How do you serve a drinks platter with specialty beer?

In our busy daily lives, it is important to create moments of togetherness with friends and family. A snack platter is not only a festive way to enjoy each other's company, but also offers the opportunity to experiment with flavours. In this blog article, we will take you into the world of the snack platter, introducing craft beer as the perfect partner. You will learn how to create an attractive and tasteful presentation, tailored to the unique characteristics of different craft beers. Whether you are an experienced entertainer or are putting together a snack platter for the first time, our tips will help you create an unforgettable experience.

Choose the right ingredients for your drinks platter

A snack platter is a great way to enjoy an evening with friends or family, especially in combination with craft beer. Selecting the right ingredients is crucial to creating a harmonious and tasteful experience. Below we discuss which ingredients go well with craft beer and provide practical tips for a successful snack platter.

Variety of cheeses

Cheese is an indispensable part of any snack platter. There are several types of cheese that go perfectly with specialty beer. Here are some recommendations:

• Gouda cheese (for example Beemster): This cheese has a strong flavor with sweet and nutty undertones. It goes well with an amber beer such as La Trappe Amber.
• Blue cheese (for example Roquefort): The strong, spicy flavour of blue cheese goes well with a sweet beer such as a Dubbel, for example Westmalle Dubbel.
• Goat cheese (for example Chavroux): The fresh and creamy taste of goat cheese is a good match for a fruity white beer such as Hoegaarden.

Meats

Cold cuts add a savory dimension to your snack platter. Here are some options:

• Serrano ham: This Spanish ham has an intense flavour that goes well with hoppy beers such as IPAs, for example BrewDog Punk IPA.
• Salami (for example Felicetti): The spicy and fatty taste of salami goes perfectly with a stout, such as Guinness.
• Chorizo: The spicy, smoky flavour of chorizo goes well with a dark beer, such as Affligem Dubbel.

Olives and nuts

Olives and nuts are perfect snacks to accentuate the flavors of your snack platter. Consider the following choices:

• Green olives (e.g. Kalamata): These olives are salty and fruity, which goes well with a fresh lager beer such as Jupiler.
• Black olives: The earthy flavor of black olives is an excellent complement to a fruity saison, such as Saison Dupont.
• Mixed nuts (for example Utrechtse Notenkraam): A mix of salted and unsalted nuts provides a crunchy texture. They go well with beers such as a blonde ale, for example La Chouffe.

Dips and spreads

Dips and spreads can further enhance the flavors. Here are some suggestions:

• Hummus (for example from Hummus & Co): A creamy hummus pairs well with a light beer such as a pilsner.
• Pesto (for example from Barilla): The taste of basil in pesto goes well with a wheat beer. Try it with a beer like Hoegaarden.
• Tapenade: This olive paste is savory and goes perfectly with a fruity amber, such as La Trappe Amber.

Balance between flavors

It is important to find a balance between salty, sweet and savory flavors on your snack board. Here are some tips:

• Salt: Use salty cheeses and meats to whet your thirst for craft beer.
• Sweet: Add some fruity elements, such as dried apricots or figs, to soften the flavors.
• Savoury: Provide a solid base of savory cheeses and meats to provide a good foundation.

Example of a tasteful drinks platter

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

By offering a carefully composed snack platter, you can enhance your guests' experience and increase their appreciation for craft beer. Enjoy discovering new flavors and combinations, and let your creativity run wild!

Choosing the Perfect Specialty Beers for your Snack Platter

Creating a snack platter is an art in itself, and choosing the right craft beers to serve with it can take the experience to the next level. It’s important to select beers that complement and enhance the flavors of your snacks. In this section, we’ll discuss different beer styles and provide recommendations for specific beers, including serving tips and temperatures.

IPA (India Pale Ale)

Flavor profile:
IPAs are often hoppy, bitter and fruity. They have a distinct flavour that goes well with savoury and spicy snacks.

Recommended beers:

• Brewery Het Anker – Gouden Carolus Hopsinjoor
  • Taste: Citrus, pine and a light caramel note.
  • Serving temperature: 6-8°C.
  • Combination snacks: Spicy cheese, such as blue cheese, or a spicy chorizo.
• Jopen – Koyt
  • Taste: Complex hop aromas with a floral touch.
  • Serving temperature: 6-8°C.
  • Combination snacks: Nachos with guacamole or marinated olives.

Stout

Flavor profile:
Stouts are dark, creamy and often have notes of chocolate, coffee or caramel. They are perfect for sweeter snacks.

Recommended beers:

• Guinness – Draught
  • Taste: Coffee and chocolate notes with a velvety aftertaste.
  • Serving temperature: 8-10°C.
  • Combination snacks: Dark bread with pâté or chocolate bonbons.
• Brewery de Molen – Rasputin
  • Taste: Rich flavours of cocoa and a hint of vanilla.
  • Serving temperature: 10-12°C.
  • Combination snacks: Nut mix or a firm chocolate cake.

White beer

Flavor profile:
White beers are light, refreshing and often fruity with a spicy undertone. They go well with fresh and light snacks.

Recommended beers:

• Hoegaarden – White beer
  • Taste: Citrus, coriander and a soft aftertaste.
  • Serving temperature: 4-6°C.
  • Combination snacks: Salads, shrimps or light cheeses such as young Gouda.
• Brewery de Klok – Summer White
  • Taste: Fruity notes of orange and a hint of cloves.
  • Serving temperature: 4-6°C.
  • Combination snacks: Bruschetta or a fresh tzatziki with pita.

Serving Tips and Presentation

• Glasses: Use the right glass for each beer; this will enhance the aromas and the overall experience. For example, serve a stout in a snifter to enhance the aromas.
• Temperature: Make sure each beer style is served at the right temperature. This will greatly affect the taste and experience.
• Tasting notes: Consider keeping little tasting notes of the beers so guests can keep track of their favorite pairings.

Overview of Beer Styles and Pairings

By following these guidelines and choosing the right specialty beers, you will ensure that your drinks platter is not only a visual delight, but also a tasteful experience that will surprise and delight your guests.

Presentation of your Snack Board

An attractive presentation is essential for a successful snack platter. After all, the eye wants something too! In this section, we discuss various ways to put together a visually attractive snack platter. We provide tips for using various bowls and plates, ideas for decorations, and how to arrange the beers and snacks for a beautiful appearance.

Choosing the right bowls and plates

The basis of an attractive snack board starts with choosing the right bowls and plates. Using different materials and shapes can help create a dynamic presentation. Here are some practical tips:

• Wood vs. Ceramic: Wooden planks, such as the Bamboo Cutting Board by OXO, give a rustic look, while ceramic plates, such as the Serax White Wave Plate, provide a more refined look.
• Different shapes: Combine round and square plates for a playful look. For example, consider the IKEA FÄRGKLAR series that offers affordable, colorful plates.

Decorative elements

Decorations can really make a difference. Here are some ideas to further enhance your snack board:

• Fresh herbs: Add a few sprigs of fresh rosemary or thyme for color and aroma. This can be done with the freshly grown herbs from Albert Heijn.
• Candles: Use small tea light holders near the drinks board for a cozy atmosphere. Yankee Candle offers a range of fragrances that can enhance the ambiance.
• Seasonal decorations: If it is fall, you can add small pumpkins or leaves. For summer, flowers like sunflowers or lavender are a nice addition.

Ranking of beers and snacks

The way you present your beers and snacks can significantly affect the overall impression of your snack platter. Here are some tips for a nice arrangement:

• Beer tasting: Line up different beers. Think of brands like Heineken, Brewery 't IJ, and The Chouffe. Place them in order from lightest to darkest so guests can compare flavors.
• Snacks layout: Group snacks by type or flavor. For example:
  • Cheese: Serve Old Amsterdam, Camembert, and Brie on a wooden board.
  • Meats: Place Chorizo, Salami, and Prosciutto in a separate bowl.
  • Vegetables: Make a fresh vegetable bowl with cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and paprika.

Examples of an attractive drinks platter

Below you will find a comparison table of some popular brands and products that you can use for your drinks board:

By considering these elements, you can create a snack platter that is not only delicious, but also visually appealing and inviting to your guests.

Conclusion: The perfect combination of flavors and presentation

In conclusion, putting together a special beer platter not only offers the opportunity to enjoy delicious flavors, but also to get creative. By experimenting with different ingredients and paying careful attention to presentation, you can create a unique and tasteful experience. Don't forget to share these moments with your friends and family, so that you can taste and enjoy your culinary creations together. Cheers to a successful drink!