Planning a Saturday brunch can be a delightful way to enjoy time with friends and family, but it doesn’t come without its share of challenges. From burnt pancakes to running out of ingredients, many things can go wrong at the last minute. Here’s a quick guide on how to tackle some common brunch Saturday Dubai problems so you can keep things running smoothly.
Running out of ingredients:
It’s easy to underestimate the amount of food needed for a brunch. If you find yourself short on ingredients, consider making creative substitutions. For example, if you’re low on eggs, substitute with Greek yogurt or applesauce in baked goods, or shift the menu focus to other dishes like oatmeal or smoothie bowls. If you’re missing a key ingredient for a drink, improvise with whatever juices, fruits, or garnishes you have on hand to create a unique blend.
Burnt or overcooked food:
Whether it’s pancakes, toast, or omelettes, food can burn if you’re juggling multiple dishes at once. To avoid this, use a timer and stick to lower heat settings for better control. If something does burn, salvage what you can by cutting off the overcooked sections or turning the burnt toast into crispy croutons for a salad. Additionally, keep a few “quick cook” items, like frozen pastries or fresh fruit, ready to act as substitutes if needed.
Food that won’t stay warm:
Keeping dishes like scrambled eggs or pancakes warm can be tricky. To keep food warm, preheat your oven to a low temperature (around 90°C/200°F) and place dishes inside as they’re cooked. Alternatively, use a slow cooker on a warm setting for soups, casseroles, or even pancakes, which will stay warm without drying out.
Guests with various dietary needs:
Balancing various dietary needs can be challenging, especially if you have vegetarians, gluten-free guests, or people with allergies. A build-your-own food station is a simple solution. For example, set up a yogurt or oatmeal bar with toppings like nuts, fruits, and honey, or create a salad station where everyone can customize their bowl. This way, guests can pick what suits their dietary preferences, making it easier for you and more enjoyable for them.
Overcrowded kitchen or serving space:
If your kitchen or dining space feels crowded, try setting up a separate drink station with coffee, tea, and juices, allowing guests to help themselves without blocking cooking areas. Additionally, prepare some items in advance, like fruit platters or pastries, to reduce last-minute rushes.