Snack Attack

Cheap chips, greasy wings and carbonated drinks off supermarket shelves are appropriate snacks... if you’re feeling particularly predictable and boring. However, if you are keen to remove that ‘Average Joe’ or ‘Jane’ stigma, here are some suggestions to kick things up a little.

It is essential to think of snacks as finger foods that are hassle free to prepare, yet high on the ‘wow’ factor. More importantly, grant some attention to the occasion (formal? playful?) and the company (dietary preferences?) and you are off to a good start.

First up, the classic soccer match or the adrenaline-pumping Formula 1 race gathering with close friends. Add a welcome but unfamiliar treat to the free flowing lager by crisping up some bacon strips (you can’t go wrong on these). Having a multitude of exotic dips and sauces will also set you apart from the crowd. Consider Middle Eastern Hummus or Greek Tzatziki with Pita bread slices and raw vegetables, or Mexican chipotle sauce served with corn nachos and melted cheese. For the health conscious, you can trade in the fatty groundnuts for edamame; just boil the pods in water with salt for a couple of minutes and you will have soft yet crunchy beans in no time.

For a larger get-together with friends of friends and family, kebabs are a great choice as they are versatile and make for a good conversation starter too. Buy well-seasoned meat of your choice and dice them up neatly. Chicken, beef, and lamb are great options as people are less likely to be inhibited by dietary restrictions. If you decide on chicken or pork, be sure to cook the meats thoroughly to avoid any illnesses. String them up on skeweres with bell peppers, fruits or mushrooms. Alternatively, be adventurous and lay out a tray of assorted accompaniments for guests to mix and match.

How about a free for all outdoor party basked in sunshine? Sandwiches are ideal as they are light, fuss-free and pack a whole bunch of energy. However, banish those squarish loaves and jazz things up with bagels or foccacia. In addition to your usual spreads and meat, you may wish to get creative with sultanas, avocado or cranberry ‘to keep the doctor away’.

And the last item on our list is for folks out there who favour solitary time with a home movie or that can’t-put-down book. Why not go Eskimo style: throw in chewy Snickers or Mars chocolate bars with light-flavored ice creams, and top it off with nuts. If you would rather heat things up a little, try various flavoured Pretz with wasabi-mayonnaise.

Experimenting with alternative food and different flavours is always tricky but fun. Score points with your creativeness that will surprise not just yourself but your guests too!

Written by: Tan Hong Jiun