That the decoration of a nicely set table is porcelain crockery we can probably agree on. We'll talk about how to arrange the inventory on the table during lunch or dinner another time. Today we'll just quickly summarise that we place a shallow plate about 2cm from the edge of the table, place a simple napkin and a deep plate on top of it. We place a cutlery knife and spoon to the right of the plates, and a fork to the left of the plates. Place the glasses over the tip of the cutlery knife, starting with the basic water glass and moving to the right as the drinks are expected.
As well as the china, the table also includes a salt and pepper shaker, toothpicks, condiments, a vase, a candlestick and other accessories. When dining, we appreciate their practical use and the fact that these accessories make it unnecessary to leave the table. Apart from practicality, a well-chosen, tasteful accessory is also a table decoration. Let's take a closer look at the individual dining accessories.
Salt and pepper shakers. Yes, food should be prepared in such a way that it does not need to be seasoned. However, we are all different and some people just like to add salt, others like it spicy, etc. There are countless salt and pepper shakers on the market. For fine salt, coarse salt, with a manual grinder, with an automatic grinder, in translucent material, in ceramic material, with a hole(s) on the top, on the side, etc. Probably the most versatile and practical is the salt and pepper shaker in translucent material. Nowadays, when everything is adapted to individual needs, we would prefer a salt or pepper shaker with a manual grinder. It looks better on the eye. It is easy to see how much salt or pepper is available. Handling a manual grinder gives you a sense of control over how much you put in your food. Just-ground salt or pepper gives a feeling of freshness. Compared to an automatic grinder, it also has the advantage of not disturbing the atmosphere by making electronic noises and does not need batteries. In order to prevent grinding residue from falling directly onto the tablecloth, when choosing a pepper grinder, we recommend that you reach for one that already has an integrated base.
Seasoning pads for various flavoured oils, vinegar, balsamic vinegar, etc. It is very effective to serve various flavoured oils in glass bottles in which the raw material that flavours the oil is directly inserted. For example, chilli, a sprig of rosemary, thyme or garlic. When buying these bottles, look for a good pouring spout, or if it contains a strainer to catch the ingredients. The trend is to use spray flavourings. It's very easy to use in dishes, there's no risk of spilling or leaving greasy or other stains on the tablecloth.
When choosing sugar or jam jars, few people consider the multifunctional use of these tasteful accessories. Most households fill the sugar bowl and put it back on the shelf even after the meal is over. If we go off the beaten track, we find the sugar jar can be filled with grated Parmesan cheese, basil pesto, crushed sun-dried tomatoes, dried roasted onions, or even artichokes or pickled garlic. It will become your indispensable dining companion.
Accessories that definitely complete the table include multi-tier stands, candle holders, vases and pastry baskets.
Table accessories are really the little things that go a long way. They make dining easier and better. You just have to choose the right ones.
