Guests usually refrain from beginning the meal until everyone has been served and the hostess has lifted her fork. Therefore only a small portion may be prepared for each guest. It may be helpful to observe the hosts to see how much rice they serve themselves. Coffee is usually served with dessert. International visitors who are accustomed to refusing the second helping a number of times should realize that the offer may be extended only once.
Guests then accept or refuse the offer, as they wish.
American men often assist women with food preparation and cleaning tasks. At an informal dinner, for example, the host may prepare the steak, make the salad, or remove dishes from the table. Household chores such as dishwashing, cleaning and laundry are often shared on the basis of what needs to be done at the time, rather than on the basis of whether it is considered to be the man's or woman's role. Individuals receive further assistance in the kitchen from a variety of electrical appliances ranging from a blender or food processor to a dishwasher. These machines substitute for expensive household help.