THE ART OF PLATING – A few handy tips
FOOD PRESENTATION is a sure way to make or break an impression.
A lot depends on what we see on the plate. It can instantly lure you or put you off.
So, without any further ado, let’s just look into a few helpful tips which I have carefully jotted down.
I am not a food stylist. (but aspire to be one)
So, the tips chalked out here are straight from my personal experience of trials and errors, they are not bookish. I thought sharing the same will provide a little direction and we all can create some kind of magic on our plates.
Cooking is an activity which can get monotonous and boring for those who do it as a chore. But, if you do it with a sense of caring and love for your family and friends, then you will definitely want to pay attention to how you present it.
Take a quick look at the tips and WOW your loved ones with your flavourful and artful creations !!
- Choose the right plate
The plate you choose will act like a canvas. My suggestion would be, when in doubt choose white.
I remember the words of one of my friends, who is a brilliant photographer – he once told me the focus should always be on the food and not the plate. So, ensure the food stands out, while your fancy plate acts as a backdrop.
- Play with colours
Studies have shown that the colours on the plate stimulate the appetite. Always use fresh produce and try to stay away from synthetic colours. You can use the reddish pink colour from the beetroots for creating a lovely splash or sprinkle on a white plate. Or you can use edible flowers, sauces, fresh cream etc. There are endless possibilities. The dish really stands out with use of right colours.
- Portion sizes
This is important. Filling a plate to its corners is not going to work in this case. The portion size on the plate needs to be adequate not too little nor too much.
You can then create a visual effect around it. So be wise about the portion size.
- Be dramatic
A little bit of drama will create a lasting effect and delight the eyes of your guests.
For eg :
Adding pretty colourful layers to a trifle which is beautifully showcased in a glass.
OR
Keeping the molten chocolate oozing inside the choco-lava cake.
OR
Having a melty texture of cheese inside the starter, are few ideas you can choose from. It will pleasantly surprise the diner.
Cool isn’t it ?!
- Keep a focal point
The elements used for plating should always enhance the main food that is served and not overpower it.
While we experiment with the above tips, keeping food as the focal point is essential. It has to not only LOOK awesome but also TASTE awesome at the same time.
I hope my little contribution to THE ART OF PLATING concept proves helpful.
Do leave your feedback or suggestions on the same. I personally would love to learn new plating techniques as well, so keep writing to me, will appreciate it.
Love,
Deliciously URS
