Bushra Griffith
When it comes to serving cheese, the type of platter or board you use can elevate the experience. While stone and marble may exude elegance, they require maintenance to prevent odours and discolouration. A popular alternative is slate, which is non-porous and won't absorb flavours or smells. For a more economical option, wood is a reliable choice, whether it's a simple cutting board or a rustic olive wood slab that adds a sense of exotic dining. Bamboo and acacia wood are also popular choices for serving cheese. Ultimately, the best platter for serving cheese is one that suits the occasion and complements the cheeses you've selected, whether they're familiar favourites like Gouda or Brie, or pungent varieties that deserve their own plate.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Material | Wood, marble, stone, bamboo, slate, stoneware, mango wood, acacia wood, plastic |
| Ease of cleaning | Wood, plastic, stoneware (dishwasher-safe) |
| Suitability for cutting | Wood, stoneware, mango wood, acacia wood |
| Aesthetics | Luxurious, elegant, rustic, decorative |
| Portability | Handles, lightweight |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
Wood is a common, economical, and elegant option
Wooden cheese boards are reliable and easy to clean, and they can be found in various forms to fit any budget. You can opt for a simple wooden cutting board or a more elaborate serving platter, depending on your preferences and budget. The key is to choose a board that is large and flat, ensuring it is big enough to fit all your cheeses and accompaniments comfortably.
When selecting a wooden cheese board, consider the type of wood and how it will complement your cheese selection. Different types of wood, such as olive wood or bamboo, can add a unique touch to your presentation. Additionally, the character and story of the wood can enhance the overall dining experience. For instance, serving cheeses from a particular region on a board made from the same region's wood can create a cohesive and immersive dining theme.
Wooden cheese boards are versatile and can be used for various occasions, from casual gatherings to elegant celebrations. They provide a classic and elegant backdrop for your cheese display, allowing the colours and textures of the cheeses to stand out. Whether you're serving a simple cheese plate or a curated selection of fine cheeses, a wooden board will elevate your presentation.
While marble and stone cheese boards are also popular, they require more maintenance due to their porous nature. Wooden boards, on the other hand, are low-maintenance and less prone to absorbing flavours or smells, making them a practical and stylish choice for serving cheese. So, if you're looking for an economical and elegant option, a wooden cheese platter is an excellent choice.
The Art of Serving Old Amsterdam Cheese
You may want to see also
Slate is non-porous, low-maintenance, and won't absorb flavours
When it comes to choosing the best material for a cheese platter, there are a few key considerations to keep in mind. While some people opt for a simple wooden cutting board or a plastic board, those looking for a more elegant presentation may prefer a fine ripened cheese board made of a different material. Slate, a relatively new material in the kitchen, has become rapidly popular for use as a cheese board due to its unique characteristics.
The non-porous nature of slate ensures that it won't absorb the flavours or aromas of the cheese, allowing each cheese to maintain its distinct taste and aroma. This is particularly important when serving multiple cheeses with different flavours and aromas, as it prevents the flavours from blending together on the platter. Using a separate knife for each cheese will further ensure that your guests can savour the unique flavour of each variety.
In addition to its functional benefits, slate also offers a visually appealing presentation for cheese. Its sleek and elegant appearance can enhance the overall dining experience, especially when paired with carefully selected cheeses and accompaniments. Slate cheese boards are available in a wide range of varieties, so it's important to choose a high-quality slate board that suits your specific needs and preferences.
Overall, slate is an excellent choice for a cheese platter due to its non-porous nature, low maintenance, and ability to preserve the integrity of each cheese's flavour and aroma. Its popularity among cheese enthusiasts is well-deserved, and it can elevate a simple cheese platter into a sophisticated and memorable dining experience. Whether you're curating a selection of fine cheeses or simply enjoying a casual gathering, a slate cheese board is a worthwhile investment.
Mac and Cheese: Perfect Pairing Ideas
You may want to see also
Marble and stone are prone to discolouration and odours
Marble and stone cheese boards are elegant and popular choices for serving cheese. However, they require careful maintenance due to their porous nature. Marble, in particular, is susceptible to absorbing foul odours and discolouration if not properly sealed and maintained. This is because marble is a reactive stone that can be etched by acids commonly found in food and drinks, such as wine and tomato sauce.
To prevent these issues, it is recommended to use a food-safe sealer or cleaner specifically designed for marble. However, it is important to note that most typical sealers are not suitable for marble surfaces that come into direct contact with food. Therefore, proper cleaning and maintenance are crucial to keeping a marble cheese board in optimal condition and preventing discolouration and odour absorption.
While marble and stone can be beautiful and unique choices for serving cheese, they require a higher level of care compared to other materials such as wood or slate. Slate, for example, has gained popularity in kitchens due to its non-porous nature, which prevents the absorption of flavours, smells, and discolouration.
In contrast, wooden cheese boards are a more common, reliable, and economical choice. They are easy to clean and can add a rustic or exotic touch to your cheese presentation, depending on the type of wood and its origin. For example, serving cheese on a rustic olive wood slab from Tuscany can evoke a sense of exotic dining.
Ultimately, while marble and stone cheese boards can be aesthetically pleasing, they require diligent maintenance to prevent discolouration and odour issues. Alternative materials such as wood or slate may be more user-friendly and equally elegant options for serving cheese.
The Perfect Pairing: Brie and Crackers
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Bamboo is a lightweight, eco-friendly, and reversible option
When it comes to serving cheese, the platter or board you choose can elevate the entire experience. While various materials are available, bamboo stands out as a lightweight, eco-friendly, and reversible option that offers several benefits.
Firstly, bamboo is lightweight, making it easy to handle and carry when serving cheese. Its lightweight nature also makes it convenient to store and transport, especially if you're taking it to a gathering or picnic. This natural material is also known for its durability, ensuring that your bamboo cheese platter will withstand regular use and provide long-lasting service.
The eco-friendly nature of bamboo is another significant advantage. As a sustainable resource, bamboo is a great choice for those conscious of the environment. It regenerates quickly and doesn't require pesticides or fertilizers during cultivation, minimizing its environmental impact. If you're passionate about sustainability and reducing your carbon footprint, bamboo is an excellent choice for your cheese platter.
Additionally, bamboo is a reversible material, and many bamboo cheese boards are designed to be two-sided. This reversibility offers versatility and can even provide you with two different styles or designs to choose from. For instance, you could use one side for everyday use and the other for special occasions. The reversible feature also allows for easy cleaning, as you can simply flip the board over and use the other side while the first side is being cleaned.
Bamboo cheese platters often come with additional features, such as built-in compartments for crackers, knives, or other accompaniments. These integrated accessories not only enhance the functionality of the platter but also contribute to a more elegant presentation. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply enjoying a quiet night in, a bamboo cheese board provides a practical and aesthetically pleasing way to serve and enjoy your favorite cheeses, along with their accompaniments.
The Brillat-Savarin Cheese: Serving Suggestions and Pairings
You may want to see also
Plastic is a simple, cost-effective, and easy-to-clean choice
When it comes to choosing a platter for serving cheese, plastic is a practical, economical, and low-maintenance option. Here's why opting for a plastic cheese platter is a smart choice:
Simplicity and Cost-Effectiveness
Plastic platters are widely available and typically inexpensive. They are a simple and cost-effective option, especially when compared to pricier materials like marble or slate. You can easily find plastic platters at various price points to fit your budget without compromising on functionality.
Ease of Cleaning
One of the biggest advantages of plastic platters is their ease of cleaning. They are usually dishwasher-safe, making cleanup a breeze. Unlike some materials like wood, which can be more high-maintenance, plastic doesn't require special treatments or conditioners to maintain its quality. Simply wash your plastic platter with mild soap and warm water, or place it in the dishwasher, and it's ready for your next cheese presentation.
Durability and Maintenance
Plastic platters are generally durable and long-lasting. They are less likely to crack or break compared to materials like ceramic or stone. With plastic, you don't have to worry about the same level of maintenance and upkeep as you would with more delicate or porous materials. Plastic platters are also lightweight, making them convenient for storage and transport, especially when bringing your cheese platter to gatherings or events.
Versatility
Plastic platters come in various shapes, sizes, and designs, offering versatility for different occasions. Whether you're hosting a small gathering or a large party, you can find plastic platters to fit your needs. Additionally, plastic platters can be easily dressed up or down to suit the style of your event. With a plastic platter, you have a versatile base that can be adapted to create a simple or elegant presentation, depending on your preferences.
Food Safety
Plastic platters, when made from food-grade materials, offer a safe surface for serving cheese. They are non-porous, reducing the risk of bacteria growth and ensuring your cheese and accompaniments remain safe for consumption. This is especially important when serving soft cheeses or creating a charcuterie board with various meats and cheeses, as food safety is a top priority.
Cheese Ravioli: Portion Sizes and Perfect Servings
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
The best cheese platter materials are those that complement the cheese being served. For example, serving Sardinian sheep's cheese on a rustic olive wood slab from Tuscany will evoke a sense of exotic dining. Slate is a popular choice for cheese boards as it is non-porous and does not absorb flavours or smells. Marble and stone are also options, but they are porous and may emit foul odours if not properly maintained. Other options include bamboo, plastic, or a simple wooden cutting board.
There are a few guidelines to follow when selecting cheeses for a platter. Firstly, serve at least one familiar cheese, such as Gouda or Brie. Then, choose at least one aged or hard cheese, such as cheddar, as these bring texture and bold flavour to the platter. Other popular options include goat cheese, burrata, gorgonzola, and parmesan.
It is recommended to take the cheese out of the fridge and let it come to room temperature before serving. Use a separate knife for each cheese to avoid mixing flavours. Soft cheeses can be served as is, while hard cheeses should be cut into slices or cubes to make it easier for guests to serve themselves. Consider adding accompaniments such as meats, breads, crackers, dried fruits, jams, and condiments.
