Buffet Platters & Gala Presentation – Garde-Manger – Polish Pottery Tableware

Buffet Platters & Gala Presentation – Garde-Manger – Polish Pottery Tableware

In the cold kitchen, the garde-manger is not only responsible for salads and cold appetizers but also for artful platter presentation. This includes elaborate displays of charcuterie, cheese, smoked fish, and refined aspic dishes and galantines.

The handmade ceramic platters from Ceramika Artystyczna are perfectly suited for this:

•  Available in round, oval, and rectangular shapes

•  From small to XXL for table service or buffet lines

•  Glazed for easy cleaning and hygienic use

•  Temperature-resistant – ideal for cold storage and presentation

•  Elegant and visually striking for both professional and private service

What Is Aspic – and How Is It Made?

Aspic is a clear, flavorful gelatin made from clarified stock (meat, fish, or vegetable) and gelatin.
It’s used to encase or glaze cold dishes, preserve food, and enhance buffet aesthetics.
Common aspic applications include:

• Galantines (rolled poultry dishes in jelly)

• Deviled eggs in aspic

• Cubed fish or ham set in aspic

• Vegetable or herb garnishes embedded in gelatin

Classic Aspic Recipe (1 Liter):

Ingredients:
– 1 L clear, well-flavored stock (veal, fish, or vegetable)
– 12 gelatin sheets or 20 g powdered gelatin
– 1 tbsp white wine vinegar or lemon juice
– Salt, pepper, pinch of sugar
– Optional: egg white for clarification, herbs like tarragon, bay leaf, juniper

Instructions:

1. Heat the stock and season to taste

2. Soften gelatin in cold water, then dissolve in the hot stock

3. (Optional) Clarify with egg white and strain through cheesecloth

4. Allow to cool slightly, then pour into molds or layer over cold ingredients

Aspic Flavor Variations:

• Meaty: veal, beef, or chicken stock

• Fish-based: clear fish or shellfish broth

• Vegetarian: clarified vegetable consommé with agar-agar

• Herbal or acidic: with vinegar, wine or fresh herbs

Decorative Uses of Aspic on Platters:

• Diced aspic as a shimmering garnish on meat platters

• Layered jelly molds with vegetables, eggs, or flowers

• Protective coating for cheese or charcuterie to retain moisture and shine

• Individual molded aspics for amuse-bouches or canapé service

Why Polish Pottery Is Ideal for Buffet Platters:

 Glazed and acid-resistant – suitable for aspic and vinaigrettes
 Dishwasher-safe and hygienic
 Hand-painted, traditional, and visually stunning
 Robust enough for buffet service or cold room storage

From fine hotel buffets and catering events to family celebrations, these platters provide the perfect fusion of beauty and utility.