If you’re in the beginning stages of planning a military-themed celebration, you undoubtedly want to ensure that every detail contributes to a respectful tribute to the current and/or former military personnel in your life — and you probably already know that military-themed food should be part of this particular picture. However, you may be struggling to come up with ideas — and that’s why we’ve compiled the following list of eight party food ideas to serve at military-themed festivities.
1- Camouflage Cake
Using green, brown, rust-red, and black icing, decorate a flat or layer cake with camouflage patterns. Military-themed cake toppers such as tanks, soldiers, and American flags bring an extra layer of authenticity to the scene and make the cake into a true centerpiece.
2- GI Joe Jello
Use red, white, and blue jello to create layered jello cups that represent the American flag. You can also make layered cups in camouflage patterns to resemble military uniforms. Additionally, consider serving layered jello cups in patriotic red, white, and blue colors to represent the American flag.
3- Meals Ready to Eat (MRE) Buffet
To pay the ultimate homage to the iconic rations that have fueled military members in the field, create a buffet using fare inspired by classic MREs, such as chicken and rice, savory beef stews, and filling pasta dishes. Use military-style mess kit plates and utensils to emphasize the military camp dining experience.
4- Field Rations
A field ration section should include easy-to-eat finger foods such as sliders, sandwiches, and hot dogs. Make sure to provide a variety of condiments and toppings so that guests can customize their field rations to meet individual preferences.
5- Purple Heart Cupcakes
Purple Heart cupcakes are a sweet way to make a significant tribute to the military men and women who were wounded while in service to their country. All you need for this simple but meaningful addition to the dessert table are your choice of cupcakes, some purple frosting, and enough candy red hearts to top each cupcake.
6- Dog Tag Cookies
All you need is a basic sugar cookie recipe, a cookie cutter in the shape of a military dog tag, and red, white, and blue tubed icing to add the final touch. You can use the icing to spell out the names of the guests of honor or create designs inspired by military ranks and insignia.
7- Mess Hall Chili
Every mess hall cook has his own version of chili, but the common denominator is that they all strive for that homespun flavor that brings comfort to servicemen and women stationed far from home.
8- Canteen Cooler
Military-themed festivities wouldn’t be complete without the quintessential refreshment station stocked with a variety of canned and bottled beverages. Disposable drink receptacles in the shape of classic canteen cups
Don’t forget to round out the ambiance with finishing touches such as music and military decor like flags of the different branches and challenge coins, and don’t be afraid to encourage your guests to wear their uniforms. Make memories that last by providing themed party favors, digital photos and videos, and a guestbook where guests can leave heartfelt messages.
