When you invite friends or family for a cozy drink, you want everything to be perfect. The right snacks can make the difference between a fun evening and an unforgettable experience. Crunchy snacks are not only a feast for the taste buds, but also a visual spectacle that brings your snack platter to life. In this blog post, we invite you to explore the world of crispy snacks with us. We share delicious recipes and handy tips to take your snack platter to the next level, so that your guests feel welcome and appreciated. Let's discover the art of drinks together!
What is a Borrelplank?
A snack platter is an elaborate dish often served at social gatherings, such as drinks, parties or informal dinners. The platter is filled with a variety of delicacies that are the ideal companion for a drink. This can range from savoury snacks to sweet treats, and it gives guests the opportunity to taste and share different flavours.
Origin of the Borrelplank
The tradition of bringing together various snacks on one board has its origins in European food cultures, where it was customary to serve small dishes during social occasions. In the Netherlands, the borrelplank has become increasingly popular in recent years, especially in cafés and restaurants. The concept has evolved from simple cheese and sausage boards to more varied and creative compositions.
The Popularity of the Borrelplank
There are several reasons why the drinks platter is such a popular choice for social gatherings:
- Social interaction: Guests can enjoy the various snacks together, which creates an informal and cozy atmosphere.
- Variety: A snack board offers a range of flavors and textures, so there is something for everyone. This also makes it easy to take dietary needs and preferences into account.
- Convenience: It is easy to prepare and serve. You can prepare it ahead of time and it is easy to share.
Elements of a Snack Board
A snack board can consist of various elements, which together form an attractive and tasty whole. Below you will find an overview of popular ingredients:
- Cheeses: Think of Dutch cheeses such as Gouda, Edam, or for a more luxurious option, Brie de Meaux or Camembert.
- Sausages: Variations such as Salami, Chorizo and Black Pata are excellent choices.
- Olives: Green and black olives, for example the Kalamata olive, add a salty taste.
- Nuts: Mixed nuts or specific types such as Almonds and Walnuts are healthy and tasty.
- Bread: Freshly baked bread such as Baguette or Ciabatta goes well with dips and spreads.
- Dips: Hummus, tzatziki or a spicy salsa can give the plank an extra dimension.
- Fruit: Fresh fruits such as grapes, figs or strawberries provide a sweet change.
- Chips and Crunchy Snacks: Tortilla chips or Crispy nachos complete the drinks platter.
Sample Drinking Board
Below you will find an example of how to put together a drinks platter:
| Element | Products |
|---|---|
| Cheeses | Gouda, Brie de Meaux, Manchego |
| Sausages | Salami, Chorizo, Pata Negra |
| Olives | Stuffed green olives, Kalamata |
| Nuts | Roasted almonds, cashew nuts |
| Bread | Fresh baguette, bruschetta |
| Dips | Hummus, guacamole, tzatziki |
| Fruit | Grapes, figs, apple slices |
| Snacks | Tortilla chips, salted peanuts |
By choosing a varied and qualitative selection of products, guests can enjoy their time together in a relaxed way. The snack board is not only a feast for the taste buds, but also for the eye, with a colorful presentation that makes it all attractive.
Crunchy Snacks: The Stars of Your Snack Platter
A drinks platter is not complete without a selection of crispy snacks that tickle the taste buds and increase the conviviality. In this section we discuss a number of popular crispy snacks, including recipes and handy tips for preparation. These snacks are easy to make yourself and will certainly impress your guests.
Homemade Chips
Homemade chips are a great way to control the ingredients and flavor. They are easy to make and can be customized to your personal preference.
Homemade Potato Chips Recipe
Ingredients:
- 4 large potatoes (for example Agria or Bintje)
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Optional spices (such as paprika or garlic powder)
Preparation:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C.
- Wash the potatoes well and cut them into thin slices with a mandolin or a sharp knife.
- Mix the potato slices with olive oil, salt and any herbs in a bowl.
- Place the slices in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with baking paper.
- Bake the chips for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Flip halfway through baking.
Nachos with Melted Cheese
Nachos are a classic on any snack platter. They are versatile and can be served with different dips.
Recipe for Nachos with Melted Cheese
Ingredients:
- 200 g tortilla chips (for example Doritos brand)
- 150 g grated cheese (such as Cheddar or a Mexican cheese mix)
- Jalapeños (optional)
- Salsa or guacamole for garnish
Preparation:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C.
- Spread the tortilla chips on a baking sheet.
- Sprinkle the grated cheese evenly over the chips.
- Add jalapeños if you like a spicy flavor.
- Bake the nachos in the oven for 10 minutes, until the cheese has melted.
- Serve with salsa or guacamole.
Mixed Nuts
Mixed nuts are a perfect snack for drinks. They are not only crunchy, but also nutritious.
Recipe for Spiced Mixed Nuts
Ingredients:
- 200 g mixed nuts (e.g. almonds, cashews and pecans)
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika powder
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Preparation:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C.
- In a bowl, mix the nuts with the olive oil, paprika, salt and cayenne pepper.
- Spread the nuts on a baking sheet.
- Roast the nuts in the oven for 10-15 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Mini Crostini
Mini crostini are ideal for serving different toppings. They are easy to make and can be personalized endlessly.
Mini Crostini Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 baguette or ciabatta
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- Toppings of your choice (e.g. tapenade, cream cheese with herbs or bruschetta)
Preparation:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C.
- Cut the baguette into thin slices.
- Brush the slices with olive oil and place them on a baking tray.
- Bake the crostini for 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Let cool and top with your favorite toppings.
Comparison of Crunchy Snacks
| Snack | Taste | Difficulty level | Preparation time | Health Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Homemade Chips | Crispy | Average | 30 minutes | Less fat, no preservatives |
| Nachos | Cheesy | Simple | 20 minutes | High protein cheese, can be made healthy with toppings |
| Mixed Nuts | Savoury | Simple | 15 minutes | Rich in healthy fats and proteins |
| Mini Crostini | Versatile | Simple | 15 minutes | Can be healthy depending on the toppings |
Adding these crispy snacks to your drinks platter will create a fun and tasty experience for you and your guests. Each of these snacks offers unique flavors and textures that pair perfectly with drinks and good conversation.
How to Make Crunchy Snacks?
In this section, we will explore the different techniques and ingredients that go into creating crispy snacks. Whether you are an avid cook or just looking for an easy way to spice up your snacks, this step-by-step guide will provide you with the necessary knowledge and practical tips.
Deep Frying: The Classic Method
Deep frying is perhaps the most popular technique for making crispy snacks. It creates a golden, crunchy texture that is hard to resist. Here are some key steps and tips:
Required Equipment
- Deep fryer: The Philips Airfryer HD9650/90 is an excellent choice because it uses less oil and still delivers a crispy result.
- Thermometer: A digital kitchen thermometer helps you keep the oil at the right temperature, usually between 160°C and 190°C.
Crispy Snacks for Frying
- Potato fries: Use fresh, firm potatoes such as Bintje for best results.
- Chicken nuggets: Use chicken thigh fillets for extra tenderness and bread them with panko (for example Kikkoman Panko) for extra crunch.
Frying Tips
- Make sure the ingredients are thoroughly dry before placing them in the oil.
- Fry in small batches to prevent temperature loss.
Baking: Healthy and Crispy
Baking is a healthier option for making snacks, without the need for a lot of oil. With the right technique, you can achieve a delicious crunch here too.
Required Equipment
- Oven: A conventional oven such as the Bosch HBG634BS1 is perfect for baking snacks.
- Baking tray: Use a non-stick baking tray or line it with baking paper.
Crispy Snacks for Baking
- Herb crackers: Mix flour, olive oil (for example Filippo Berio extra virgin olive oil) and herbs of your choice.
- Vegetable chips: Slice vegetables such as zucchini and beets thinly and sprinkle with olive oil and salt before baking.
Baking Tips
- For extra crispiness, use a rack in the oven to allow air to circulate around the snacks.
- After baking, let the snacks cool on a rack to allow moisture to escape.
Drying: The Healthy Crunch
Drying is an excellent way to create snacks that are both healthy and crunchy. This technique concentrates the flavors and extends the shelf life.
Required Equipment
- Food dehydrator: The Excalibur 3926TC is a popular choice because of its efficiency and ease of use.
- Baking tray: Make sure you have a good baking tray that is suitable for your food dehydrator.
Crunchy Snacks to Dry
- Fruit bars: Thinly slice apples or pears and dry them for a sweet, crunchy snack.
- Herb chips: Use herbs like basil or parsley, finely chop and dry for a tasty topping or snack.
Drying Tips
- Make sure the pieces are cut evenly for consistent drying time.
- Store dried snacks in airtight containers to maintain their crispness.
Ingredients for the Perfect Crunch
The choice of ingredients is crucial when making crunchy snacks. Here are some ingredients you should definitely consider:
- Panko: For an extra crispy crust, use panko instead of traditional breadcrumbs.
- Cornstarch: A little cornstarch can help create an extra crispy texture, especially with fried snacks.
- Herbs and Spices: Experimenting with different spices like paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper can add a new dimension to your snacks.
Summary
With the right techniques and ingredients, making crispy snacks is an easy and satisfying task. Whether you choose to fry, bake, or dehydrate, the key to success lies in the quality of your ingredients and the right equipment. Start experimenting in the kitchen today and enjoy your homemade crispy snacks!
Conclusion: Enjoy delicious crunchiness!
In conclusion, crispy snacks are an essential part of a successful snack platter. By varying recipes and paying attention to presentation, you can create an unforgettable experience for your guests. Let your creativity run wild and enjoy the process of putting together a tasteful and attractive snack platter. Your guests will undoubtedly be impressed by your culinary efforts.
