Are you planning on getting together with mates for AFL Grand Final Day at home? Whether you’re hosting a big crowd or just a few friends, having the right finger foods can make the day even more enjoyable. This year, why not add a twist to your game day spread with unique flavours like matcha and chocolate, alongside some healthier options? Here are some fantastic finger food recipes that will score big with your guests, inspired by the vibrant team colours of the Sydney Swans and the Brisbane Lions.
Great Finger Food Recipes for AFL Grand Final Day
1. Chocolate-Covered Strawberries (Inspired by Brisbane Lions’ Maroon)
Description: These indulgent chocolate-covered strawberries are a perfect blend of sweet and fruity. The dark chocolate coating adds a rich flavour that pairs beautifully with the juicy strawberries, making them a delightful treat for any gathering.
Ingredients:
200 grams of dark chocolate
1 cup fresh strawberries
50 grams of white chocolate (for drizzling)
Instructions:
- Melt the dark chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring each time until smooth.
- Dip each strawberry halfway into the melted dark chocolate and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Melt the white chocolate and drizzle it over the chocolate-covered strawberries for a decorative touch.
- Let them set at room temperature or in the refrigerator before serving.
2. Capsicum and Hummus Platter (Inspired by Sydney Swans’ Red)
Description: A colourful and healthy option, this platter features vibrant red capsicum strips served with creamy hummus. It’s a light and refreshing choice, perfect for dipping, and offers a satisfying crunch that complements the rich flavours of the hummus.
Ingredients:
2 large red capsicums, cut into strips
1 cup hummus (store-bought or homemade)
Sliced cucumbers and carrot sticks for variety
Instructions:
- Arrange the red capsicum strips on a platter.
- Place a bowl of hummus in the centre.
- Add sliced cucumbers and carrot sticks around the capsicums for extra colour and crunch.
- Serve with pita chips for dipping.
3. Quinoa and Black Bean Mini Burritos (Inspired by Brisbane Lions’ Gold)
Description: These mini burritos are packed with wholesome ingredients like quinoa, black beans, and fresh veggies. They’re not only nutritious but also full of flavour, making them a great handheld option that’s easy to enjoy while cheering for your team.
Ingredients:
1 cup cooked quinoa
1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
1 red bell pepper, diced
1/2 red onion, diced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Small whole wheat tortillas
Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
- In a large skillet, drizzle some olive oil and warm it over medium heat. Toss in the diced red onion and bell pepper, and sauté them until they become tender and fragrant.
- Stir in the black beans, corn, cooked quinoa, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until heated through.
- Spoon the mixture onto the centre of each tortilla and roll up to form mini burritos.
- Secure with toothpicks if necessary. Serve warm, garnished with fresh cilantro.
4. Greek Yogurt and Herb Dip with Grilled Veggies (Inspired by Sydney Swans’ White)
Description: This creamy Greek yoghourt dip, infused with fresh herbs and garlic, is a healthier alternative to traditional dips. Paired with beautifully grilled vegetables, it’s a delicious and refreshing snack that’s perfect for dipping.
Ingredients:
1 cup Greek yoghourt
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
Juice of 1/2 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste
Assorted vegetables for grilling (zucchini, capsicum, eggplant, mushrooms, etc.)
Olive oil for drizzling
Instructions:
- Prepare the Dip:
In a bowl, combine Greek yoghourt, minced garlic, dill, parsley, chives, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Transfer the dip to a serving bowl and set aside.
- Grill the Vegetables:
Preheat your grill or barbecue.
Slice the assorted vegetables into even pieces.
Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
Grill the vegetables for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are tender and have nice grill marks.
- Serve:
Arrange the grilled vegetables on a platter around the bowl of Greek yoghourt dip.
Serve warm or at room temperature, and enjoy dipping the veggies into the creamy dip.
5. Baked Sweet Potato Fries (Inspired by Brisbane Lions’ Gold)
Description: Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these baked sweet potato fries are a delicious and nutritious alternative to regular fries. Tossed with spices, they offer a sweet and savoury flavour that pairs perfectly with any dipping sauce.
Ingredients:
2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into thin fries
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 220°C (425°F) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, toss the sweet potato fries with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the fries in a single layer on the prepared baking tray.
4, Bake for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through, until they are crispy and golden brown.
5, Serve immediately with your favourite dipping sauce.
6. Matcha Mojito Cocktail (Inspired by Sydney Swans’ White)
Description: This refreshing matcha mojito combines the earthy flavour of matcha with zesty lime and fresh mint. It’s a vibrant cocktail that not only tastes great but also adds a unique twist to your drink offerings on game day.
Ingredients:
1 teaspoon matcha powder
1 tablespoon hot water
1 teaspoon sugar
Juice of 1 lime
8-10 fresh mint leaves
1 tablespoon simple syrup
2 ounces white rum
Soda water
Ice cubes
Lime wedges and mint sprigs for garnish
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, whisk together matcha powder and hot water until smooth.
- In a cocktail shaker, gently press the mint leaves with a muddler or the back of a spoon, releasing their aromatic oils. Add the fresh lime juice and sugar, then mix them together until well combined.
- Add the matcha mixture, simple syrup, white rum, and a handful of ice cubes to the shaker. Shake well.
- Fill a glass with ice and strain the cocktail into the glass.
- Top with soda water and stir gently.
- Garnish with lime wedges and mint sprigs. Serve immediately.
Cheers to Great Times and Delicious Bites!
Having friends and family gather for AFL Grand Final Day is all about enjoying each other’s company and indulging in delicious gourmet food. These finger foods, bursting with flavour and creativity, will not only satisfy your guests but also create a festive atmosphere. So gather your mates, cheer for your team, and enjoy the fantastic food you’ve prepared. Here’s to great memories, good times, and a thrilling game! Enjoy!
