The Ultimate Meat And Cheese Platter Guide

A cheese and meat platter is a great, easy-to-make appetiser for any get-together. It's simple: all you need is cheese and meat. However, if you want to elevate your platter, you can add other foods such as crackers, bread, fruits, nuts, dips, pickles, chocolate, and more.

The key to a good platter is variety. This applies to the types of cheese and meat, as well as any accompaniments. You should include a range of textures and flavours, and try to make the platter look appealing by arranging the foods in an attractive way.

Meat and cheese platter vs charcuterie board

Meat and cheese platters and charcuterie boards are a great way to impress your guests at a party or gathering. They are easy to put together, customisable, and can be made to suit a range of dietary requirements.

Meat and Cheese Platters

Meat and cheese platters are a great appetiser or main course, and can be served at any time of year. They are a good option if you are looking for something quick and easy to prepare, with little to no cooking required. Meat and cheese platters are typically served with crackers, bread, nuts, fruits, vegetables, dips, and spreads.

When preparing a meat and cheese platter, it is important to consider the tastes of your guests. It is recommended that you include at least one type of cheese that is familiar to your guests, such as cheddar, Swiss, gouda, or brie. In addition to this, you should try to include a variety of different cheeses that vary in terms of texture, flavour, colour, aroma, and type of milk. For example, you could include soft, spreadable cheeses, as well as hard, creamy, crumbly, or firm cheeses.

Meats for a meat and cheese platter can be cooked or cured. Examples include summer sausage, pulled pork, roasted or fried chicken, pepperoni, tuna salad, sliced steak, and smoked salmon.

Charcuterie Boards

Charcuterie is a French term that refers to the preparing of cured meats, such as prosciutto, salami, ham, bacon, and sausage. A charcuterie board typically includes a selection of cured meats, along with cheese, bread, crackers, olives, and nuts.

When preparing a charcuterie board, it is important to remember that the selection of meat is the centerpiece of the platter. The other elements on the board are there to complement the flavours and textures of the meat. As with a meat and cheese platter, it is recommended that you include a variety of different meats and cheeses, with different textures and flavours.

Meat and Cheese Platters vs Charcuterie Boards

The main difference between meat and cheese platters and charcuterie boards is that the former does not include cured meat. Meat and cheese platters can include any type of meat, cooked or cured, whereas charcuterie boards focus specifically on cured meats.

Both meat and cheese platters and charcuterie boards can be customised to suit different dietary requirements. For example, you could make a gluten-free or keto charcuterie board, or a vegetarian meat and cheese platter.

In terms of presentation, both types of platter can be served on a variety of surfaces, such as a wooden board, slate, marble, or even a baking sheet. It is recommended that you use small bowls or dishes to separate different components and prevent flavours from mixing. You can also use different knives or utensils for each ingredient.

Overall, both meat and cheese platters and charcuterie boards are a great way to feed and impress your guests. They can be customised to suit different tastes and requirements, and are sure to be a show-stopping addition to your next party or gathering.

How to fold meat for a cheese board

If you're looking to elevate your charcuterie board game and impress your guests, learning how to fold meat is a great way to do it. The art of folding meat not only adds a touch of sophistication to your presentation but also creates a visually captivating display that will leave a lasting impression. In this guide, we'll cover everything you need to know about folding meat for a cheese board, from essential tools and preparation tips to popular folding techniques and pairing ideas. So, let's get started and unleash your inner charcuterie artist!

Understanding Charcuterie Boards and Meat Folding Basics

A charcuterie board is a culinary work of art, bringing together an array of cured meats, cheeses, fruits, and accompaniments. While a basic cheese board includes only a selection of cheeses, charcuterie boards feature a variety of meats and can also include other ingredients like fruits and crackers. The term "charcuterie" comes from the French word for cured meats, and the art of folding meat adds different textures and excitement to your board.

Essential Tools and Preparation

Before you begin folding, make sure you have the right tools and prepare your meat properly:

• Sharp Knife: Invest in a sharp knife to slice your meats with precision and ensure neat folds.
• Cutting Board: Use a sturdy cutting board that provides ample space for slicing and folding without overcrowding.
• Parchment Paper or Food-Safe Paper: Use this to line your charcuterie board and prevent cross-contamination, keeping your creation pristine.
• Meat Selection: Choose premium cuts of meat like prosciutto, salami, or coppa for the best experience.
• Temperature Control: Aim for room temperature meat, as it will be easier to fold than meat that is too cold or too warm.
• Trimming: Remove excess fat and rind for a better balance of flavor and texture.
• Slicing: Slice the meats into thin, even pieces to create a harmonious presentation and facilitate effortless folding.

Popular Meat Folding Techniques

Now, let's dive into some popular and eye-catching meat folding styles:

• Prosciutto Roses: Fold a slice of prosciutto in half lengthwise, then roll it tightly into a spiral shape, resembling delicate rose petals.
• Salami Spirals: Make a small incision near the edge of a salami slice and roll it tightly into a spiral for a mesmerizing visual display.
• Coppa Folds: Gently wrap a slice of coppa around itself to create a neat and tidy cylindrical shape.
• Salami Chains: Fold salami slices in half and curve them into each other to form a chain that's easy for guests to pick up.
• Prosciutto Ribbons: Fold prosciutto pieces about halfway up, concentrating on the side with more fat marbling. Press the folded edge, then continue folding back and forth, pinching along the edge to create a handheld fan shape.
• Thin Meat Triangles: Fold thinner meats like capicola in half, then roll them into triangles for a fun presentation that adds height to your board.

Pairing Folded Meats with Accompaniments

Pairing your folded meats with complementary accompaniments elevates your charcuterie board to the next level. Here are some ideas:

• Cheeses: Pair prosciutto roses with creamy brie or sharp cheddar with salami spirals.
• Fruits: Add juicy grapes, sweet figs, or crisp apple slices as palate cleansers between bites.
• Nuts: Offer a crunchy contrast with toasted almonds or pistachios.
• Spreads: Elevate your folded meats with honey, fig jam, or tangy mustard.

Creating stunning meat folds for your charcuterie board is an art that adds sophistication and visual appeal. By following the techniques and tips provided in this guide, you'll be well on your way to crafting a masterpiece that delights both the eyes and taste buds of your guests. Remember to experiment, be creative, and embrace the joy of sharing your culinary creations with loved ones. Happy folding and bon appétit!

How long should cheese sit out for a cheese board?

When preparing a meat and cheese platter, it's important to consider how long the cheese can be left out at room temperature. While a cheese board is a great appetiser for guests to graze on, perishable foods like cheese should not be left out for longer than two hours. However, different types of cheeses will fare better than others. Hard cheeses, such as cheddar, Swiss, gouda and parmesan, can be left unrefrigerated for longer, whereas soft, fresh cheeses like brie, camembert and cream cheese will spoil faster.

To be on the safe side, it is recommended that cheese should only be kept out of the fridge for up to four hours. This is to prevent the growth of bacteria and food spoilage. However, some hard cheeses like parmesan could be left out for up to 24 hours and still be safe to eat, although they may start to dry out and look unappealing.

If you're planning to serve a cheese board, it's best to take the cheeses out of the fridge 20 to 30 minutes beforehand to let them come to room temperature. This will enhance their flavour and texture. If you're replenishing a cheese board throughout an event, it's a good idea to keep the cheeses in the fridge and take them out in waves so that they don't sit out for too long.

How much food to put on a cheese board

When it comes to putting together a cheese board, the most important thing to consider is how many people you are feeding. A good rule of thumb is to provide 2-3 oz of cheese per person if served as an appetizer, and 4-5 oz if served as a meal. If you are serving a lot of accompaniments, people will likely eat less cheese, and vice versa. If you are unsure, it is always better to have too much than too little, and you can always cut hard cheeses into extra-small pieces and spread them out across the board.

For a cheese board for 10 people, you could include:

• 1/4 lb of deli salami
• 1/2 cup of walnuts
• 1 bag of arugula
• 1 large, 15-inch board or platter
• 8 oz of blue or gorgonzola cheese
• 8 oz of goat cheese
• 8 oz of sharp white cheddar
• 24 water crackers
• Black and green olives
• Fresh arugula, for garnish

For a smaller cheese board for 1-2 people, you could scale this down and include:

• 3-5 varieties of cheese (soft, semi-firm, hard/aged)
• 1-2 varieties of cured meats (salami, prosciutto)
• 2-3 varieties of crackers or crusty bread
• Seasonal fruit or dried fruit
• Nuts, such as spicy candied walnuts
• Pickled or marinated items, such as mini pickles or olives
• Something sweet, such as jam or honey (optional)

How to garnish a meat and cheese tray

Garnishing a meat and cheese tray is a fun and creative process that can be done in many ways. Here are some tips to help you get started:

Choose a Variety of Meats and Cheeses:

Select a range of cured meats such as salami, prosciutto, chorizo, pepperoni, or sopressata. For cheeses, opt for a mix of soft, semi-firm, and hard/aged varieties. Include different textures and milk types like cow, sheep, or goat cheese. Aim for at least three to five different cheeses.

Display the Cheeses and Meats Attractively:

Avoid pre-sliced cheese and cut or roll the cheese yourself. Display the cheeses in different ways, such as spears, wedges, cubes, or slices. Fold or roll the meats, or fan them out in a line or half-circle. If using prosciutto, simply drape it onto the board.

Select Accompaniments:

Choose crackers, crusty bread, or a baguette to accompany the meats and cheeses. Add some fresh or dried fruits like grapes, apples, or figs, and nuts such as almonds or walnuts. Include something pickled or marinated like olives or cornichons. You can also add sweet components like jam, honey, or even chocolate.

Arrange the Tray:

Start by arranging the cheese and meats on the platter. Then, add the crackers or bread around them. Fill any empty spaces with fruits, nuts, and other accompaniments. Group items in piles and mix different shapes, sizes, and colours to create a visually appealing display.

Prepare the Tray for Serving:

Cheese tastes best at room temperature, so let the cheese sit for about 30 minutes before serving. If you need to prepare the tray in advance, you can assemble it up to four hours ahead and keep it loosely covered in the fridge. Remove the tray from the fridge 15 to 30 minutes before serving to bring the cheese to room temperature.

Frequently asked questions