Hey, What’s an Appetizer? Appetizers, Cocktails, Hors d‘oeuvres, and Canapés

What are Appetizers? An appetizer is a small serving of food prepared as the first course of a meal to stimulate the appetite for other foods to follow. An appetizer may be in liquid or solid form. The appearance of an appetizer must be eye-appealing and colorful. Appetizers come in the following forms…

Cocktails Cocktails are chilled appetizers that may be fruit or vegetable juice, fruit, or seafood. Juice cocktails should be bright in appearance and tangy to the taste. Juice cocktails are served in small chilled glasses. Fruit or seafood cocktails are arranged for attractiveness and cut bite size to avoid too much chewing.

Hors d’oeuvres Small servings of highly seasoned foods. Can be served hot or cold and include such popular preparations as baked oysters on the half shell, stuffed mushrooms, stuffed celery, and stuffed eggs. In addition, hors d’oeuvres may be the chef’s own creation and may be served before dinner or as a snack.

Canapés Canapés are toasted or plain bread with a rich savory paste or butter spread, cut into small shapes and decorated for eye appeal. Crackers may be used as a base; however toasted bread is more desirable as it will not absorb moisture of spread as quickly. When preparing canapés variety and imagination are the key to success. They are an excellent way to use up leftovers.

Canapés Continued When preparing canapés use several different types of bread cut into creative shapes. Choose spreads that create good eye appeal and good taste, then garnish. Hot canapés are prepared in the same way as cold canapés but with less garnish. Hot canapés are heated in an oven or under a broiler and served hot.