From Grandpa’s Kitchen to the Office Table

A family favorite growing up for me was my Grandpa Dale's famous "hot eggs." His small kitchen would come alive with the aromas of simmering spicy goodness and percolating coffee, drawing aunts, uncles, and cousins together. Each person called out their order—“two over easy with two slices of rye!”—as anticipation filled the air. Plates were delivered fresh, accompanied by a 10-ounce glass of cold beer from the pony keg in the garage, setting the stage for a day of cards, presents, and laughter.

That memory of connection over food is a reminder of how powerful shared meals can be—not only within families but also in the workplace. During the holiday season, breakrooms transform into hubs of warmth and camaraderie, with potlucks and gatherings celebrating the diverse culinary traditions of the team. From deviled eggs to bowls of spicy curry, and turkey sandwiches with cranberry spread to secret family recipes, these meals do more than satisfy hunger—they bring people together.

Breaking Bread, Building Connections

Food has a way of breaking down barriers. A potluck or holiday meal provides an opportunity for colleagues to connect beyond job titles and deadlines. Sharing a dish creates space for storytelling. Someone might explain how their grandmother’s sweet potato casserole has been a family tradition for decades or how their tamales remind them of celebrations back home. These conversations reveal shared experiences and deepen understanding, building bonds that carry over into daily work life.

In today’s fast-paced work environments, it’s easy to overlook the importance of human connection. Shared meals create moments to pause, laugh, and enjoy each other’s company. They offer a chance to celebrate successes, acknowledge challenges, and reinforce a sense of community.

Strengthening Teams Through Shared Experiences

When employees contribute a dish to a potluck, they’re sharing more than food—they’re sharing a piece of themselves. This act of participation fosters a sense of belonging and appreciation. Whether it’s a simple fruit platter or an intricate family recipe, every dish becomes part of the collective experience.

These gatherings also provide opportunities for team members to discover common ground. A laugh over a colleague’s culinary experiment or a shared love for a particular dish can create inside jokes and lasting memories. These small moments of connection translate into stronger collaboration and a more cohesive team dynamic.

Celebrating Diversity Through Food

One of the most beautiful aspects of shared meals is the diversity they bring to the table. The variety of dishes reflects the unique backgrounds and traditions of the team. It’s a celebration of individuality within the context of a shared experience.

For someone, it might be their first time trying baklava or a spicy curry. These moments of curiosity and openness foster empathy and understanding. In a world often divided by differences, food serves as a unifying force, reminding us of what we have in common: the joy of sharing a meal and the stories that come with it.

A Recipe for Connection

As the holiday season fills breakrooms with the aroma of homemade dishes, it’s worth reflecting on the power of these moments. Food brings people together, creating opportunities for connection and camaraderie. Whether it’s a cherished family recipe or a simple dish brought in to share, the act of gathering around a table strengthens relationships and fosters a sense of belonging.

Grandpa Dale’s "hot eggs" were more than just breakfast—they were the kickoff to a day of connection and laughter. Bringing that spirit into the workplace through shared meals can create similar memories and strengthen the bonds within your team.

Grandpa Dale’s Hot Eggs Recipe:

• 4 cans diced tomatoes

• 5 large cloves minced garlic

• 1 medium onion, diced

• 2 jalapeños, diced with seeds

• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

• 2 teaspoons Tabasco hot sauce

• 2 teaspoons salt

Instructions:

1. In a large pot over medium heat, combine diced tomatoes, garlic, onion, and jalapeños.

2. Stir in Worcestershire sauce, Tabasco, and salt.

3. Simmer on low heat for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. Serve hot alongside eggs and rye toast.

This holiday season, as the smells of homemade dishes fill the breakroom, take the time to savor not just the food but the connections it fosters. Whether it’s a cherished family recipe or a new creation, the act of sharing a meal brings us closer together, turning ordinary workdays into memories we carry with us for years to come.