A Special Meal You Had

🗂️ Part 2 – Cue Card

🗣️ Sample Answer  (2-Minute Response)

One of the most special meals I’ve ever had was a traditional Japanese dinner at my grandmother’s house during New Year’s Eve last year. In Japan, this celebration is known as Oshōgatsu, and food plays a major role in the tradition.

My entire family gathered at her house in Kyoto, and she had prepared an elaborate meal called osechi ryōri. These are carefully arranged dishes served in layered boxes, with each food item having a symbolic meaning. For example, black soybeans represent health, a rolled omelette symbolises knowledge, and prawns stand for long life.

We sat around the table, and before we started eating, my grandmother explained the meaning of each dish. That made the meal not just delicious, but also meaningful. We also had mochi soup (ozōni), which varies by region and is always part of our New Year tradition.

The atmosphere was warm, with everyone wearing traditional clothes, chatting, and reflecting on the past year. What made it truly special was that it connected us—not just to each other, but also to our culture and ancestors. In a modern, fast-paced world, it felt like time slowed down for a while.

I will always remember that evening as a moment of love, tradition, and gratitude.

🔁 Part 3: Follow-Up Questions

1. Do people in your country enjoy eating together?
Absolutely. In Japan, sharing meals is an important social practice. It’s not only about food but also about showing respect, bonding, and maintaining traditions.

2. What kinds of occasions are associated with special meals in your country?
New Year, weddings, birthdays, and festivals like Obon usually include special meals. These are times when families come together to enjoy traditional dishes.

3. How is eating at home different from eating at a restaurant?
Eating at home often feels more relaxed and personal, while restaurants offer convenience and variety. Home-cooked meals usually reflect love and effort.

4. Why do people like to celebrate with food?
Food brings people together and enhances the mood of any celebration. It’s also tied to emotions and memory, so certain meals remind us of special events.

5. Are there any food traditions that young people are not following anymore?
Yes, many young people prefer fast food or Western dishes over traditional ones, especially in urban areas. This is slowly causing some customs to fade.

6. Should children be taught how to cook?
Definitely, cooking is a basic life skill. It promotes independence, creativity, and a healthier lifestyle, while also helping to preserve traditional recipes.

7. How has globalisation affected food culture in your country?
It has increased variety but also decreased the popularity of some native dishes. While we now have access to a wide range of world cuisines, local food habits have undergone significant changes.

8. Do men and women cook equally in your country?
Traditionally, cooking was a woman’s role, but that’s changing. More men, especially younger ones, are taking an interest in cooking, both as a hobby and a profession.

9. What is the role of presentation in special meals?
In Japanese culture, presentation is crucial. Meals are carefully arranged to please both the eyes and the palate. The use of colours, seasonal themes, and plating adds depth of meaning.

10. How does food reflect culture?
Food tells us about a region’s history, values, climate, and way of life. For instance, Japan’s emphasis on freshness and balance is deeply ingrained in its culture.

Top 10 Topic Vocabulary – A Special Meal You Had