Charcuterie boards can be intimidating. It’s hard just to say the word. (Pronounced shar-koo-ter-ee.) I am by no means a pro at this but I do have a few ideas to make it easier. The best part about this cuisine is there is no wrong way to do it. You get to decide what goes on your board, or in your jar. Oh yeah, we’ll talk charcuterie and “jarcuteries”.
Let’s start with the definition and a little history. Charcuterie is a French term generally translated as “pork butcher”. It is the culinary art devoted to prepared meat products, such as bacon, ham, sausage, and pates. This French tradition is served in farm-to-table restaurants as an appetizer. A lovely assortment of meats, cheeses, artisan bread, olives, fruit, and nuts, all artfully arranged on a serving board.
Meats And Cheeses
I like to simplify with the 3-2-1 rule. 3 types of meat, 3 kinds of cheese, 2 veggies, 2 grains, 2 dips, 1 fruit, and 1 nut. You can choose to garnish your board, or not. Picking your meats and cheese is the most important part. It gets easier from here.
The most popular meats you’ll want to choose from are pepperoni, salami, prosciutto, soppressata, chorizo, bresaola, capicola, speck, mortadella, and pates. Just pick three!
Consider cheeses like brie, parmigiano, sharp cheddar, gouda, gruyere, provolone, burrata, goat, and feta. Just pick three!
Fruits, Veggies, And Grains
Veggies like olives, peppers, grape tomatoes, even carrots, or cucumbers go well. Some bread choices may be to add french sourdough, asiago ciabatta, your favorite crackers, and even pretzels. Your charcuterie should also include a jam, preserves, mustards, or dip. Keep it simple and just pick two of each.
Fruits like grapes, strawberries, dates, figs. Fresh or dried make great choices. I like to also throw on a nut like almonds, pecans, pistachios, or cashews. One of each is sufficient. The possibilities are endless!
Jarcuteries
And then came the jarcuterie. Cute and simple. These jars will even entice the kids, making a perfect after-school snack. Switch it up for the kids, adding goldfish, carrot sticks, string cheese, raisins, and berries. They are sure to love it!
Using a jar or cup is also a better choice to slow the spread of germs. Not everyone is reaching from the same board that may be sitting out for hours. Personalized cups not only reduce the germs but the dent in your wallet. They are smaller and you can just make one for each person. Make a jar with just meat, cheese, and crackers. Make them with veggies and dip. Do straight fruit cups! So much easier!
Don’t forget to pair your charcuteries or “jarcuteries” with your favorite wine. If you like this post you will love our Pulled Pork Tacos or The Best Guacamole Recipe!
