Euro 2020 food
Whether you’re into football or not, there’s no getting away from UEFA’s knockout tournament Euro 2020.
As we write this, England is currently preparing to face old enemy Germany in the round of 16 ties, and people all over the nation are planning get-togethers with family and friends (Covid restrictions followed, of course) for the different key events in the Euro 2020 calendar.
Although our interest in football is divided within the PTG team, we can all agree on the need for snacks during a game. And even better than a bag of nuts is thinking about some nation-inspired food to accompany the games.
So here is some food inspiration for you based on the surviving 16 teams left in the tournament. From finger food and savoury delicacies to main courses and delicious desserts, these suggestions will get your taste buds as excited as the anticipation of the games to come.
Austria
We couldn’t mention Austrian food without mentioning Schnitzel; thin, breaded meat, deep-fried to perfection. Serve with salad or potatoes.
Belgium
It’s just got to be Moules-Frites, an absolute classic of a dish born in Belgium. Cook in buttery parsley and white wine sauce and serve with French fries.
Croatia
Fritule are doughnut-like fried pastries covered in powdered sugar and filled with rum and raisins. Typically served at Christmas, they are so tasty they are definitely not exclusive to the festive season. Although the recipe can vary depending on which region it’s from, typically, they combine egg yolks, raisins, grated lemon or orange rinds.
Czech Republic
For our Czech entry, it has to be Bramboráky – traditional Czech potato pancakes made from shredded potatoes, crushed garlic, milk, cumin, marjoram, eggs, salt, and pepper. Popular at food festivals and beautiful paired with goulash, we have heard that many Czechs also enjoy them with a cold beer.
Denmark
For a true Danish classic, we look no further than Smørrebrød. These ‘open’ sandwiches are made using a slice of rye bread topped with various combinations such as pickled herring, roast beef, eggs and vegetables. Simple yet delicious.
England
You may have been expecting fish and chips for our England option, but instead, we’re opting for the good old Scotch Egg. Fortnum & Mason lay claim to this food invention started first documented in 1738 (it is not actually Scottish), and they have been loved by Brits ever since. A hard-boiled egg wrapped in sausage meat and rolled in breadcrumbs – these can be eaten hot or cold and are perfect football fodder.
France
When it comes to French food, the list of suggestions is endless. But we’ve settled for cheese (and wine if you fancy). French cheeses are some of the best out there, and a good cheeseboard can’t be played down. So grab yourself a wedge of brie, some camembert or a lovely piece of Roquefort and pair with some crusty french bread or the more British cracker.
Germany
For the German touch to your Euro 2020 catering, we’ve selected Fränkische Bratwurst. This sausage is traditionally served with sauerkraut (another German favourite) or potato salad or simply in a bread roll or some strong rye bread. Think of it as a European twist to a hot dog and a lot tastier.
Italy
An obvious choice, we know, but it has got to be pizza. We don’t mean the American twist on this dish; we’re talking traditional rustic bases with a herby tomato sauce, a generous portion of prosciutto, large chunks of fresh mozzarella, a sprinkle of hand-picked herbs and a dash of olive oil. Delicious!
Netherlands
Something a little different from our Dutch friends – Hollandse Nieuwe. If you’ve never tried raw herring, then now is the time. Generally from a specific catch, this Dutch delicacy is often served with onion or pickles and is very tasty and incredibly healthy! Although we’re not sure you’ll be able to pick any up locally, so maybe opt for the Stroopwafels instead (available in Sainsbury’s).
Portugal
For a much more exciting twist on the sausage roll, from Portugal, we have Pão com chouriço. These dough rolls filled with the Portuguese pork sausage known as chouriço (similar to Spanish chorizo) are filling and extremely tasty with a spicy kick – a sure-fire winner with anyone looking to grab a snack while watching the game.
Spain
Spain offers up so many tasty suggestions; it is challenging to decide on just one. But we have, and we’re going for croquetas de jamón! Such a great little snack, crispy on the outside but creamy on the inside. Spanish croquettes can have many fillings, but the Spanish ham and bechamel sauce together creates such a flavour combination that these are our winners for Spain (even if we’re not rooting for their national team).
Sweden
When you think of Sweden, you almost certainly think of meatballs, and we’ve opted for Köttbullar as our Swedish suggestion. Served in a creamy sauce with a side of mash, you’ll definitely need a bowl and fork to eat these little lovelies. But a quick trip to IKEA before the game will stop you from having to make them from scratch.
Switzerland
To put a whole new spin on your Euro’s get-together, why not whip out a Raclette. This traditional Swiss dish pairs melted Raclette cheese (similar to Gruyere) with anything and everything you can think of, including meats, vegetables and jacket potatoes. Scrape it off the melting platter for what can only be described as a taste sensation and an alternative to the famous fondue.
Ukraine
We have to thank Ukraine for the Chicken Kiev, and this is probably one of our favourites. Chicken fillets encasing a garlic butter, then fried – they take a lot of practice to get right if you’re making them from scratch, but luckily, most restaurants and supermarkets can help if you don’t have the patience before a big game. Serve with potato or creamy polenta.
Wales
Last but no means least, we have the Welsh Rarebit. Such a perfect dish for a football game, and it will go down well with a beer or a soft drink (whichever is your preferred tipple). Quite simply put, it’s the best cheese on toast you will ever eat. Opt for a strong Welsh cheddar and add a little mustard for a bit of a flavour kick. Finish with some spring onion as a garnish and sit back and enjoy.
