What are the best ingredients for a drinks platter?

A snack platter is more than just a platter of snacks; it’s an invitation to come together, enjoy and create memories. Whether you’re planning an intimate get-together with friends, hosting a party or simply want to surprise your family, the right ingredients make all the difference. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the world of snack platters and share our top tips for creating an impressive selection that will please everyone’s tastes. Get inspired and discover how to elevate your snack platter to a true feast for the senses.

What is a drinks board?

A borrelplank is a beautifully presented selection of various snacks, usually served with a drink. The concept of the borrelplank originates from the traditional Dutch borrel culture, where friends, family and colleagues come together to enjoy each other's company, often while enjoying a drink and matching snacks. The borrelplank is not only a visually appealing way to serve snacks, but also a social experience that promotes togetherness.

Origin of the snack board

The tradition of sharing food and drinks is centuries old and can be found in different cultures. In the Netherlands, the borrelplank has its roots in the convivial borrel culture, which is especially popular in the informal setting of cafés and home gatherings. This tradition has been intensified by the rise of borrel- and snack bars and has evolved over the years into a more refined form, in which the presentation and variety of the snacks play an important role.

Types of snack boards

There are various types of snack boards that fit different occasions and preferences. Below is an overview of some popular variants:

• Cheese board: Contains a selection of different types of cheese, such as old cheese, brie, and blue cheese. Brands such as Beemster and Leerdammer are often favorites.
• Charcuterie board: A combination of meats such as salami, prosciutto, and chorizo. Brands such as Sweet and Zaanlander offer a wide range of meat products.
• Mediterranean plank: Includes olives, hummus, pita bread and feta. Brands such as Kraft and Alpro offer delicious hummus varieties.
• Vegetarian platter: Contains various vegetables, dips and nuts. Think of products from Duyvis for nuts and Hummus from Libelle for a tasty dip.

Snack platters in different cultures

The borrelplank has its counterparts in different cultures around the world. Here are some examples:

• Spain: The tapas platter with a variety of small dishes such as patatas bravas and albondigas.
• Italy: Antipasto, with an assortment of meats, cheeses, and vegetables in olive oil.
• France: The plateau de fromage, a beautiful presentation of different cheeses, often served with baguette.

History and popularity in the Netherlands

The borrelplank has become increasingly popular in the Netherlands in recent years, partly due to the growing trend of 'sharing meals'. This has led to an increase in restaurants and cafés offering borrelplanks on their menu. The borrelplank is a versatile and social dish, which fits perfectly with informal gatherings, such as birthdays and after-work drinks.

In fact, the snack platter is not only a way to enjoy different flavors, but also a way to connect with others. This has led to a renewed interest in creating unique snack platters, where creativity and presentation are key.

Below is a brief overview of the benefits of serving a drinks platter:

With the right ingredients and a little creativity, anyone can put together a delicious snack platter that will impress guests and enhance the atmosphere of any occasion.

Basic Ingredients for your Snack Platter

A snack platter is the perfect way to treat friends and family to a variety of delicious snacks. However, putting together such a platter can be a challenge if you don't know which ingredients are essential. In this section, we discuss the basic ingredients that absolutely must not be missing from your snack platter, including different types of cheese, meats, dips and vegetables. We also give tips for a beautiful presentation.

Cheeses: The Star of the Snack Platter

Cheeses are an essential element of any snack platter. They not only offer different flavors and textures, but also a visually appealing element. Here are some types of cheeses to consider:

• Brie de Meaux: A creamy French cheese that goes perfectly with raspberry jam.
• Gorgonzola: This blue cheese adds a strong flavor to your board and goes well with nuts, such as walnuts or pecans.
• Cheddar: A sharp cheddar cheese, such as the West Country Cheddar, can be a good counterpoint to sweeter ingredients such as honey or fig jam.
• Goat Cheese: Think about Chèvre with a layer of herbs or nuts for extra flavor.

Meats: Savory Elements

Cold cuts are essential for adding heartiness to your snack platter. Opt for a mix of flavors and textures:

• Prosciutto: This Italian ham is thinly sliced and has a salty, delicate flavor that goes well with fruits such as melon or figs.
• Salami: Felino Salami is an excellent choice for a spicy kick.
• Chorizo: Choose a mild chorizo that will add a smoky flavor to your plank. Brands like Palacios offer good quality.
• Chicken fillet: For a lighter alternative, you can opt for marinated chicken breast, such as that from Häagen-Dazs, which is often spiced and grilled.

Dips: The Tastemakers

Dips are essential for a successful snack platter. They not only offer flavour, but are also a fun way to combine different ingredients:

• Hummus: This chickpea puree is a healthy option. Try the Hummus from Maza, which is available in different flavors such as classic, paprika and garlic.
• Guacamole: A creamy avocado dip that goes perfectly with tortilla chips. Holy Guacamole offers a delicious, ready-to-eat option.
• Tzatziki: A fresh yoghurt dip with cucumber and garlic. You can make your own variation or choose Zorba's Tzatziki.
• Pesto: Ideal for dipping sandwiches or vegetables. Pesto Genovese from Sacla is a quality option.

Vegetables: Color and Health

Don't forget to add vegetables to your snack board. They add colour and are a healthy addition:

• Cherry tomatoes: These are sweet, juicy and easy to snack on.
• Cucumber: Sliced, they are refreshing and perfect for dipping.
• Carrots: Both baby carrots and sliced large carrots are a crunchy option.
• Bell pepper: Use different colors for a vibrant look.

Tips for a Brilliant Presentation

A beautiful presentation can make all the difference. Here are some tips to make your snack platter more appealing:

• Use different heights: Play with bowls and trays to create depth.
• Add texture: Combine different materials such as wooden cutting boards and ceramic bowls.
• Color contrast: Mix colors with your ingredients. This makes the board visually appealing.
• Group: Group similar items together, for example all the meats on one side and the cheeses on the other.

Sample Drinking Board

Here's an example of how you can arrange a drinks platter using the above ingredients:

With these basic ingredients and tips, you will be well prepared to create a delicious and visually appealing snack platter that will certainly surprise your guests.

Creative Additions for Variety

In this section we explore how to enrich your snack platter with creative and surprising additions. By using specific themes and seasonal ingredients, you can significantly improve the taste and presentation of your snack platter.

Themes for your Snack Board

1. Mediterranean Snack Platter

A Mediterranean snack board offers a range of flavours and colours that invite you to enjoy. Think of:

• Olive Oil: Choose a quality extra virgin olive oil, such as that from Oliviers & Co., perfect for dipping bread.
• Homemade Hummus: Make your own hummus with chickpeas, tahini, and lemon juice. Try Meridian Foods for organic tahini.
• Cheese: Add a selection of Greek feta and Italian pecorino.
• Sun-dried tomatoes: Use products such as Delicacies for an authentic taste.
• Vegetables: Serve with raw vegetables such as carrots, celery and bell peppers for a crunchy bite.

2. Drinks platter with local products

Use local specialties and products to give your snack board a unique character. This also promotes the local economy. Consider the following additions:

• Cheeses: Choose from a selection of Dutch cheeses, such as Old Amsterdam and Beemster.
• Charcuterie: Use local meats, such as Frisian dry sausage or Groningen sausage.
• Bread: Serve artisan bread from a local baker, such as Bakery Jansen.
• Seasonal Fruit: Add fresh fruits such as apples in the fall or berries in the summer, depending on the season.

Seasonal Ingredients

Using seasonal ingredients can enhance the flavor of your snack platter and ensures that you are always working with the best products. Here are some suggestions per season:

Spring

• Asparagus: Serve with a creamy dip.
• Radishes: A fresh addition that provides color and crispness.

Summer

• Tomatoes: Combine with mozzarella for a caprese salad on your platter.
• Berries: Choose strawberries and raspberries as a sweet addition.

Autumn

• Pumpkin: Make a pumpkin hummus for a surprising twist.
• Apples: Serve with cheese for a classic combination.

Winter

• Citrus fruits: Add oranges or tangerines for a fresh taste.
• Dried Fruits: Think dates and figs for a sweet note.

Practical Examples of Products

To help you put together a varied drinks platter, we have selected some specific products that you can consider:

By playing with these themes and seasonal ingredients, you can not only enhance the taste of your drinks platter, but also create a visually appealing and varied offering that will surprise your guests.

Conclusion: The perfect combination for a successful drinks platter

In conclusion, putting together a snack platter gives you the opportunity to be creative with various ingredients and flavors. By varying with seasonal products and paying attention to presentation, you create an attractive and tasty experience for your guests. Let your inspiration run free and enjoy the process!