GIVE ME YOUR SNACK AND I'LL TELL YOU WHO YOU ARE
Since no one has a bookshelf in the living room anymore (where have they gone, where are they) and the CD rack has been stuck in the nineties, we have to focus on other things to psychoanalyze the hostess. Because it’s a bit reckless to ask upon entering if you can touch the bag collection and inspect the contents (very telling), I have another alternative. Analyze the snack. Really, a table full of snacks and you know it.
1. The address-type
On the table, you’ll find oysters from the fishmonger in the neighboring village H, truly a discovery, jambon Iberico for which they specially went to that fantastic butcher on Haarlemmerstraat in Amsterdam, and of course that delicious Comté from that cheese vendor in the city center (you know, the one with the long line) and baguettes from Le Fournil in Amsterdam (same long line). As for wine, they serve three types. One that your loved one likes, one that you definitely have to try, and your favorite just in case you don’t like the other one.
Analysis: this host and hostess are thrilled that you came, have delved into your taste, and have spared no expense to make you comfortable. They are busy, though. Type young family with multiple children. No time to spend hours in the kitchen, but since they are always at different places for work or other activities, they grab specialties from everywhere. They are adventurous and interested, love classic values but certainly don’t have blinders on. If you’re at the table, they might miss a new find.
2. The Sergio Herman-type
Upon entering, you receive a homemade cocktail with a gin from that one shop in Antwerp. The husband has made a small bite with homemade aioli and mayonnaise. You happen to know the recipe and you already lost interest when you saw the ingredients. But this couple whips it up in a flash. They’ve also put together a playlist for tonight, the Green Egg is probably simmering in the backyard, and the cheese board is already beckoning. There’s a good chance this couple has a house with steel elements (probably a super cool extension), an Eames chair, and exactly the green leaves in a vase that are in vogue now. Everything is perfect, and so are they.
Analysis: they are a bit more in the household rhythm and have time (and money) to discover what they really like and what they can make. Cooking for friends is their hobby. Throwing parties too. ‘Work hard, play hard’ could easily be their tattoo. They take adventurous trips from Japan to LA, but are also fine with a weekend at the Zeeland coast. Wherever they go, it’s cool, but they are so nice that they don’t even realize it.
3. The smoked sausage-types
The five is quickly on the clock with these people, and after the first drink, she dives into the kitchen. A tray with goodies appears. Nacho chips with red sauce, toast with filet americain, smoked sausage with mustard, and some olives. There’s a chance a hospitable pack of cigarettes is also served.
Analysis: the chances are high that these people are a bit older. They know what they like and stick to it. They enjoy life, but adventure doesn’t necessarily have to be part of it anymore. Been there, done that. It doesn’t have to be a weekend to throw a party for them. No, that can also happen on a Monday. They have indeed traveled, but they are happiest at their regular spot, and they’ve been coming there for thirty years.
4. The bruschetta-types
A Brandt and Levie sausage is ready, and there are some bruschetta on a platter. Additionally, there’s raw ham and melon, an abundance of cheeses, and quite large bowls of chips and nuts.
Analysis (psst, this is us): they love good food and would prefer to spend hours in the kitchen making that Sergio Herman recipe for you. But there’s no time, work and the kids are calling. They have their classics, so don’t expect a different culinary adventure every time with these people. But hey, it’s going to be fun, and cozy too. Know that nothing is skimped on and that everything is allowed and possible.
Source image: Pinterest
