Photo credit: www.bonappetit.com
In the world of culinary presentation, sometimes a dish needs that special touch to elevate it. A meticulous plating or a unique garnish can transform an ordinary meal into a show-stopping centerpiece that garners admiration from guests.
Leading the trend this season is edible glitter, a dazzling decorative element that can imbue dishes with a radiant shimmer. This technique has been embraced by bakers and pastry professionals alike, who have long experimented with adding a touch of sparkle to desserts. Now, it’s time to explore how everyone can join in on the fun.
Innovative hosts and culinary stylists are creatively incorporating glitter into their culinary repertoire, showcasing that its use is not confined to sweets. For instance, in Berlin, creative director Hannah Kleeberg has made waves by dipping cherries in a captivating iridescent syrup that adds flair to her dinner parties. Meanwhile, the Rosewood London has introduced a unique aperitif where food artist Imogen Kwok has coated peanuts with shimmering pearlescent dust. With a simple sprinkle, edible glitter can transform a variety of dishes into festive presentations, infusing them with a whimsical, yet elegant allure.
If you’re looking to enhance a dish with a touch of sparkle, here are some suggestions on how to do so effectively.
Make Savory Dishes Shine
One of the appealing aspects of edible glitter is that it is typically flavorless, allowing it to complement a wide array of dishes. While it’s a common adornment for sweet treats like cakes and cookies, it can also add a dazzling touch to savory options. From savory popcorn to zesty lemon-infused dishes or spicy curries, any flavor can serve as a beautiful backdrop for a shimmering effect.
Understanding Safety Standards
Before reaching for that glitter, it’s crucial to examine the label on your product. Edible glitter comes in two categories: “edible” and “nontoxic.” The term “edible” indicates that the product has been approved by the FDA for human consumption and typically contains an ingredient list that includes starch, food coloring, and various stabilizers. On the other hand, “nontoxic” glitter is safe for occasional consumption but should not be considered a part of a regular diet, similar to how crayons or chalk might be harmless if ingested in small amounts.
Creating Sparkling Beverages
Drinks adorned with glitter have become increasingly popular, seen in creations like Starbucks’ glitter-infused Unicorn Frappuccino or Shake Shack’s dazzling Valentine’s Day milkshake. Drinks and glitter complement each other well, ranging from extravagant to subtly elegant—such as a shimmering touch in a classic martini. To maximize the visual impact, use a clear or lightly tinted glass and serve it promptly, as some glitter tends to settle over time.
Mix: Incorporate a fine glitter into the mixture (or add a few shakes into a cocktail shaker for an even distribution) to achieve a soft, shimmering effect.
Sprinkle: Apply glitter directly onto the drink’s surface just before serving for a sparkling finish.
Brush: Utilize a decorating brush to add a touch of sparkle to garnishes like lemon wedges, berries, or olives, heightening the overall appeal of the drink.
Source
www.bonappetit.com