IKEA Just Revealed the Most Unexpected Kitchen Item Yet, and It's a Must-Have for Meatball Lovers
If you've ever stared at a plate of meatballs and thought to yourself, these really need a stage, IKEA understands, and it has answered that call. In collaboration with Swedish designer, Gustaf Westman, the Swedish furniture giant has created a 12-piece holiday collection built around one very specific item: a porcelain serving plate designed exclusively for meatballs.
A Plate That Give Meatballs a Throne
The meatball plate is an oblong porcelain trough, roughly a foot long, that holds 11 meatballs in a single-file row, each one elevated like it's sitting on a small stage. In a press release, Westman says the design pays tribute to how Swedish meatballs are tied to the Christmas holiday, stating "this plate is my way of honoring [Christmas] tradition. The design is simple, lining up the meatballs so each one is visible, like they're sitting on little thrones."
Is The Meatball Plate More Humor Than Function?
To say the meatball plate is niche is an understatement. There's even Reddit chatter debating the number of meatballs it could fit, and whether meatballs are deserving of their very own custom tray. Some commenters think the design is backwards, suggesting the meatballs should surround the plate with the center channel filled with gravy or a dipping sauce. Westman however, stands by his design. "I love designing objects for a specific function—it brings a touch of humor and makes them instantly easy to grasp...and while it was created with meatballs in mind, it works just as well for many other dishes." he stated.
The Meatball Plate Can Be Versatile
Despite its name, the meatball plate isn't limited to Swedish meatballs. IKEA recommends using it as an appetizer platter for olives, cheese, veggies, crackers, or even sushi. Basically, any snack can fit around the outside, while dips and sauces can be placed into the center groove. With a little creativity, the meatball plate can be a versatile party platter that will definitely put a spotlight on whatever you choose to serve on it.
Should You Buy Ikea's New Meatball Plate?
If you're a minimalist who only chooses items based on practicality, the meatball plate probably isn't for you. But if you enjoy a bit of whimsy, appreciate eccentric design, and enjoy lighthearted parodies, you'll most likely enjoy the, "why did they make that?" conversation at your next dinner party. It's a reminder that IKEA doesn't just sell furniture—it sells fun, approachable design that makes you stop, smile, and think about how to serve even the simplest of foods.
Whether the meatball plate becomes a cult classic or a collectible oddity, one thing's for sure: this is the kind of kitchen accessory that keeps the dinner table interesting.