient meal that minimised waste and did not taste stale or disappointing.
Sausage and Potatoes
A plate of roasted sausages and a platter of pan-fried ones with potatoes were straightforwardly genuine. This was a simple dish in terms of ingredients that provided maximum flavour, something families could enjoy since it would be hearty and inexpensive.
Tuna Casserole
Tuna casserole was a mix of pasta, canned tuna and creamy sauce. It was baked until hot and a little bit crisp on top, and it was a cost-effective dish that frequently appeared on family menus.
Stuffed Bell Peppers
Colour and balance came with stuffed peppers full of rice and minced meat. They could be baked till tender, and felt a bit special without having to go out to the stores to buy them when most kitchens already have them available.
