Don’t Overlook the Value of a Snack

Chef Daniel Orr can put a lot of substance in a snack and make it memorable. Here is how.

A Quick Treat for Your Valuable Time

Having a quick meeting over snacks is a terrific idea. Because the amounts are minimal, you can just stop ordering, walk out, and find another place if things are not going your way. Serious fun is more vital than serious food. Great components should be displayed on plates in an informal, inviting way. If you want to keep people guessing, throw in a few surprises. People are willing to try something they might not order at a more formal dinner when the amounts are small, and the pricing is affordable.

The Small Size Can Make a Big Impact

You can prepare a lot of food in advance and serve it promptly when your visitors arrive. Because of this, they are ideal for entertaining around the holidays, when you never know who or how many people may attend. Many can also be packaged and given as gifts to friends. You can draw inspiration from the snacks and "street foods" seen in every culture. Thai, Indian, Chinese, Brazilian, African, Puerto Rican, Caribbean, or Russian cuisine can all be the subject of your party. Join your friends in celebrating your own ethnic heritage or learning about someone else's. Micro portions of the world's cuisine can be learned through snacks.

White Bean Hummus with Rosemary, Citrus, and Spice

2T olive oil

1 medium onion, diced

1tsp lemon zest

Juice of 1 lemon

3 garlic cloves, minced

2 15oz. cans white beans, rinsed and drained

2tsp rosemary, chopped

1tsp New Regime Spice Blend (see recipe)

1T chili powder

Salt, pepper, and favorite hot sauce to taste

New Regime Spice Blend

3T coriander seed

2 pieces star anise

1T fennel seed

2tsp mustard seeds

1tsp cumin seeds

1tsp ginger powder

1 stick cinnamon (1/2”)

1tsp black peppercorns

1tsp white peppercorns

3 bay leaves, dried

½ tsp whole mace

Grind in a spice grinder. Store in an airtight container in a cool, dark place.

Looking for the perfect spot to host your next company party or planning an unforgettable dining experience in Bloomington? Look no further than FARM Restaurant! Reserve your table today by visiting our website, calling us directly at (812) 323-0002, or booking through your OpenTable App. Don’t wait—spaces fill up fast during this busy spring season!