I recently learned that my cousin graduated with a Master of Science in Social Psychology. I probably never mentioned I had a cousin before, so now you know!
To celebrate, she threw a graduation party and asked me to handle the desserts. The theme combined Buddha and sushi with a tropical twist—fitting for a Caribbean yoga enthusiast. She even has a website dedicated to her yoga journey.
For the dessert table I prepared two types of bavarois: a mango and passion fruit bavarois, and a coconut bavarois with a chocolate crèmeux filling. Alongside the mini bavarois I made small rolls—some filled with leftover mango and passion fruit bavarois and others filled with chocolate and strawberries. These sweet rolls were my playful take on sushi. I also baked sugar-and-cinnamon muffins, brownies, and a selection of cute cookies. I experimented with sweet sushi as well; it looked appealing but didn’t fully win me over. A few guests enjoyed it, so I served it, but it needs some refinement before I’d include it again.
In addition to my desserts, the party featured real sushi prepared by her sister, noodles, petjil (vegetables with peanut sauce, a Surinamese specialty), spring rolls, chicken teriyaki, a big fruit bowl, and plenty of drinks. There was more than enough food for everyone—typical for my family. I rarely leave a gathering without a doggie bag!
My cousin’s friends are fun and warm, and when you mix them with our lively family, you get a memorable celebration. Most importantly, my cousin had a wonderful time, which made the day a success.