The way the food is presented creates a story, a message for the diner, for example the portrayal of:
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Comfort
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Tradition
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Minimalism
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Nostalgia
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Originality
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Fashion
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Extravagance
Plating styles are subject to changes in fads and fashions so they are continually evolving. For some people the current trend in plating will be the style that gives them the most enjoyment. Yet others who are not so influenced by changing fashions will be more satisfied with a visually beautiful dish regardless of whether it encompasses the latest fad.
Plating isn't just the realm of chefs and fancy restaurants. You can apply similar approached to healthy foods to add another interesting element to your meals. Instead of routinely serving the food from dishes at the table, ring the changes by presenting it attractively on the plate instead. Contemporary, elegant, playful, fun - the choice is yours, there are endless ways of presenting food.
Don't be intimidated by the concept of plating. The complex 'up to the minute' restaurant style plates of food that you see in the media or you may have been lucky enough to sample first hand, are the result of the chefs' endless quest to achieve aesthetic and culinary perfection. It doesn't need to be that complicated and you can easily create beautifully presented plates of food at home with far less effort!
Plating Styles
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More to follow ....
Guidelines for Successful Plating
~ Plan the plating design when you are planning the meal. I find it helps to sketch some ideas on a piece of paper so I have a rough idea of how I will be plating the food.
~ Preparation is essential. Try not to leave too much to the last minute and prepare as much in advance as you can. You can plate up, or at least partially place up, many cold dishes in advance.
~ Be organised. Make sure that you've got everything you need ready and at hand before you start plating up. Realising that you haven't made the sauce half way through plating up is a recipe for disaster!
~ Speed and simplicity are the keys for hot dishes. Spend too long arranging the food and you'll get complaints about cold food! Don't forget to serve the food on warmed plates too.
