When buying a charcuterie or “Shaa – koo – tuh – Ree” board , there are several design features to consider. Here are ten features to look for:
1. Size and Shape: Choose a board that suits your needs . Consider the number of guests you typically serve and the space available for displaying the board.
2. Material: Look for a charcuterie board made from high-quality and food-safe materials such as wood, bamboo, or marble. These materials provide a natural and aesthetically pleasing look.
3. Durability: Ensure that the board is durable and resistant to cracks or warping. A well-constructed board will withstand frequent use and cleaning without losing its quality.
4. Surface Texture: Opt for a charcuterie board with a smooth surface texture that is easy to clean. Avoid boards with deep grooves or rough finishes that can trap food particles or make cleaning difficult.
5. Grip Design : Consider a board designed for easy carrying and serving. This feature makes it convenient to transport the board from the kitchen to the serving area.
6. Presentation Space: Look for a board that offers enough space for arranging and displaying various charcuterie items. It should have ample room for an assortment of cheeses, cured meats, fruits, nuts, and other accompaniments.
7. Cheese Knives or Cutlery Slots: Some charcuterie boards come with built-in slots or dedicated areas to hold cheese knives or cutlery. This feature adds functionality and helps keep the utensils organized.
8. Juice Grooves: Juice grooves or wells along the edges of the board can contain any juices or liquids that may be released from the food items. This prevents the liquids from spilling onto the table or countertop.
9. Non-Slip Feet: Select a charcuterie board with non-slip feet or rubber pads to prevent it from sliding or scratching your outdoor surfaces
10. Maintenance: Ensure that the board is easy to clean and maintain. Some boards may require specific care instructions, such as hand washing or occasional oiling, so consider the maintenance requirements before making a purchase.
Remember, personal preferences and specific needs may vary, so it's important to choose a charcuterie board that aligns with your style, functionality requirements, and budget.
What are the best foods to serve on a Charcuterie board ?
When it comes to creating a delicious board, the key is to offer a variety of flavours, textures, and colours. Here are some popular and versatile foods to consider including:
• Cured Meats: Prosciutto, salami, chorizo, pancetta, or any other cured meats you enjoy. Offer a mix of flavours and textures to cater to different preferences.
• Cheeses: Include a selection of cheeses with varying tastes and textures. (eg aged cheddar, brie, gouda, blue cheese, goat cheese, and Manchego.)
• Crackers and Bread: Offer a variety of crackers, such as water crackers, breadsticks, and crispbreads. Include sliced baguette or crusty bread as well.
• Olives: Choose a variety of olives, such as green, black, or stuffed options, to add a savory element to the board.
• Nuts: Include a mix of roasted and salted nuts, such as almonds, cashews, pistachios, or walnuts. They provide a crunchy texture and complement the other flavours.
• Fresh Fruits: Add some freshness and colour with sliced fruits like grapes, figs, berries, or apple slices. They provide a nice contrast to the savory components.
• Dips and Spreads: Offer a selection of spreads like hummus, tapenade, or pâté. These can be spread on the crackers or bread and add additional flavours.
• Pickles and Preserves: Include cornichons, pickled onions, or other pickled vegetables to provide tanginess and balance the richness of other ingredients. Add some fruit preserves or chutneys for a touch of sweetness.
• Chocolate: A few squares of good-quality dark or milk chocolate can provide a sweet indulgence amidst the savory items.
• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle some fresh herbs like basil, rosemary, or thyme over the board for added fragrance and visual appeal.
Feel free to experiment and personalise your charcuterie board based on your taste preferences and dietary restrictions.
You can buy the Deals lab Charcuterie Board for $69.99 today with volume discounts for multiple or corporate sales As always Deals Lab has fast free delivery Australia-wide on all products.