Entertaining at home will most likely be part of the new normal, so it’s only right that we start thinking outside the box.
One favorite at events is the grazing table, which people can mingle over and help themselves to. While charcuterie boards are still a huge hit, they are so pre-pandemic. Why limit yourself to just cured meats and cheeses when you can have a smorgasbord of more fun, filling and dare we say, tastier options?
Here are some which you can take inspiration from.
Brunch Board
Raise your hand if you’re one of those who can eat brunch food all-day, every day. Sweet and savory brunch staples such as pancakes, waffles, bacon and eggs, syrups and spreads, plus some fresh fruits on a blank canvas is our definition of platter perfection.
Build-your-own- burger Board
It’s always good to know what’s in your food. Seasoning, molding and grilling your own beef patties at home will make your burgers extra special. Assemble them on a board with other burger essentials like buns, an assortment of cheeses and condiments, sliced tomatoes, onions, some greens, fries and maybe even sauteed mushrooms.
Filipino-Vietnamese Board
Filipino and Vietnamese cuisines boast some of the best flavors in the world—fight us on this. Lechon kawali, banh mi, dilis, pork barbecue, shrimp and pork pancakes, egg rolls, nuoc nam (spicy fish sauce) wings, chicharon, banana chips, okra chips and dips like nuoc nam and spiced vinegar complete this mash-up board which is already making our taste buds tingle as of this writing.
Ice Cream Board
Your guests will scream for ice cream when you serve them this. All kinds of toppings—including fruits, nuts, chocolate, pretzels, wafers, candy sprinkles, chocolate chips—served alongside pints or tubs of your favorite ice cream flavors is every sweet tooth’s dream come true.
Nacho Board
Easy to assemble and easy on the eyes too, your nacho board can be made up of tortilla chips (which you can fry or bake yourself), refried beans, guacamole, salsa, queso and chopped up and spiced meats. Add a couple of coriander sprigs and lime wedges and you’re good to go.
Snack Board
Peanut butter and jelly sandwiches are the highlight of this board which both kids and adults will love. More sweet and salty treats are added to the mix: saltine crackers, trail mix, popcorn, potato chips and fruit slices.