Did you know that 70% of partygoers indicate that a well-prepared snack platter is the most important element of a successful party? It is fascinating to realize how much the presentation of snacks and drinks can determine the atmosphere of an event. In this blog post, we will take you into the world of snack platters, an unmistakable addition to any party. You will learn what a snack platter exactly entails, why it is so popular and what to look for when purchasing one. Let us help you choose the perfect snack platter that will not only surprise your guests, but will also enhance the overall ambiance of your event.
What is a Borrelplank?
A snack board is more than just a wooden or plastic board; it is a culinary experience that invites you to be together and enjoy. This board is often filled with a variety of snacks that are perfect for a cozy drink or a party. Let's delve deeper into the typical ingredients, history and popularity of the snack board.
Typical Ingredients on a Snack Platter
When putting together a snack platter, it is important to choose a variety of flavors and textures. Here are some common ingredients that are often used:
- Cheeses: A good cheese platter usually contains different types of cheese. Think of:
- Brie: A soft, creamy cheese that pairs well with fruits such as figs or grapes.
- Gorgonzola: A blue cheese for lovers of spicy flavors.
- Edam: A mild, hard cheese that is popular with a wide audience.
- Sausages: A selection of meats is essential. Examples include:
- Salami: Strongly spiced sausage, perfect for lovers of savoury flavours.
- Chorizo: A Spanish sausage with a spicy kick, ideal for extra flavour.
- Olives: These little treats add a salty, savory flavor. Try varieties like Kalamata or green olives.
- Nuts: Not only are they healthy but they also bring a crunchy texture. Examples include:
- Almonds: Rich in protein and delicious as a snack.
- Walnuts: Perfect for a nutty, earthy flavor.
- Dipping sauces: A snack platter really comes to life with the right dips. Some popular choices are:
- Hummus: A creamy dip made from chickpeas.
- Tzatziki: A fresh Greek yoghurt dip with cucumber and garlic.
History of the Borrelplank
The borrelplank originates from the tradition of sharing food, which has been done for centuries in various cultures. The idea of presenting snacks on a plank originates from the Spanish tapas culture, where small dishes are served to share. In the Netherlands, the borrelplank has become increasingly popular in recent years, especially in social settings such as drinks, birthdays and other festive occasions.
Popularity of Borrelplanken in Social Settings
The snack platter is not only a trend, but also plays into the need for interaction and social connections. During a drink, guests can choose what they want to taste, which makes the atmosphere informal and accessible. This makes the snack platter ideal for:
- Birthday parties: A drinks platter can easily be adapted to the birthday boy or girl's preferences.
- Corporate events: It provides an easy way for networking without having guests focus on formal meals.
- Family gatherings: The diversity of flavors ensures that there is something for everyone.
Sample Drinking Board
Here's an example of how to put together a drinks platter:
| Ingredient | Sample Product | Comments |
|---|---|---|
| Cheese | Old Amsterdam Old Cheese | A popular Dutch cheese. |
| Sausage | Trevijano Chorizo | An authentic Spanish sausage. |
| Olives | Olives in oil from Olijfolie.nl | A mix of green and black olives. |
| Nuts | Nature Valley Crunchy Granola Bars | Perfect snacks for extra crunch. |
| Dipping sauce | Hummus from Hummus & Co | An organic and creamy option. |
By combining these ingredients, you create a snack platter that is not only attractive to look at, but also offers a variety of flavors that will appeal to everyone.
Why buy a snack board?
Having a snack board can be a real asset to any occasion. Whether you are organizing a birthday party, an informal gathering with friends or a business networking event, a snack board offers numerous advantages. In this article, we will discuss the most important advantages of a snack board and provide practical examples of how you can use it.
Create a Social Atmosphere
A snack platter has the power to bring people together. It provides an informal setting where guests can mingle freely and enjoy each other’s company. The variety of snacks invites conversation, naturally stimulating interaction between guests.
Example: Think of a drinks platter filled with artisanal cheeses from Beemster and fine charcuterie from Sausage & CoGuests can create their own combinations, leading to conversations about favorite flavors and preparation methods.
Easy to Prepare
One of the biggest advantages of a snack platter is the simplicity of preparation. You don't have to spend hours in the kitchen to create a tasty and attractive meal. With a few quality ingredients and a little creativity, you can have an impressive snack platter ready in no time.
Tips for Easy Preparation:
- Choose ready-made products: Many supermarkets offer a wide variety of snacks, such as Albert Heijn's own brand snack platter Whether the Gourmet Snack Board from Jumbo.
- Mix and match: Combine different types of cheese, meats, nuts and fruit for a varied offering.
Visually Appealing Presentation
A well-presented snack platter is not only tasty, but also a feast for the eyes. Using different colours and textures can create an appealing visual experience that will whet your guests' appetites.
Presentation Tips:
- Use a nice plank: A wooden cutting board from Paderno or a marble serving platter of Riviera Maison can really take the presentation to the next level.
- Vary in height: Add a few small bowls for dips or olives to add more depth to the presentation.
Versatility for Different Events
Drinks boards are extremely versatile and can be adapted to different types of events. Whether it is a birthday party, a wedding or a business meeting, there is always a drinks board that fits the occasion.
| Event | Type: Snack board | Recommended Products |
|---|---|---|
| Birthday party | Cozy drinks platter | Old Amsterdam, Liptau cheese |
| Wedding | Luxury drinks board | Truffle cheese, Prosciutto di Parma |
| Business meeting | Professional snack board | Various cheeses, Spicy nut mix |
| Informal drinks | Simple snack platter | Hummus, vegetable sticks, tortilla chips |
What should you pay attention to when buying a snack board?
When choosing the perfect snack board, there are several factors to consider. These range from material choice to design, and from size to price. Below, we discuss these aspects in detail, so that you can make the right choice well-prepared.
Choice of materials
The choice of material is crucial, as it affects the durability, maintenance and appearance of the cheese board. Here are some common materials with their pros and cons:
- Wooden snack boards
- Example: The Bamboo Snack Board from Eozen.
- Advantages: Durable, gives a warm appearance, and is often easy to work with.
- Cons: Can be susceptible to scratches and stains, and requires regular maintenance.
- Bamboo snack boards
- Example: The Bamboo Cutting Board from Brabantia.
- Advantages: Environmentally friendly, lightweight, and very strong.
- Disadvantages: Can sometimes be less stylish than other types of wood.
- Plastic snack boards
- Example: The Plastic Snack Board from Joseph Joseph.
- Advantages: Easy to clean, often dishwasher safe and available in various colours.
- Disadvantages: Less 'natural' feel and may be less durable in the long run.
Format
The size of the snack board plays an important role in its functionality and presentation. Consider the following aspects:
- Size
- A small drinks platter (for example 30x20 cm) is ideal for intimate gatherings.
- A larger drinks platter (for example 50x30 cm) is perfect for larger groups and offers more space for a variety of snacks.
- Form
- Round: Suitable for a cozy, informal look. For example, the Round Snack Board from A Little Lovely Company.
- Square/Rectangular: Provides more space for different types of snacks. The Rectangular Oak Snack Board from Wood & Stone is an excellent example here.
Price
The price of a snack board can vary greatly depending on the material and finish. Here is an indicative price range:
- Budget options: From €15, for example the Plastic Snack Board from IKEA.
- Middle class: Between €30-€70, such as the Wooden snack board from Gusta.
- High-end optics: Above €100, for example the Oak snack board from Dutchdeluxes which is handmade and has a unique design.
Design and Style
The design of the snack board should fit your personal style and the theme of your party. Think about:
- Colors and finishes
- Choose a natural wood finish for a rustic look.
- Opt for a colorful plastic shelf for a playful atmosphere.
- Theme
- For a Mediterranean evening you can Shelf of Silver Blue use with olives and tapas.
- A winter drink is suitable for a wooden plank with a warm appearance, such as the Wooden snack board from Kookpunt.
Additional Features
Some snack boards have additional features that can enhance the user experience:
- Built-in dip bowls: Some models, such as the Le Creuset snack platter, have special compartments for sauces and dips.
- Adjustable parts: The Bamboo snack board from Westmark has a pull-out section for extra space.
Comparison Table
| Material | Examples | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wood | Eozen Bamboo Snack Board | Sustainable, warm appearance | Maintenance required |
| Bamboo | Brabantia Bamboo Cutting Board | Environmentally friendly, strong | Less stylish |
| Plastic | Joseph Joseph Plastic Snack Board | Dishwasher safe, colorful | Less natural feeling |
By considering these factors, you can choose a drinks platter that is not only functional but also aesthetically appealing and perfectly matches your parties and personal style.
The Perfect Snack Board for Every Occasion
In conclusion, choosing the right snack platter is crucial to the success of your parties. By considering the types of dishes you want to offer, the occasion, and your personal taste, you can create a snack platter that is not only visually appealing, but also offers a delicious taste sensation. It is important to select a snack platter that matches the atmosphere of your event and the preferences of your guests. With these considerations in mind, you are well on your way to finding the perfect snack platter that will make your parties unforgettable.
