Some people call it an antipasti platter. Others think of it as hors d’oeuvres, while many just see it as a basic cheese and meat snack. Whatever you call it, a charcuterie board is a great way to feed friends and family, be it for a party, an appetizer or even as a simple meal.

Charcuterie started out in 15th century France as a way to spotlight meats, especially pork dishes. Today, that meaning has expanded well beyond just meat to include cheeses, pickles, crackers, fruits and vegetables. Living in Kansas, we are lucky to have a number of farms and companies that make delicious items perfect for a charcuterie board. So be sure to look for local-made items to help support our state’s hard-working farmers and cooks.  

What are the components of a good charcuterie board? It can be just about anything as long as it can be eaten with your fingers. Here’s a list, including some of the Kansas-made selections shown in the photo:

• Meats: Thinly-sliced meats like prosciutto, salami and ham are some common suggestions. So are smoked sausages, such as summer sausage and kielbasa. The summer sausage on this board was found at Alma Creamery.
• Cheeses: Look for a variety of styles (soft, hard) and flavors (mild, sharp). This board features cheese curds from Alma Creamery, along with a French triple-cream, U.S. goat cheese and small mozzarella balls in with the tomatoes.
• Pickles and olives make great additions. So do dried fruits and nuts. I like honey-toasted peanuts from the Sunflower Food Company for a little sweetness.
• Fresh fruits and veggies also make a good addition. This board has radishes, sliced orange peppers and cherries, but you can choose just about anything available at the farmers’ market or your garden (like these cherry tomatoes), depending on the season.
• Spreads are also often found on the board. Pâté, hummus and cheese spreads are some common ones. I sometimes like to include fig jam, which goes nicely with a lot of cheeses and game meats.
• Bread and crackers round out the board, but if you’re anything like me, there often isn’t any room left on the board at this point. That’s when I just serve them on the side, along with anything else that doesn’t fit. However, on this board, Jack’snak honey-toasted sesame crackers take center stage.

Pair a charcuterie board with wine and cocktails for a more elegant gathering, or beers and soda for something casual, like a tailgate for football watch party. My favorite is to sit the board in the middle of the table for an easy, casual supper. It’s a great way to relax with friends or to enjoy a simple meal at the end of a busy day.

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December 15, 2017

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