Need some last minute game day snacks?
Because we know this event is more about the food than the game.
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Anyway, not sure if you’ve heard, but there’s a big football game happening later. And if you’re planning to watch with friends, I think we all know that the food is just as important as the game on TV. To that end, here’s a quick list of some last-minute Super Bowl snack ideas — you should be able to whip any of these up before the big game if you start now!
For when you don’t just want wings…
We know chicken wings are a classic for any football game, but this year, may I suggest some recipes that are just a little bit different? I made my recipe for Chicken 65 a couple years ago for my brother’s Super Bowl party, and I have to say, it was a hit. They’re spicy, zesty, vinegary, and bite-sized, and they’re just as delicious cold if you’re bringing them anywhere. Chicken tikka is also a great crowd-pleaser (and warms up your house if you’re in chilly Philly or the snowy midwest). Both of these require some marinating, but the flavor will be plenty strong enough after just an hour of resting time. Go birds, right?
For the vegetarians…
If wings aren’t your things, there are plenty of options for vegetarian snack foods!! Like these mushroom parmesan tartlets, which pack a punch and can be made with frozen puff pastry in a muffin tin. Or you could make these tandoori tofu nuggets (with optional french fries), which will satisfy even the most ardent chicken-nugget lover. And if you’re inspired by chicken tikka but don’t want the bird of it all, I have a recipe for paneer tikka that’s just as tasty!
For the cheese lovers…
There are so many cheeses out there, and almost all of them can be fried. And a soft, gooey cheese surrounded by crunchy breading is almost always a guaranteed hit. You can go for some classic mozzarella balls, or try frying cheddar, or even a softer cheese like goat cheese or brie. Pair them with a zesty green salad, some fruit, or some chutneys for dipping! In honor of the Kansas City Cheese? Chiefs? There’s something there.
For when you’re in doubt…pakora-fy it out!
Almost anything can be made into a pakora. My go-to, and likely what I’ll be making today, are these onion pakoras. They’re crispy and delicious and I promise they’ll be a crowd-pleaser. This recipe is also very adaptable to anything you want to pakora-fy, like mushrooms, fennel, spinach, and more! If you have paneer, you can also make these paneer pakoras.
For when you just want fried food…
Pakoras might be one of the best fried snacks out there, but if you happen to have a little more time and want something different, you can make these fried mashed potato balls pretty quickly and easily! Note that this recipe is just for the frying, not the mashed potato part - that you’ll have to either buy or make yourself. I’m also a big fan of fried mac and cheese bites. They require a bit more time - you’ll need to make the mac and cheese (I recommend just using boxed), let it cool, then freeze the noodles in an ice cube tray before finally frying them. But based on the timing of this newsletter, I think you can make it if you start now!
There you have it! Whichever team you’re rooting for today, I hope you can agree that any of these snacks would be winners at a game day party. Enjoy the food, enjoy the company, and play ball! (Is that the right sport? Whatever, I’m just here for the snacks.)