Gathering, toasting, and saluting! Celebrating the pub crawl experience
The borrelplankje is a beloved tradition in the Netherlands, often serving as the perfect companion to an evening of socialising in bars and restaurants. This diverse platter of edibles, traditionally served on a wooden cutting board, is considered the best pub food according to scientific research and a national treasure by columnist Molly Quell.
The borrelplankje caters to various hunger preferences, offering customisable options to accommodate different dietary needs. Whether you're a fan of fried snacks like bitterballen, kipnuggets, loempias, or kaasstengels, or prefer lighter options such as olives, zilveruitjes (tiny pickled onions), gherkins, and various forms of carbohydrates, the borrelplankje has something for everyone.
Traditional borrelplankje fare includes meats such as ossenworst and leverworst, dried sausage options, and cheeses like komijnekaas, jonge, and oude kaas. For those following a vegan diet, fear not, as the borrelplankje can also cater to vegan options.
The bruin café version of the borrelplankje is considered superior, often featuring regional specialties such as cheese (like Gouda or Leyden), cured sausages (such as 'worst'), herring, bitterballen (deep-fried meatballs), pickles, and sometimes small sandwiches or bread with spreads.
The purpose of the borrelplankje is to provide enough sustenance for continued drinking, ensuring that revellers can keep the conversation flowing throughout the night. While the combination of edibles served on a borrelplankje varies between establishments, one thing remains constant - it's not meant to be a beautiful Instagram photo. Instead, it's all about the taste and the shared experience.
Many places offer customisation for the size and offerings of the borrelplankje, making it a versatile choice for any gathering. Whether you're out for a casual drink with friends or celebrating a special occasion, the borrelplankje is sure to satisfy your cravings and enhance your Dutch dining experience.
