The words are commonly used interchangeably, but they actually have subtle differences that most people don’t realize. Let’s dive in to the differences between appetizers and hors d’oeuvres.
Purpose and Setting: Hors d’oeuvres can be thought of as ‘mingling food’; small portioned items that are passed around in a social setting. Appetizers on the other hand are often served directly to you while seated at a table.
What is an Hors d’oeuvre?
The word hors-d’œuvre (pronounced awr -durvz) is a French word that quite literally means “outside the work” aka “not part of the ordinary set of courses in a meal”. It’s a dish that can stand on its own as a snack or support the main course. Hors d’oeuvre are often designed to be eaten by hand.
Merriam-Webster defines hors d’oeuvres as “any of various savory foods usually served as appetizers.”
Serving drinks prior to dinner became a custom towards the end of the 19th century. As this new pre-dinner cocktail trend became popular, the British took inspiration from the French and took it one step further by serving hors d’oeuvres or one-bite items before dinner.
Are Appetizers the same as Starters?
There is no difference between appetizers and starters, in the United States especially, the words are used interchangeably to mean a small portion enjoyed prior to a larger meal.
Appetizers || Hors D’oeuvre || Starters || To know more about
FAQ
What is considered an appetizer?
What is a one bite appetizer called?
What do the British call hors d oeuvres?
What’s the difference between hors d’oeuvres vs appetizers?
You might be wondering what’s the difference between hors d’oeuvres vs appetizers. While there is very little difference nowadays, technically appetizers are served as the first course (introduction to a meal), while hors d’oeuvres are served to whet an appetite (before the meal).
How do you eat hors d’oeuvres at a party?
Another rule of thumb for hors d’oeuvres is they should be eaten by hand. When it comes to hors d’oeuvres at a party, one-bite appetizers can be passed or set out on a platter for guests to help themselves. A host should plan on offering three to four types of hors d’oeuvres to their guests.
Can you eat hors d’oeuvres by hand?
Hors d’oeuvre are often designed to be eaten by hand. Merriam-Webster defines hors d’oeuvres as “any of various savory foods usually served as appetizers.” Serving drinks prior to dinner became a custom towards the end of the 19th century.
Can you eat hors d’oeuvres on a buffet?
With buffets, hot hors d’oeuvres can be served in equipment to keep them warm. Cold hors d’oeuvres, on the other hand, can be displayed on platters, in baskets, or on trays. Whatever you do, just remember to make your display visually pleasing. That’s part of the fun of eating hors d’oeuvres!