If you’ve come across the word “charcuterie” before and been puzzled, and we wouldn’t blame you. The word looks odd and sounds even odder, and if you’ve never had the opportunity to be in the vicinity of a charcuterie board, seeing it on a menu might have you raising your eyebrows. If you’ve ever wondered what the heck a charcuterie board is and why anyone would want to eat one, we’ve got you covered.
The charcuterie board has been through a bit of a Renaissance in the past couple of years. Pronounced “shaar-koo-tr-ee,” you may know it as a meat and cheese board or antipasti platter. These appetizers are often served at the beginning of a meal at a fancy restaurant or make appearances at co*cktail parties and other get-togethers. They’re often laid out on a wooden board or other large platter and arranged in a way that’s appealing to the eye as well as the nose. Cured meat is the star of the show, and everything else that is included serves to enhance the flavor and texture of the preserved proteins.
While they’ve been around for decades, this recent reawakening of interest in the finger food has restaurants and bars across the U.S. putting their own versions on the menu, some of which can get really creative. There’s also the option of making your own at home, where you can have all of the freedom to design a board that’s most appealing to you.
At The Mill Kitchen and Bar, a downtown Roswell restaurant, our charcuterie boards include a decadent selection of our chef’s pick of meats, cheeses and accompaniments designed to pair together exceptionally well. If you’re still not convinced you should try it on your next night out, let us give you some reasons why we’re glad charcuterie has made a comeback.
There’s No One Way to Do It
Charcuterie boards are one of those things that no two people would prepare the same way, which we think is what makes them so great. There are literally endless options for the items to include on a charcuterie board, as well as ways to arrange them. Here are some of the most popular items you’ll find on a charcuterie board:
- Meats including prosciutto, salami, pepperoni, sausage, pâté, and more
- Artisan cheeses including chevre, brie, cheddar, gouda, and muenster
- Dried and fresh fruits including figs, apricots, dates, grapes, sliced apples, and berries
- Vegetables like olives, peppers, and carrots
- Pickles
- Nuts
- Seeds
- Honey
- Preserves
- Spreads
- Bread
- Crackers
No Utensils Are Required
One of the coolest things about a charcuterie board, in our opinion, is that it is a very tactile eating experience. Aside from the spoons or spatulas you may use to apply spreads and items to your plate, utensils aren’t necessary for eating items from a charcuterie board!
They Bring Us Closer Together
There’s nothing quite like getting together with friends to share an appetizer, and charcuterie boards are the most easily shareable appetizer we can think of. Gathering around a charcuterie board to pick out your favorites, try new combinations and discuss your preferences is almost as fun as the eating itself! And there is hardly ever any waste—if you aren’t a fan of an item on the board, you can bet someone else is!
Visit The Mill Kitchen and Bar for Dinner in Roswell
Now that you have a greater understanding of what a charcuterie board is and why they’ve (rightfully) regained their popularity, make a reservation for dinner at The Mill Kitchen and Bar to sample one while you dine on signature co*cktails and farm-to-table eats. What a great way to entertain kids by involving them in culinary experiences! We’re the go-to restaurant for dinner in Roswell, so make your reservation today! (770) 817-9345
Frequently Asked Questions about The Mill Kitchen and Bar
What does charcuterie mean?
The word charcuterie is French, and describes the practice of cooking with meat products. It is derived from the words “chair,” which means “meat” and “cuit,” which means “cooked.”
What should be on a charcuterie platter?
A charcuterie platter typically consists of preserved or prepared meats, artisan cheeses, spreads, honey, fruits and vegetables, and nuts and seeds.
Where can I get charcuterie near me?
At The Mill Kitchen and Bar, you can find the best charcuterie board in Roswell on our dinner menu. Make a reservation by calling (770) 817-9345
FAQs
There's nothing quite like getting together with friends to share an appetizer, and charcuterie boards are the most easily shareable appetizer we can think of. Gathering around a charcuterie board to pick out your favorites, try new combinations and discuss your preferences is almost as fun as the eating itself!
What is special about a charcuterie board? ›
It features a selection of preserved foods, especially cured meats or pâtés, as well as cheeses and crackers or bread. In Europe 'charcuterie' refers to cold meats (e.g. salami, ham etc.) and the term 'charcuterie board' would not be widely used for a board like this.
How do you describe a charcuterie board? ›
A charcuterie board is a tray that includes cured meats, cheeses and a variety of sweet and savory bites as well (including miniature pickles, olives, fig spreads, apricot preserves, whole grain mustards, honeycomb, and more).
What is an interesting fact about charcuterie? ›
Charcuterie is derived from the French words for flesh (chair) and cooked (cuit). The practice of salting and smoking meats to preserve them dates back about 6,000 years to ancient Rome. Charcuterie is rooted in the belief that nothing from the animal should be wasted; not even the heart, lungs, kidneys, fat, or brain.
What makes a charcuterie board appetizing? ›
Fruits and veggies add color and freshness to a charcuterie or meat and cheese board. They're also a tasty contrast to rich, salty meats and cheeses. When planning which items to include, consider foods that can be eaten whole or cut into slices.
What is the big deal with charcuterie boards? ›
They're a safe option
I mean, you have something for everyone without the fuss. Again: meat, cheese, crackers, spreads, veggies, fruit; it's like a build-your-own snack adventure. Picky eaters can make their plate into their ideal choice, creating a laid-back and stress-free food environment.
What is the 3-3-3 rule for charcuterie? ›
No matter the style of the wood charcuterie board, you can always follow the 3-3-3-3 rule. Every charcuterie board should have three meats, three cheeses, three starch options, and three accompaniments, such as fruit, nuts, or veggies.
What is the objective of the charcuterie board? ›
The ultimate objective of a charcuterie board is to provide an enjoyable, and delicious, experience that will have people coming back for more.
How do you compliment a charcuterie board? ›
What to serve with a charcuterie board, Marcona almonds, or shelled pistachios are great to add crunch.
- Fresh fruits.
- Fig spread or jam.
- Slice a baguette, water crackers, sea salt flatbread, and pita chips.
- Apricot jam.
- Kalamata olives.
- Fresh figs (Stuffed figs are perfect for a cheese plate)
- Dill pickles (not a fan)
Before we delve into the popular boards of the day, let's first understand where the word “charcuterie” comes from. The word is actually derived from the French (surprise!) and the words chair/flesh and cuit/cooked. Way back in the day, the word described French shops that sold products made from pork.
Origin and Purpose of Charcuterie Boards
As bases for this classic board changed to wood or slate today, so has its usage — it commonly serves as an appetizer before dinner or a light snack. Furthermore, this visually stimulating dish allows creative culinary combinations while enjoying quality ingredients.
What is the benefit of a charcuterie board? ›
Here is a list of some of the health benefits of a healthy charcuterie board:
- High Protein Content.
- Healthy Fats.
- Low-Carbohydrate.
- Rich in Vitamins.
- Iron Source.
- Fiber Intake.
- Antioxidants.
- Portion Control.
I've found the following ratio works great: 4 types of cheese, 4 types of meat, 3 types of bread/crackers, 1 type of chocolate, 2-3 different nuts, 1 jam, 1 honey, and 1-2 types of olives. Cornichons are a non-negotiable for me and I always have them on a charcuterie board!
Why did charcuterie boards become so popular? ›
Globalization has undoubtedly had its influence on charcuterie boards. With the international accessibility of various salty and savory meats, cheeses, and condiments, people can create boards with unprecedented levels of variety.
What is the appeal of charcuterie boards? ›
The allure of these boards lies in their variety and the communal experience they offer. Whether it's a casual get-together or an elegant soiree, a charcuterie board adds a touch of sophistication. Its versatility makes it suitable for any event, allowing hosts to cater to different palates.
