Charcuterie boards are popular at any group gathering, and if you’ve ever experienced the abundance and wonderment of a Crave Grazing Board, you know why!. Weddings, family parties, romantic dinners, and movie nights are just some of the events where you may have enjoyed charcuterie boards before.
So where did charcuterie boards originate? How did they become so popular around the globe?
What Is a Charcuterie Board?
“Charcuterie” is a French term for the preparation of cured meats. Most charcuterie platters include several types of cold-cut meats and multiple textures of cheeses for guests to enjoy. Crackers and crunchy breads are placed alongside the meats and cheeses.
Some charcuterie boards include salty or sweet garnishes like olives, dried fruits, and nuts. Restaurants often include sauces or dips, like hummus, on their charcuterie menu items. These pair well with the crunchy crackers, toast, and bread on the platter.
Where Did Charcuterie Boards Originate?
Where did charcuterie boards originate before they became a popular American appetizer?
Charcuterie boards started to become popular in France. The term “charcuterie” is made up of two French terms: “chair,” which means flesh, and “cut,” which means cooked.
The word “charcuterie” originally referred to French processed and cured meats that were then served cold.
In America, some popular cold cuts include:
- Sausage
- Beef jerky (dried)
- Liverwurst
- Ham
- Salami
- Turkey
- Pepperoni
You will often find these cured meats on charcuterie boards in the United States.
Other countries have their own preferences for cured meats on charcuterie boards, but the general premise of the board remains the same.
The Benefits of Serving Charcuterie Boards
Charcuterie boards make for the perfect appetizer (or meal) at any event. There are numerous benefits to serving this dish in both formal and informal settings.
Customized for Your Guests
Some guests at certain events can be picky or have dietary restrictions. The great thing about charcuterie boards is that they can be customized to meet your guests’ needs.
If you know that someone has a nut allergy, you can leave nuts off of the board entirely. Dried fruits work well for guests who like to mix savory notes with sweet flavors. The options are endless with charcuterie boards!
There are even vegetarian charcuterie board recipes, which often include plant-based meats and bean dips. You do not have to include real meat on a charcuterie board to make it aesthetically pleasing and appetizing.
Filling and Satisfying
Charcuterie boards will fill people up quickly. Between the starches (crackers or bread), satiating dips like hummus, and various cheeses, you have a balanced meal with protein, healthy fat, and carbohydrates.
Visually Pleasing
Most people love to look at well-prepared and classy-looking appetizers when they attend events. Charcuterie boards are Pinterest-worthy creations, even if they are homemade!
Serve Wonderful Meals with Crave Culinaire
At Crave Culinaire, we believe in providing the perfect evening for you and your guests.
Our Crave Grazing Board makes it easy to enjoy a curated selection of artisanal cheeses, delicious cured meats, pickled vegetables, fresh berries, dried fruits and nuts, jams, crackers, and more.
Allow us to take the food and beverage portion of your event to new heights so you can socialize and enjoy spending time with your guests.
Contact us for more information about our dining and culinary creation services.
