Why Sandwich Platters?
Planning any event where you are responsible for serving your guests food can always prove to be a little stressful. Sandwich platters make the perfect snack for business meetings or any casual event. They are versatile and customisable. They suit all ages and can be served almost any time of day. Managing different dietary requirements is easy too. They are an extremely cost effective solution, they provide many different choices and are easily enjoyed without fuss.
Planning:
First of all, you need to determine how many guests you are expected to feed. We always recommend 1.5 sandwiches per person (six - quarters each)
It is extremely important to be aware of any dietary requirements and intolerances the guest’s might have. This could include vegetarians, vegans, celiac (gluten intolerance), dairy intolerances or any other variety of allergies. There are 14 main allergens but some people are hyper-allergic to things as simple as honey for instance. It is always best to get these details in writing or by email.
It is extremely important to avoid any cross contamination if so. Therefore, it is sensible to separate sandwiches onto designated platters, labelling if possible to avoid confusion for your guests.
Cross contamination also must be considered when preparing and making your platters, we recommend making the more ‘sensitive’ items first, cleaning all utensils and boards in between. This prevents fatal mistakes being made.
Selecting Bread:
We recommend you choose a small selection of different breads when making your platters. This allows you to alternate sandwiches in the platter box, adding a variety of different colours to your presentation. Different breads also offer a subtle change in flavours. Always choose the freshest bread available, especially if you plan on making the sandwiches a day in advance. Choose loaves of bread which are ‘square’ in shape, this will help when it comes to cutting neater triangles once made.
Types of bread could include; White crusty, Granary, Malted & Seeded. To mix up the selection you’re offering, why not include a selection of wraps & bagels? There are also a delicious range of gluten free options available in supermarkets, if needed.
Selecting Fillings:
When choosing which fillings you are going to use, there are a few important factors to think about.
Colours: Different fillings offer a variety of colours. This is important for the overall presentation of your platters. You can use sauces and chutneys, such as cranberry sauce, to create an overall vibrant finish to the sandwiches.
Flavours: A mixture of more basic subtle flavours alongside strong more robust fillings i.e. Egg & Cress versus Coronation Chicken caters for everyone, not too overpowering.
Using different cheeses: Brie, Cheddar, Red Leicester. Great for vegetarian options.
Our Most Popular Meat Fillings:
Roast Chicken, Smoked Bacon, Sweetcorn & Mayo
Coronation Chicken
Ham, Mature Cheddar & Pickle
Egg Mayo & Smoked Bacon
Ham, Coleslaw & Salad Leaves
Brie, Bacon & Cranberry Sauce
BLT (bacon, lettuce and tomato)
Popular Fish/Seafood Fillings:
Smoked Salmon, Cream Cheese & Cucumber
Prawn, Seafood Sauce & Cucumber
Tuna Mayo, Spring Onion & Cucumber
Popular Vegetarian Fillings:
Brie, Cranberry Sauce & Salad Leaves
Egg Mayo & Cress
Mature Cheddar & Pickle
Cream Cheese & Cucumber
Popular Vegan Fillings:
Falafel, Hummus & Salad
Sliced Avocado, Roasted Tomato Chutney & Salad
Sandwich platters can be prepared in advance making it ideal for celebrations and events. Ensure they are well covered and refrigerated.
Make and have ready all fillings in advance before opening your bread to the elements to prevent it drying out. Keep work surfaces clean and tidy before you start to assemble. It is important that your bread is kept covered with a clean damp cloth while not being used. It will dry out within minutes, especially on warmer days or in a hot kitchen. Be sure to take your time and butter right to the corners and edges. This prevents the bread drying out and seals it preventing your fillings from making the sandwich soggy. We recommend buttering all bread before starting filling. For a perfect presentation place sandwiches made in advance on a separate temporary tray and cover well. Transfer prepared and cut sandwich items on the platter you wish to serve on a few hours before presenting to your guests. This prevents leakages from sandwiches spoiling the platter and gives the sandwiches an overall fresher appearance.
Click this text to view a selection of platter options are ideal for serving platters on, as the sleeves allow the user to place sandwiches back into the box when guests have been served to prevent drying out and attracting flies. Also makes transporting platters and storing in the fridge easier, they can be stacked.
Assembly:
Ensure the work surface is clean and tidy before starting. Be prepared with clean damp cloths ready to place on sandwiches as soon as they’re made. Have clean trays ready to place assembled sandwiches on. We recommend labelling trays if any need to be separated due to dietary requirements. Remember to choose trays which will fit in your fridge.
Filling:
Evenly distribute fillings to edges and corners to prevent drying out. Try not to add too many wet salad items, such as tomato & cucumber to prevent the sandwich going soggy.
Cutting:
To cut the sandwiches, use a sharp serrated bread knife. Ensure you wipe your knife between EVERY slice. This will ensure sauces don’t spoil the edge of the bread.
Presentation:
Alternate sandwiches by colour of bread and fillings.
Garnish with fresh mixed salad leaves and vine cherry tomatoes.
