Vegetarian Vs. Meat Drinking Boards

Snack platters have become a real hit in recent years, and understandably so. Enjoying delicious snacks with friends is a great way to spend a pleasant evening. But when you are faced with the choice between a vegetarian or a meat variant, it can be quite difficult. Maybe you have friends with different dietary preferences, or you simply want to find the perfect balance between taste and nutritional value. In this blog post, we will delve deeper into the pros and cons of both vegetarian and meat snack platters, so that you can make an informed decision for your next get-together. Let's discover together what suits your gathering best!

What is a drinks board?

A snack platter is a versatile and attractive way to present a range of snacks, perfect for both festive occasions and informal gatherings with friends and family. The concept of the snack platter is simple: a wooden or stone board is filled with various delicacies, allowing guests to choose what they want to taste. This makes it an ideal option for social gatherings, where sharing food creates a sense of togetherness.

Origin of the Borrelplank

The snack platter has its origins in Dutch culture, where combining different types of snacks and drinks has a long tradition. The idea of presenting snacks on a large board is a development that has become increasingly popular in recent years, partly due to the rise of social media. Sharing a photo of a beautifully presented snack platter on platforms such as Instagram or Facebook has contributed to the popularity and creativity surrounding this dining experience.

Basic components of a snack board

A well-composed snack board contains a variety of elements, so that there is something for everyone. Below are the main components that you can usually expect:

• Cheeses: Choose a mix of hard and soft cheeses. Some popular choices include:
  • Brie: A creamy French cheese that is perfect to enjoy with a slice of baguette.
  • Gouda: A Dutch classic that goes well with mustard or fig jam.
  • Parmesan cheese: For a savory addition to the platter.
• Sausages: Various types of sausage add flavor and texture to the snack platter. Think of:
  • Salami: A dry sausage that goes well with cheese and wine.
  • Chorizo: A spicy Spanish sausage that gives an extra kick to your plank.
  • Prosciutto: Thin slices of this Italian ham provide a luxurious feel.
• Dips: Dips are essential to complete a snack platter. Consider the following options:
  • Hummus: A popular chickpea pasta that goes well with vegetables.
  • Guacamole: Avocado dip that appeals to many people.
  • Tzatziki: A fresh yoghurt dip with cucumber and garlic.
• Fruits and Vegetables: Add colour and freshness with a selection of:
  • Cherry tomatoes: For a sweet, juicy bite.
  • Cucumber: Cooling and crunchy, perfect with dips.
  • Grapes: A sweet complement that goes well with cheese.

Examples of Branded Products for a Snack Board

To make your snack board really stand out, you can opt for specific brand products that offer quality and taste. Here are some recommendations:

• Cheeses:
  • Cheese shop Van Vliet: Offers an extensive selection of artisanal cheeses.
  • Old Amsterdam: Known for its old, matured Gouda cheese.
• Sausages:
  • Duke Jan: Their specially selected sausage varieties are perfect for a drinks platter.
  • Jumbo's own brand: Has various types of sausage that are of good quality and affordable.
• Dips:
  • Hummus from Maza: This hummus is creamy and full of flavor.
  • Old El Paso Guacamole: A tasty option for a Mexican twist.
• Fruits and Vegetables:
  • Organic cherry tomatoes from EkoPlaza: For a responsible choice.
  • Grapes from the Jumbo: Always fresh and good quality.

Tips for Putting Together a Snack Platter

• Variation: Mix flavors and textures. Combine sweet, savory, creamy, and crunchy.
• Presentation: Make the board attractive by adding color and height. Use small bowls for dips and spread the ingredients evenly.
• Portions: Consider the number of guests and adjust the quantities. On average you can count on 100-150 grams per person.

By combining the right ingredients and a beautiful presentation, a snack platter can be a real eye-catcher at any gathering. It is a way to enjoy good food and each other, and it offers endless possibilities for creativity and flavor exploration.

Vegetarian snack platters: Healthy and Creative

Vegetarian platters are not only a feast for the eyes, but also a healthy and versatile choice for any occasion. In this section, we explore the different ingredients you can use, the health benefits of vegetarian options, and how to create an attractive platter that will appeal to all your guests.

Inspiring Ingredients

A vegetarian snack platter can consist of a rich variety of ingredients. Here are some suggestions for each part of the platter:

Seasonal Vegetables

• Cucumber: Refreshing and crunchy, perfect for dipping in hummus.
• Bell pepper: Provides a colorful addition and a sweet taste.
• Cherry tomatoes: Easy to eat and full of flavor.
• Carrots: Deliciously crispy, ideal for dips such as tzatziki.

Cheeses

There are numerous cheese options you can use to enhance your board. Consider:

• Old Amsterdam: A delicious, strong cheese that is perfect for the enthusiast.
• Gorgonzola: For a spicy touch, excellent in combination with nuts.
• Boursin: A creamy herb cheese that adds a luxurious feel to your board.

Nuts

Nuts not only add crunch, but are also a source of healthy fats. Think of:

• Walnuts: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids.
• Almonds: An excellent source of vitamin E.
• Pistachios: A tasty and colorful addition.

Fruit

Fresh fruit not only makes your board more attractive, but also provides a sweet addition:

• Grapes: Easy to eat and perfect to combine with cheese.
• Apple slices: Fresh and crunchy, especially tasty with nut butter.
• Strawberries: Sweet and juicy, a real treat.

Benefits of Vegetarian Snack Platters

Vegetarian snack platters have several advantages that make them an excellent choice for any event:

Healthy Lifestyle

• Nutritional value: A snack platter full of vegetables, nuts and fruit is rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.
• Low in saturated fats: By using plant-based ingredients you avoid unhealthy fats that are often found in meat products.

Dietary requirements

• Vegans and vegetarians: A vegetarian snack platter is a great way to accommodate your guests' dietary needs.
• Allergies: By carefully choosing ingredients, you can easily avoid allergies (such as nut or lactose intolerance).

Creativity and Presentation

Creative snack boards are also a visual feast. By using different colours and textures, such as the bright shades of vegetables and fruit, and the variation in shapes of cheese and nuts, you create an attractive whole.

Practical Examples of Products

Here are some specific products you can use to perfect your vegetarian snack platter:

With these tips and examples you can put together an attractive, healthy and creative vegetarian snack platter that will certainly impress your guests.

Meatball platters: Hearty and filling

Meat platters are a delicious and versatile choice for any occasion. They are perfect for a get-together with friends, a party or even as a fancy snack. In this section, we will discuss how to put together a tasty meat platter and give tips on combining flavors and textures.

How to Assemble a Meatball Platter

When putting together a meat platter, it's important to find a balance between different meats, cheeses, and side dishes. Here are some steps and examples to get you started:

1. Choose your meats
   Start with the basics: Choose a selection of meats that go well together. Some popular options include:
   • Salami: For example the Citterio Salami, known for its rich taste.
   • Prosciutto: Choose for San Daniele Prosciutto, which offers a delicate, salty flavor.
   • Chorizo: The Palaces Chorizo gives a spicy kick to your plank.
2. Add cheeses
   Make sure to add different textures and flavors of cheese:
   • Hard cheese: Parmesan cheese or Grana Padano are excellent choices.
   • Soft cheese: Brie de Meaux or Camembert give a creamy addition.
   • Blue cheese: Try Roquefort for a strong taste.
3. Combine with side dishes
   Add some side dishes to enhance the flavors:
   • Olives: Choose a mix of green and black olives.
   • Pickles: Herb pickles can provide a fresh contrast.
   • Nuts: Almonds and walnuts add a crunch.

Tips for Combining Flavors and Textures

Combining flavors is crucial for a successful meatball platter. Here are some tips:

• Contrast in flavors: Try pairing salty meats with sweet side dishes, such as fig jam or honey. This creates an interesting balance of flavors.
• Variation in textures: Combine crunchy elements like nuts and crackers with creamy cheeses and juicy meats.
• Herbs and spices: Add dried herbs or spices, such as smoked paprika or black pepper, to add extra depth to the flavors.

Benefits of Meatball Platters

Meatball platters offer several benefits, especially when it comes to nutritional value and fillingness:

• Rich in proteins: Meats are generally high in protein, which is beneficial for muscle recovery and building. For example, 100 grams of prosciutto contains about 25 grams of protein.
• Filling: The combination of proteins and fats makes meat platters make you feel full faster. This is ideal for long evenings or as a starter for dinner.
• Social experience: Sharing a meatball platter promotes social interaction and makes it a fun activity for guests.

Practical Examples of Meatball Platters

Here are some examples of meatball platters you can consider:

By following these guidelines, you can create a meatball platter that is not only delicious, but also creates a festive atmosphere for any occasion. Enjoy the variety of flavors and the social experience that a meatball platter provides!

The best choice for every occasion

In conclusion, both vegetarian and meat platters offer unique flavors and experiences for your guests. It is essential to consider their preferences when creating your platter. By offering a balanced combination of both options, you can create a festive and inclusive atmosphere that everyone will appreciate. This will ensure that your drinks moment is a success.