Seasonal Local Delicacies for your Snack Platter

In today’s busy daily life, it can be a challenge to find the right balance between enjoyment and sustainable living. You want to treat your friends and family to a delicious snack platter, but how do you ensure that it is not only tasty, but also responsible? In this blog post, we will take you on a journey of discovery through the world of seasonal local delicacies. You will not only discover the rich flavors that our region has to offer, but also the importance of supporting local producers and reducing your ecological footprint. Be inspired to create a snack platter that will not only surprise your guests, but also have a positive impact on the world around you.

What is a Borrelplank?

A snack platter is a stylishly presented platter of a variety of snacks and appetizers, meant for sharing. It is a popular way to welcome guests and provides an informal setting in which people can enjoy different flavors and textures. A snack platter can be composed of a wide variety of ingredients, ranging from charcuterie and cheeses to vegetables and dips.

Origin of the Borrelplank

The borrelplank originates from Dutch culture, where it is customary to enjoy small snacks with a drink. The concept has evolved over the years and has taken on influences from various culinary traditions. Due to the variety of ingredients that can be presented on a borrelplank, it is a reflection of the rich food culture that the Netherlands has to offer.

Importance of Variety in Flavors and Textures

A well-composed snack platter not only offers a visually appealing presentation, but also a range of flavors and textures. Combining different types of ingredients can enrich the dining experience. Below are some important elements to consider when composing your snack platter:

Elements for a Snack Board

• Cheeses: Choose different types of cheeses, such as:
  • Gouda (for example Mature or Old by Henri Willig)
  • Brie (for example President Brie)
  • Blue cheese (for example Roquefort)
• Charcuterie: Add a selection of cold cuts such as:
  • Salami (for example Salami Napoli from Salumeria)
  • Prosciutto (for example Prosciutto di Parma)
  • Chorizo (for example Chorizo from Casa de l'Artisan)
• Vegetables: Cut different vegetables, such as:
  • Cucumber
  • Cherry tomatoes
  • Bell pepper
• Dipping sauces: Bring some dips, such as:
  • Hummus (for example Hummus from Olives & Runes)
  • Guacamole (for example Guacamole from Fresco)
  • Pesto (for example Pesto Genovese from Sacla)
• Nuts and Olives: Add a mix of nuts and olives:
  • Mixed nuts (for example the Nut Mix from the Nut Shop)
  • Kalamata olives (for example from Olives & More)
• Bread: Provide a variety of breads, such as:
  • Baguette
  • Ciabatta
  • Crispbread

Local Delicacies

When composing your snack platter, it is advisable to use local delicacies. This not only supports local producers, but also offers a unique taste experience. In the Netherlands, there are many regional products that fit perfectly on a snack platter:

• Frisian clove cheese: A hard cheese with a characteristic flavour.
• Zeeland mussels: Delicious as a luxurious addition to your plank.
• Groningen sugar bread: For a sweet touch.

Benefits of Local Delicacies

There are many benefits to using local delicacies for your drinks platter. From freshness to sustainability and from supporting local producers to the unique flavours that regional products offer, local delicacies are a valuable addition to any drinks party. Below we discuss these benefits in more detail.

Freshness and Quality

One of the biggest advantages of local delicacies is freshness. Products that are produced locally are often delivered to the consumer faster, resulting in better taste and nutritional value.

• Direct delivery: Local producers can often deliver their products the same day or within a few days of harvest.
• Less transport: The short distances from production to sale significantly reduce the risk of spoilage.

Example:

• Cheese from the Farm: Wouter and Eva's farm in the Achterhoek offers artisanal cheeses that are made fresh daily. Their farm cheese has a rich, full flavor that you won't find in mass-produced cheeses.

Sustainability

Local delicacies are not only better for your taste buds, but also for the planet. By choosing local products, you reduce your carbon footprint.

• Less packaging: Many local producers use less or no plastic packaging.
• Reduced CO2 emissions: Short transport distances ensure lower greenhouse gas emissions.

Example:

• Beer from Brewery de Molen: This brewery, located in Bodegraven, uses locally grown ingredients and focuses on sustainable production methods. Their beers, such as the 'Hollandse Weizen', are not only tasty, but also environmentally friendly.

Supporting Local Producers

By choosing local delicacies, you support the local economy, which allows small businesses to thrive and the community to grow.

• Creating employment: Local producers create jobs in the region.
• Preservation of local culture: Local delicacies contribute to the unique regional identity and culinary heritage.

Example:

• Daalder syrup waffles: These artisanal syrup waffles are made in Gouda and are a real treat. By buying this local delicacy, you support a family business that has been around for generations.

Unique Flavors

Local delicacies offer unique flavours that you often won't find in regular supermarkets. This makes for a special experience when putting together your snack platter.

• Regional specialties: Each region has its own specialties that you can discover.
• Seasonal products: By responding to the season, you can benefit from the tastiest products.

Example:

• Seasonal delicacies:
  • Spring: Asparagus cream from Asparagus Farm van den Boom
  • Summer: Sun-dried tomatoes from the Sun-dried Garden
  • Autumn: Pumpkin chutney from the Zonnebloem Farm
  • Winter: Yellow beet salad from the local market

Example of a Local Snack Board

Below is an overview of some popular local delicacies that you can use for a surprising drinks platter:

With this wealth of benefits and possibilities, it is clear that local delicacies are an excellent choice for any snack platter. By choosing local products, you not only enjoy a richer taste experience, but you also contribute to a more sustainable and stronger community.

Seasonal Delicacies for your Snack Platter

A snack platter is a great way to treat your guests to a variety of flavors and textures. By using seasonal delicacies, you not only give your presentation a fresh twist, but you also use the best ingredients that nature has to offer. Below we discuss the different seasons and the associated delicacies that you can use for a delicious snack platter.

Spring: Fresh and Spicy

In spring, the first fresh ingredients become available. Think of young vegetables, herbs and light cheeses.

Recommended Delicacies:

• Cheeses:
  • Dutch Edam cheese – A mild cheese that goes well with fresh flavours.
  • Goat cheese from De Weide – A soft goat's cheese with a light herbal flavour.
• Meats:
  • Prosciutto di Parma – Thin slices of this Italian ham add a salty, umami flavor.
• Vegetables:
  • Radishes – Crunchy, fresh radishes are delicious with a little sea salt.
  • Asparagus – Lightly blanched for a fresh crunch.
• Dips:
  • Hummus with mint – A fresh twist on the classic hummus.

Combination tips:

Place the goat cheese and hummus in small bowls and surround with radishes and asparagus for a colorful presentation.

Summer: Rich and Refreshing

Summer brings a plethora of flavors and colors. This is the season for juicy fruits and savory cheeses.

Recommended Delicacies:

• Cheeses:
  • Brie de Meaux – A creamy cheese that goes perfectly with fruit.
• Meats:
  • Salami from Spicco – A lightly spiced salami that goes well with sweeter flavors.
• Vegetables:
  • Cherry tomatoes – Sweet and juicy tomatoes are a must.
• Fruit:
  • Melon – Cut into cubes and serve with brie.
• Dips:
  • Pesto Genovese – A tasty dip that goes well with vegetables and cheese.

Combination tips:

Using a large wooden board, arrange the brie, salami and melon in an attractive pattern. Add a few sprigs of basil for a fresh look.

Fall: Hearty and Earthy

Fall is the season for rich, earthy flavors. Think nuts, pumpkin, and strong cheeses.

Recommended Delicacies:

• Cheeses:
  • Stilton – A blue cheese with a spicy taste.
• Meats:
  • Smoked duck breast – This gives a smoky, savory flavor to the plank.
• Vegetables:
  • Pumpkin – Roasted or diced as a delicious addition.
• Nuts:
  • Walnuts – A great crunch and an earthy flavor.
• Dips:
  • Peanut butter with sea salt – A surprising, but delicious combination with fruit and vegetables.

Combination tips:

Use a combination of nuts and smoked duck breast on your plank and add some pumpkin cubes. This will create an attractive mix of colours and textures.

Winter: Warm and Comforting

Winter is all about rich, warming flavours that are perfect for a cosy drinks evening.

Recommended Delicacies:

• Cheeses:
  • Parmesan – A hard cheese that is good for slicing.
• Meats:
  • Chorizo – A spicy Spanish sausage that adds a kick to your plank.
• Vegetables:
  • Caramelized onions – Sweet and savory, perfect as a topping.
• Dips:
  • Aioli – A creamy garlic dip that adds a rich flavor.

Combination tips:

Create a “winter tapas” atmosphere by combining the chorizo and caramelized onions with shaved parmesan. This can be served with a crisp ciabatta or baguette.

Summary Tips for the Snack Board

• Variation: Provide a mix of flavors, textures and colors.
• Presentation: Arrange the delicacies on a nice board or platter, use small jars for dips.
• Seasonal: Take advantage of seasonal products for the best flavors and quality.

By choosing the right seasonal delicacies, you can turn every party into a gastronomic experience. Let your creativity run wild and enjoy the flavors that each season brings!

Conclusion: Enjoy the flavors of the season!

In conclusion, creating a snack platter with seasonal local delicacies not only offers a tasteful experience, but also an opportunity to discover the unique culinary traditions of your region. By exploring local markets and producers, you can find the freshest and most authentic ingredients. We encourage you to share your own discoveries and inspire your snack platter experiences with others. Discover the rich flavors that your area has to offer and savor every bite!