Food Plating Techniques

Food Plating Knowledge: Plating Techniques

What is Plating Techniques?

• Food Plating Techniques is a way of serving food by using the art of food presentation such as in processing, arranging, and decorating food to increase the aesthetic appeal on the plate.

Plating Technique

Read: Mother Sauces

5 Ways of Plating Techniques

1. Classic (Clock Method)
2. Landscape
3. Free-form
4. Organic Material
5. Non-traditional and alternative receptacles

1.1. Classic (Clock Method)

• Classic- clock technique- Main 3-9 (best at 6), starch 9-11, veggies 11-3 
• Sauce placement typically on and near the main ingredient and a simple garnish

Classic Method

Read: Types of Breakfast

1.2. Landscape

• Taking inspiration from landscaped gardens, this linear arrangement of food is usually kept low and long

Landscape

Read: Types of Bread

1.3. Free-Form

• Just like modern paintings, painting, or placing food with abstract style or natural on a plate.
• Free-form-more fluid-natural-modern art

Freeform

Read: Types of Hors d’oeuvres

1.4. Organic Material

• Organic Material:  Using organic materials to plate food on for a more rustic feel.
• Organic materials such as wood, slate, or stone can be used in plating to lend a natural element to your dish. 
• When plating with organic materials, ensure the items are cleaned and sanitized thoroughly before use

Organic Material

Read: 5 Types of Thick Soup in Culinary Knowledge

1.5. Non-Traditional/ Futuristic

Non -traditional/ Futuristic

Read: Types of Cake Decoration

Plating Techniques Tips

1. First things first. 

• The focal point of the plate should be all about the main ingredient. 
• Support ingredients such as garnish, sauce, or vegetable should be there to highlight the main ingredient.

2. Try to use different shapes and textures 

• Main Ingredient (protein), Side dishes (potato, rice, pasta, etc.), vegetables to garnish the plate that contrast the shape and texture of the dish.

3. Contrasting colors are necessary for a lively looking plate.  

• Plates usually look appealing when they have 2 neutral colors and 2-3 bright contrasting colors.
• Use your plate ware wisely.  
• The best plate is white in color. 

4. Make sure the plate makes sense 

• If your food doesn’t taste good, it will translate into the presentation. 
• Only use components that add to the overall flavor and functionality of a dish.  
• Never use a garnish that serves no purpose other than as a visual contribution

5. Practice and practice, the best part about practicing with food is it’s fun.

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