Have you come across Instagram posts displaying expertly-plated dishes that put your messy rice curry to shame? Enter Feng Shui – the art of organising spaces to promote energy flow and evoke the best possible emotional reaction. The goal of Feng Shui is to create harmony, generally achieved by creating a balance between Yin & Yang, as well as creating a space that is free of clutter, and using the best lighting and colour schemes possible.
As it so happens, this practice extends beyond interior design and into the culinary world through the art of food presentation. The Hugo’s Terrace team shares some plating techniques that will have your dish look like a masterpiece in no time!
1. Choose the right plate
The plate is your canvas, the food is your medium. That leaves you, of course, the artist. Selecting the right plate is key to appealing food presentation; make sure it is the right size so that your portions don’t get lost in a sea of… empty plate. White plates are probably the most popular because they create high contrast and provide a neutral background for you (the artist) and your colourful creations.
2. Those runny ingredients need to be put in their place!
Consider the plate’s rim as the frame. Plate moist or runny ingredients such as purees first, using them as your base as they tend to move if they aren’t held down by other foods. As with interiors, doing this is also another way of catching your guests’ eyes by utilising the power of height. Place your steak on top of polenta and lean carrot sticks or asparagus spears against them at an angle.
3. Serve odd amounts of food
If you’re serving small foods like scallops or bite-sized appetisers, a simple and great way of creating visual impact is by serving odd quantities. Opt for three, rather than two. And avoid overcrowding your plate.
4. Create colour & contrast
When are plates most appealing (and Instagrammable)? One of the most crucial factors when it comes to plating is creating a beautiful background by adding bright-coloured vegetables or fruits as accent points. Once you’re done plating your main ingredients, it’s time to get saucy! Enhance your dish’s visual appeal by creating accent dots on one side of your plate – squeeze bottles are great for this!
5. Texture
What sets high-end cuisine apart from the average? Texture! Contrast smooth-textured foods with crunchier ones, such as crispy onion.
6. Garnish
The garnish you choose should be edible, related to the dish and placed purposely to visually enhance and complement the flavours of your dish. Disperse them thoughtfully to add colour or texture.
Good luck lifting your guests’ jaws from the floor! The skilled chefs at Hugo’s Terrace are artists in their own right, capable of preparing meals that look as great as they taste. Come over and enjoy mouth-watering food, contagious energy and views of St. George’s Bay!
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