When putting together a drinks platter, you want everything to be perfect, from the snacks to the drinks. Chips are an essential part of this culinary experience, but the choice between salty and spicy varieties can sometimes be overwhelming. Perhaps you have organized a drinks party before and felt the pressure to choose the right flavors that match the preferences of your guests. In this article, we offer you tools to select the ideal chips, so that your drinks platter is not only tasty, but also unforgettable. Let's discover together which chips are the best fit for your unique drinks moment.
The Basics of a Snack Board
What is a Borrelplank?
A snack platter is a versatile and attractive dish that is often served during social occasions, such as drinks, parties or even as an informal meal. The idea behind the snack platter is that guests can choose and combine their favorite snacks themselves, making the experience interactive and convivial. It is not only a way to explore different flavors and textures, but it also promotes social interaction among guests.
Typical Elements on a Snack Board
When composing a perfect snack board, there are several elements that can be taken into account. Below are some typical components that you will often find on a snack board:
Cheese
Cheese is an essential part of any snack platter. It not only provides rich flavors, but also a variety of textures. Here are some popular cheeses:
- Brie: A creamy French cheese that goes well with fruits such as figs or grapes.
- Gouda: A firm Dutch cheese that is available in different age varieties, from young to old.
- Stilton: A blue cheese with a strong flavour, perfect for the adventurous eater.
Sausage
Sausages are another popular addition to the snack platter. They add heartiness and can vary in flavor and texture. Consider the following options:
- Salami: The classic Italian sausage, available in different varieties, such as mild or spicy salami.
- Chorizo: A Spanish sausage often seasoned with paprika, which gives it a rich, smoky flavor.
- Serrano ham: An air-dried Spanish ham that offers thin slices with a delicate flavour.
Dips and Sauces
Dips are a great way to add extra flavor to your snack platter. Here are some popular options:
- Hummus: A creamy dip made from chickpeas, which is ideal for vegetables and crackers.
- Guacamole: An avocado dip that goes perfectly with tortilla chips.
- Tzatziki: A Greek yogurt dip with cucumber and garlic, which adds a refreshing touch.
Chips and Crackers
Chips and crackers are the perfect addition to a snack platter, as they offer a crunchy texture and a variety of flavors. Consider the following brands:
- Doritos: For a spicy crunch; the nacho cheese variant is particularly popular.
- Ritz Crackers: A classic that goes well with cheese and dips.
- Tortilla Chips from Tortilla Chips: Ideal for dipping in guacamole or salsa.
Balance between Flavors and Textures
A well-composed snack platter has a balance of different flavors and textures. It is important to have a mix of sweet, salty, creamy and crunchy elements. Here are some tips to achieve this balance:
- Sweet: Add fruits such as strawberries, grapes or dried apricots.
- Salt: Have a variety of salted nuts on hand, such as almonds or cashews.
- Creamy: In addition to cheese, spreads such as cream cheese or tapenade can also be added.
- Crispy: Provide a mix of chips and crackers for the perfect crunch.
Sample Drinking Board
Here's an example of how to put together a drinks platter:
| Element | Sample products |
|---|---|
| Cheese | Brie, Gouda, Stilton |
| Sausage | Salami, Chorizo, Serrano ham |
| Dips | Hummus, Guacamole, Tzatziki |
| Chips and Crackers | Doritos, Ritz Crackers, Tortilla Chips |
| Fruit | Strawberries, Grapes, Dried Apricots |
| Nuts | Roasted Almonds, Cashews |
With these guidelines and examples, you can create an attractive and tasty snack platter that will impress your guests. It is a great way to combine different flavors and textures while creating a relaxed and festive atmosphere.
Salty Chips: A Timeless Favorite
Salty chips aren’t just any snacks; they’re an essential part of any snack platter. Their versatility and flavor make them a popular choice for both casual gatherings and festive occasions. In this article, we’ll explore the different types of salty chips and give you tips on how to pair them perfectly with dips, cheeses, and other treats.
Types of Salty Chips
1. Traditional Potato Chips
Traditional potato chips are a classic that should not be missing on a snack platter. Brands such as Lays and Zebra Snoe offer a wide variety of flavors, from classic salt to more adventurous options like paprika and sour cream.
Benefits of Traditional Potato Chips:
- Readily available in supermarkets.
- Various flavors to serve different preferences.
- Ideal to combine with dips.
2. Tortilla chips
Tortilla chips are an excellent choice for lovers of Mexican flavors. Brands such as Doritos and tortilla offer not only the traditional corn chips, but also variations such as nacho cheese and chili lime. These chips are perfect for dipping in salsa or guacamole.
Benefits of tortilla chips:
- A crispy texture that adds a nice variation to the snack platter.
- Suitable for both savoury and spicy dips.
- Often made from corn, which gives them a different taste experience.
3. Salted Nuts
Salted nuts are a nutritious alternative to traditional chips. Brands like Nature Valley and Sun Nature offer a variety of nut mixes, from salted almonds to mixed nuts. These are not only delicious, but also add a crunch to your snack platter.
Benefits of salted nuts:
- Rich in proteins and healthy fats.
- Ideal for those looking for a healthier snack option.
- Perfect complement to cheese and other snacks.
Combine with Dips and Snacks
Pairing salty chips with different dips and snacks can be a great way to enhance the taste experience. Here are some suggestions:
Dips
- Guacamole: A creamy and fresh combination with both tortilla chips and traditional potato chips.
- Hummus: This goes great with both potato chips and salted nuts, offering a healthy option.
- Salsa: Perfect for tortilla chips; the spicy tomato salsa adds a kick to the snacking experience.
Cheeses
- Brie: This soft cheese goes well with salted nuts and traditional chips.
- Cheddar: The sharp flavor of cheddar makes a great complement to tortilla chips.
- Feta: Crumbled feta over a mix of potato chips and nuts can provide a delicious salty contrast.
Tips for the Perfect Drinking Board
When putting together your drinks platter, there are some practical tips to keep in mind:
- Variation in texture: Provide a mix of crunchy and creamy elements. This keeps your guests interested and makes the experience more dynamic.
- Color and presentation: Use different colors and shapes to make your snack board more attractive. Think about adding cut vegetables next to your chips.
- Portioning: Offer chips in small bowls to make it easy for guests to grab without making a mess.
Sample Drinking Board
Here's an example of how to put together an attractive snack platter with salty chips and other treats:
| Snack | Combination |
|---|---|
| Traditional chips | Served with guacamole and salsa |
| Tortilla chips | Served with nacho cheese dip |
| Salted nuts | Served with feta and olives |
By choosing the right combination of salty chips, dips and other snacks, you can create an unforgettable party experience for your guests. The versatility of salty chips makes them an indispensable favorite that is always a hit.
Spicy Chips: For the Adventurous Taste Buds
Spicy chips are the perfect addition to a snack platter, especially for those who like a little spice in their snack. Whether you like the sharp kick of jalapeño or the smoky flavors of barbecue, these chips offer a wide range of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
The Variety of Spicy Chips
There are many types of spicy chips available on the market, each with their own unique flavor profiles. Here are some popular options:
- Jalapeño Chips: These chips are infused with the spicy flavors of jalapeño peppers. Brands like Lay's and Doritos offer excellent varieties that are both crunchy and tasty.
- Barbecue Chips: Barbecue-flavored chips are often a combination of sweet and smoky, perfect for those who want a more rounded flavor. Brands like Pringles and Kettle Brand have some of the best BBQ chips in their range.
- Exotic Flavors: For the adventurous eater there are also unique flavors such as Sriracha or Coriander-Lime, found at brands such as Hardbite and TERRA. These chips combine different flavors and spices for an unforgettable experience.
Why Spicy Chips?
The appeal of spicy chips lies in their ability to deliver an exciting taste experience. Here are a few reasons why you should consider these chips for your next get-together:
- Flavor explosion: The rich and often complex flavors of spicy chips can create a taste explosion in your mouth, making them an interesting choice.
- Perfect Variety: Spicy chips offer a tasty alternation between sweet and savoury snacks, making for a well-balanced snack platter.
- Social Aspect: Sharing different flavors can lead to fun conversations and discovering new favorites, making them ideal for social occasions.
Drinks That Go Well With Spicy Chips
Pairing the right drink with your spicy chips can make the experience even better. Here are some suggestions:
| Beverage | Why |
|---|---|
| Beer | A refreshing beer, like an IPA, can balance out the heat of the chips nicely. Brands like Heineken or Brewery 't IJ are excellent choices. |
| Wine | A glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a light rosé can complement the spicy flavours. Brands such as Cloudy Bay (Sauvignon Blanc) or Miraval (rosé) are recommended. |
| Cocktails | A refreshing mojito or margarita can also go well with the flavors of the chips. Try Hendrick's Gin for a unique twist in your cocktails. |
| soft drink | For a non-alcoholic option, citrusy sodas, such as Sprite or Fanta, perfect for toning down the spiciness. |
Spicy Chips as Culinary Adventures
Spicy chips don’t have to be eaten as a snack only. They can also be used as a unique ingredient in a variety of dishes. Here are some ideas:
- Chips Salsa: Make a salsa with avocado, tomato and jalapeño chips for extra crunch and spice.
- Chili with Chips: Add crushed barbecue chips to your chili for a smoky touch.
- Nachos: Use jalapeño chips in place of traditional tortilla chips for an exciting twist on classic nachos.
By combining these different aspects, spicy chips become not just a simple snack, but a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire.
The ideal chips for every taste and occasion
In conclusion, it is important to consider both salty and spicy chips for your snack platter. Both varieties offer unique flavors and can go perfectly with other snacks. The choice of chips depends on your personal preferences and the flavors that are already present on the platter. By making a careful selection and striving for a good balance, you can take your snack experience to the next level. Vary and enjoy the diversity that chips have to offer!
