You’re probably not alone in your quest for the perfect snack platter. Did you know that research shows that over 70% of people say that a well-composed snack platter can really make or break an event? Whether it’s a cozy evening with friends, a festive occasion or a relaxing Sunday afternoon, the right snacks can make all the difference. In this blog post, we’ll discuss how to create the ideal snack platter with delicious homemade snacks that will not only surprise your guests, but also put your creativity and culinary skills in the spotlight. Get inspired and discover how you can customize your snack platter to your personal taste and the occasion!
What is a Borrelplank?
A snack platter is a beautifully presented selection of finger food typically served with drinks, often in an informal setting. It is a popular way to get together with friends, family or colleagues, offering a variety of flavours and textures that enhance the get-together.
Origin of the Borrelplank
The tradition of serving snacks with drinks has its roots in Dutch culture, where it is common to enjoy a drink with a matching snack in a café or at home. The borrelplank has found its way into modern social gatherings and has become an essential part of parties, drinks and even business events. The rise of the borrelplank can partly be attributed to the popularity of tapas in Spain, where small dishes are shared between guests.
Different Types of Snack Boards
There are countless variations of snack boards, depending on the occasion and the guests' preferences. Here are some popular types:
- Cheese board: Contains various types of cheeses such as Gouda, Brie, and blue cheese, often accompanied by nuts, grapes, and crackers. Brands such as Old Amsterdam and Leerdammer offer excellent cheeses that are perfect for a cheese board.
- meat board: A selection of different meats such as salami, prosciutto and chorizo. Brands such as Delifrance and Fleury Michon have a wide range of meats that are ideal for a drinks platter.
- Vegetarian platter: This includes various vegetables, dips and spreads such as hummus, guacamole and tzatziki. Brands such as Hummus & Friends and Dips & Snacks offer delicious and healthy options.
- Fish board: Various fish products are presented here, such as smoked salmon, anchovies and tuna spread. Brands such as Smokey Joe's and Fisherman's Friend are known for their quality fish products.
Social Aspects of the Borrelplank
Sharing a snack platter is not only about enjoying food, but also about creating a social atmosphere. Sharing snacks together promotes conversation and connection between people. There are several ways in which a snack platter can stimulate social interaction:
- Cosiness: Creating a snack platter can be a communal activity, where guests can bring their favorite snacks and drinks. This makes for an interactive experience.
- Freedom of choice: A drinks platter offers guests the opportunity to choose what they want to taste, which reduces the pressure to have to eat or drink something.
- Variety: The variety of snacks on a drinks platter ensures that there is something for everyone, making guests feel more at ease and open to new flavors.
Sample Drinking Board
An example of a well-composed drinks platter could look like this:
| Snack | Brand/Product | Number |
|---|---|---|
| Gouda cheese | Old Amsterdam | 100g |
| Brie | President | 150g |
| Salami | Delifrance | 100g |
| Prosciutto | Fleury Michon | 100g |
| Hummus | Hummus & Friends | 200g |
| Guacamole | Avocado Co. | 150g |
| Whole wheat crackers | Wasa | 100g |
| Grapes | Private label | 200g |
By creating a snack platter with a selection of these snacks, you create an inviting and tasty experience for your guests. It is not only a way to satisfy hunger, but also a way to enjoy the moments we share together.
The Basics of a Snack Board
A snack platter is not just a collection of snacks, but a work of art that invites guests to taste and enjoy. In this section, we will discuss the essential elements that will take your snack platter to the next level. We will focus on the choice of snacks, the diversity of flavors and textures, and the presentation.
Essential Snacks for Your Snack Board
Savory Snacks
Savory snacks are the basis of every snack board. Here are some recommendations:
- Cheese: Go for a mix of flavors and textures. For example:
- Old Amsterdam: a strong, old cheese for the enthusiast.
- Brie de Meaux: a creamy French cheese that goes well with nuts and fruit.
- Meats: Various meats add a salty kick to your platter. Consider:
- Serrano ham: thin slices of this Spanish ham are always a hit.
- Salami: the Citterio Salami is an excellent choice with a rich flavor.
- Olives: A mix of green and black olives, such as the Kalamata olives, adds a savory, salty flavor.
Sweet Snacks
Sweet elements provide a balanced experience. Some options include:
- Chocolate: Choose from different types, such as:
- Tony's Chocolonely in different flavors for a local touch.
- Lindt truffles for a luxurious experience.
- Fresh Fruit: Think strawberries, grapes and figs. They are not only refreshing but also visually appealing.
- Nuts: Roasted nuts, such as Pistachio and Almonds, provide a crunchy texture and a sweet or salty taste.
Importance of Texture and Color
A well-composed snack platter should not only have variety in flavors, but also in textures and colors. This makes it more attractive and inviting for your guests.
Texture
- Crispy: Chips, crackers (such as Tuc) and raw vegetables provide a nice crunch.
- Creamy: The combination of brie or other creamy cheeses provides a delicious contrast to the crunchy elements.
- Soft: Think of pate or hummus, which can be served with bread or vegetable strips.
Colour
- Green: For example, add cucumber and celery.
- Red: Strawberries and tomatoes for a fresh touch.
- Yellow: Cheese and, for example, yellow pepper for more color variation.
Presentation of your snack platter
A beautiful presentation is crucial to creating an inviting atmosphere. Here are some tips for a successful presentation:
Use of Plates and Bowls
- Wooden Plank: A rustic wooden plank gives an authentic look. Think of a plank of Bamboo which is not only beautiful, but also sustainable.
- Porcelain Bowls: For dips such as hummus or tapenade, small porcelain bowls are ideal.
- Glass Bottles: For example, use glass bottles for olive oil or balsamic vinegar to add an extra dimension.
Layout
- Group: Place snacks of the same type together for an organized look.
- Elevation: Use different heights by placing some snacks in a bowl or on a stand.
- Herbs and Decoration: Add sprigs of rosemary or thyme for a fragrant and visually appealing finish.
Examples of Brands and Products
To help you put together your perfect drinks platter, we have listed a few recommendations:
| Snack type | Recommended Product | Brand |
|---|---|---|
| Cheese | Old Amsterdam | Old Amsterdam |
| Meats | Citterio Salami | Citterio |
| Olives | Kalamata Olives | Various brands |
| Chocolate | Tony's Chocolonely | Tony's |
| Nuts | Roasted Almonds | Various brands |
By considering these elements, you can create a snack platter that is not only tasteful, but also pleasing to the eye. Creating a snack platter can be a very personal and creative experience, keeping your own preferences and those of your guests in mind.
Homemade Snacks: Recipes and Ideas
In this section, we will delve deeper into different recipes for homemade snacks that are perfect for the snack board. These snacks are not only delicious, but also easy to make. We provide step-by-step instructions and variations for each recipe, so you can easily put together an impressive snack board.
Dips to Seduce
A good snack platter often starts with some tasty dips. Here are some recipes that are guaranteed to please.
Hummus
Ingredients:
- 1 can chickpeas (400 g), drained
- 2 tablespoons tahini (for example from Alnatura)
- 2 cloves garlic, pressed
- 3 tablespoons olive oil (for example from Bertolli)
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation:
- Mix all ingredients in a food processor.
- Blend until smooth and season with salt and pepper.
- Serve with vegetables, pita or homemade chips.
Avocado Dip
Ingredients:
- 2 ripe avocados
- 1 lime, juice
- 1 clove garlic, pressed
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation:
- Mash the avocados in a bowl and add the lime juice and garlic.
- Mix well and season with salt and pepper.
- Serve with tortilla chips or raw vegetables.
Delicious Snacks
Besides dips, there are many snacks that can enrich your snack board. A few suggestions:
Cheese balls
Ingredients:
- 200 g cream cheese (e.g. Philadelphia)
- 100 g grated cheese (such as Gouda or Cheddar)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Breadcrumbs for the coating
Preparation:
- Mix the cream cheese, grated cheese and garlic powder until smooth.
- Form small balls from the mixture and roll them in the breadcrumbs.
- Bake the balls in the oven at 180°C for 15 minutes until golden brown.
Mini Quiches
Ingredients:
- 1 roll of puff pastry (for example from Tante Fanny)
- 4 eggs
- 200 ml crème fraîche
- Vegetables of your choice (such as spinach, peppers or mushrooms)
- Grated cheese
Preparation:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C.
- Line a muffin pan with puff pastry.
- Beat the eggs and mix them with the crème fraîche, vegetables and cheese.
- Fill the puff pastry molds with the mixture and bake for 20-25 minutes.
Homemade Chips
Homemade chips are a healthy and crunchy addition to your snack platter. Here's an easy recipe:
Potato chips
Ingredients:
- 4 large potatoes
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C.
- Cut the potatoes into thin slices with a mandolin.
- Mix the potato slices with olive oil, salt and pepper.
- Place them on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
Variations and Tips
- Hummus Variations: Add roasted peppers or olives for an extra flavor boost.
- Cheese balls: Try different spices like Italian herbs or paprika powder for variety.
- Mini Quiches: Experiment with different types of cheese and vegetables, such as feta and sun-dried tomatoes.
With these recipes and ideas, you can create an irresistible snack platter that is both easy to make and will impress your guests. Enjoy preparing and sharing these delicious homemade snacks!
Conclusion: The Perfect Ending of Your Drinks Experience
In conclusion, creating the ideal snack platter with homemade snacks is a great way to express your creativity in the kitchen and create unforgettable moments with friends and family. By experimenting with different flavors and ingredients, you can add a personal touch to your snack platter. Remember that the pleasure of preparing and sharing meals is just as important as the flavors themselves. So put on your apron, let your creativity run wild and enjoy the process. Get started and create your own unique snack platter that will surprise everyone!
