Which drinks go well with a snack platter with international dishes?

A snack platter with international dishes is a feast for the senses and offers the perfect opportunity to enjoy various flavours together with friends or family. After all, you don't want to leave anything to chance when it comes to combining dishes and drinks. In this blog post, we will help you create a harmonious snack platter and give you tips on which drinks go best with the various international delicacies. Get inspired and discover how you can take your drinks moment to the next level!

The Basics of the Snack Board

A snack platter is a lively and versatile dish that is ideal for social occasions, such as parties, get-togethers or a casual evening with friends and family. It offers a range of flavours and textures, making it a perfect choice for anyone who loves good food. In this section, we will discuss how to create a snack platter with international dishes and which specific products you can use to give your platter a unique flair.

What is a Borrelplank?

A snack platter is essentially a composed platter that often consists of different types of snacks. These snacks can vary from cheeses and charcuterie to dips and vegetables. The goal is to create a diverse and attractive presentation that invites guests to taste and enjoy.

Types of Cheeses

Cheeses are an essential part of any snack platter. Here are some cheeses from different countries that you can consider:

• Brie de Meaux (France): This creamy cheese has a soft crust and a rich flavour. Perfect to combine with a little fig jam.
• Manchego (Spain): A firm sheep's cheese with a nutty flavour. Try serving it with some olives for a Spanish touch.
• Gorgonzola (Italy): A blue cheese that adds a spicy kick to your platter. Pair with pears for a delicious contrast in flavors.

Charcuterie: Meats from Everywhere

Charcuterie is another important component of a snack platter. Here are some international charcuterie you can use:

• Prosciutto di Parma (Italy): This air-dried ham is a perfect complement to cheese and fruit.
• Chorizo (Spain): A spicy sausage with a rich flavour. Cut this into thin slices for an attractive presentation.
• Salami Milano (Italy): A more classic choice that is always a hit. It is versatile and can be paired with different cheeses and breads.

Dips and Sauces

Dips are a great way to add extra flavor to your snack platter. Here are some popular options:

• Hummus (Middle Eastern): This chickpea puree is not only healthy, but also delicious. Try brands like Ahmad Tea Hummus for authentic flavours.
• Tzatziki (Greece): A refreshing yoghurt dip with cucumber and garlic. Ideal to serve with pita or vegetable sticks.
• Guacamole (Mexico): A creamy avocado dip that pairs perfectly with tortilla chips. Brands like Wholly Guacamole offer ready-made options without artificial additives.

Snacks and Side Dishes

To complete your drinks platter, you can add various snacks and side dishes:

• Olives: Choose a mix of green and black olives from Spain or Italy.
• Nut mix: A combination of almonds, cashews and walnuts is an excellent addition. Try Sunsweet Nut Mix for a healthier choice.
• Mini pizzas or bruschetta: These can easily be made yourself or bought ready-made. Look at Buitoni Mini Pizzas for a quick option.

An example of an international snack platter

Here's an example of how to put together a drinks platter with international dishes:

By using these suggestions, you can easily create a snack platter that is not only appealing, but also offers a tasteful journey through different cuisines, turning every occasion into a culinary experience.

Drinks from different cultures

Spanish Sangria

Sangria is a refreshing and fruity drink that originated in Spain. This popular drink is perfect for a snack platter, especially in the warmer months. Sangria is traditionally made with red wine, but there are also variations with white wine or even rosé.

Ingredients for a classic Sangria:

• 1 bottle of red wine (for example Campo Viejo Tempranillo)
• 1/4 cup brandy (such as Bols Brandy)
• 1/4 cup orange juice
• Seasonal fruits such as oranges, lemons, and berries
• A dash of soda water for a sparkling touch

Tips for combination:

• Sangria goes very well with Spanish tapas such as fried potatoes and Iberian hamThe fruity notes of the sangria accentuate the salty flavours of the tapas.

French Wine

France is famous for its rich wine culture. French wines, such as Bordeaux and Burgundy, are versatile and go well with many different dishes.

Popular French wines:

• Château Margaux (Bordeaux): A luxurious choice that is ideal with grilled meats and rich cheeses.
• Louis Jadot Bourgogne Chardonnay: A fresh white wine that goes well with seafood and light salads.

Combination tips:

• Serve a full-bodied Bordeaux with a selection of hard cheeses such as Comte and GruyèreThe tannins in the wine balance nicely with the fattiness of the cheese.

Italian Prosecco

Prosecco is a sparkling wine from Italy that is becoming increasingly popular. This sparkling drink is an excellent choice for a festive snack platter and can be served as an aperitif or with dishes.

Recommended Prosecco:

• The Brand Prosecco: A popular and accessible choice with fresh flavors of green apple and citrus.

Ideal dishes:

• Prosecco goes wonderfully with antipasti, such as bruschetta and mozzarella capreseThe bubbles in the wine help bring out the flavors of the tomato and basil.

Middle Eastern Tea

In Middle Eastern culture, tea plays an important role. Tea is often consumed after a meal and is a perfect addition to a snack platter with Asian snacks.

Typical Middle Eastern teas:

• Moroccan mint tea: A combination of green tea and fresh mint, often served with lots of sugar.
• Black tea with spices: Like chai, which is rich in flavors and aromas.

Combination tips:

• Serve Moroccan mint tea with sweet treats such as baklava or maamoulThe freshness of the mint balances the sweetness of the desserts.

Important Combinations and Flavors

Below you will find an overview of the main drinks and the dishes they best pair with:

With these insights and recommendations, you can create your drinks platter in a refined way, with the unique flavours of international drinks perfectly complementing the accompanying dishes.

Refreshing non-alcoholic options

When putting together a drinks platter, many people often think of alcoholic beverages, but there are plenty of refreshing non-alcoholic options that are the perfect match for your nibbles. From mocktails to fruity juices and aromatic herbal infusions, these drinks not only offer variety, but are also ideal for guests who, for various reasons, do not want or cannot drink alcohol.

Mocktails: Creative and Tasty Alternatives

Mocktails are a great way to keep the vibe of a drinks party going without the alcohol. Here are some popular mocktail recipes that are easy to make:

1. Virgin Mojito

• Ingredients:
  • 10 mint leaves
  • 1 lime, in wedges
  • 1 tablespoon of sugar
  • 200 ml soda water
• Preparation:
  • Put mint, lime and sugar in a glass.
  • Crush gently with a muddler (or a spoon).
  • Fill the glass with ice and add soda water.

1. Pineapple Ginger Sparkler

• Ingredients:
  • 150 ml pineapple juice
  • 50 ml ginger beer
  • 1 slice of lime
• Preparation:
  • Mix pineapple juice with ginger ale in a glass with ice.
  • Garnish with a slice of lime.

1. Cranberry Basil Spritzer

• Ingredients:
  • 100 ml cranberry juice
  • 100 ml sparkling water
  • Fresh basil
• Preparation:
  • Mix cranberry juice with sparkling water.
  • Add a few basil leaves for extra flavor.

Refreshing Fruit Juices

Besides mocktails, fruit juices are another tasty option. Opt for freshly squeezed juices or premium brands that have a rich flavor. Here are some recommendations:

• Innocent Smoothies: These smoothies are made from 100% fruit and contain no added sugars. They come in different flavors, such as strawberry-banana or mango-pineapple.
• Rivella: This is a popular soft drink from Switzerland, which offers a unique, refreshing taste without alcohol.
• Juicy lemon lemonade: Make your own lemonade with freshly squeezed lemon juice, water and a little sugar for a refreshing thirst quencher.

Aromatic Herbal Infusions

Herbal infusions are not only refreshing, but they can also add a complex flavor dimension to your snack platter. Here are some ideas:

• Mint and Cucumber Infusion:
  • Ingredients:
  • 1 cucumber, sliced
  • A handful of mint leaves
  • 1 liter of water
  • Preparation:
  • Add the cucumber and mint to a jug of water.
  • Let it sit in the refrigerator for a few hours to infuse.
• Lemongrass and Ginger Tea:
  • Ingredients:
  • 2 stalks of lemongrass
  • 1 piece fresh ginger
  • 1 liter of water
  • Preparation:
  • Chop the lemongrass and ginger and add them to the water.
  • Boil and let it steep for half an hour.

Comparison of Non-Alcoholic Beverages

These refreshing non-alcoholic options offer a range of flavors and experiences that can complement any cocktail platter and create an inclusive atmosphere for all your guests. By choosing quality ingredients and experimenting with different combinations, you can create a drinking experience that is just as enjoyable and layered as their alcoholic counterparts.

The perfect drinks to complete your international drinks platter

In conclusion, putting together the right drinks to accompany a snack platter with international dishes can be a valuable addition to your dining experience. As you have learned, the choice of drinks depends not only on the dishes, but also on the atmosphere and the preferences of your guests. It is advisable to consider both alcoholic and non-alcoholic options so that you can satisfy everyone’s tastes. We encourage you to be creative in your choices and try new combinations. A well-composed drink can make a world of difference and take your snack platter to the next level. Enjoy your culinary adventure!