Tiffin is a term that's used in India and other countries to describe light meals or snacks. It can refer to any snack that comes in a container, as well as snacks like cheese and nuts. However, it is often associated with lunch. It is usually eaten around 3 p.m. and consists of a range of savoury and light dishes.
The origins of the word tiffin date back to the early nineteenth century, when the British colonial masters in India would skip their usual siestas in favour of a light midday meal. As they were often away from home, tiffin boxes became the best way to carry their own home-cooked meals.
Tiffins are traditionally made from stacked metal boxes that snap together, forming a tiffin box. Although they are not intended to be used on the stovetop or for cooking, they can be stored in containers that make great storage containers for snacks at home.
There are many options for Tiffins. They are often round or cylindrical, and have a side clip for carrying. Tiffins can also take the shape of plates, bowls or individual serving dishes. You can even use the lids of tiffins as plates. These tiffins are great for serving leftovers at home or taking to the restaurant.
The history behind tiffin is not an easy one. It has to do with the Indian population's preference for light meals, and is often a result of their eating habits. It is also related to the British Raj's history. Tiffin originated in India but is now used as a synonym in Britain for light luncheons.
In India, tiffin is typically served as a light lunch at about three o'clock in the afternoon. Tiffin is a casual snack and generally contains less spice. It can be anything from savoury foods such as lentil crepes and rice dumplings, to sweet items such as halwa and sundaes.
Many Indian families have a custom of asking children to bring their lunchboxes. If a child doesn't bring a lunchbox to school, his teacher might threaten him. This is an insult to the host and a sign the hospitality is not upto the mark. A child who doesn't bring a tiffin bag to lunch may become hungry.
Mumbai residents call Tiffin a light lunch or a packed lunch. Mumbai Tiffin Suppliers' Organization organizes this system. This association collects home-made food from workers and delivers it to them. Many Bollywood films feature a tiffin theme.
Today, tiffins can be found in restaurants, as well as in the homes of Indian people. They can also be purchased by dabbawalas (delivery men who collect food from houses and deliver it to their workplace). A traditional round metal box is also available, as well as a stackable set of compartments in stainless steel with handles.