Charcuterie boards are all the rage these days. They make for a great appetizer or snack, and they’re easy to customize to your liking. Whether you’re a fan of meats, cheeses, or both, there’s a charcuterie board out there for you. In this article, we’ll show where you can find the best custom charcuterie board currently on the market.
Let’s begin by exploring exactly what these are, then proceed to reviewing your best options. 😊
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What is a Personalized Charcuterie Board?
Typically served on a wooden board or stone slab, charcuterie is a type of appetizer that can be eaten directly off the board or portioned onto tableware. It includes a variety of preserved foods, including pâtés or cured meats, cheeses, and crackers or bread.
Many people have begun creating unique and personalized designs that add a beautiful artistic element to these boards, elevating the experience.
If you’re looking for a truly unique personalized charcuterie board we’ve got a list of some great ones below.
History of Custom Charcuterie Boards in the US
In the United States, hosting meals changed during the course of the 19th and 20th centuries. Particularly by the 1910s, formal dinners were mostly supplanted by cocktail parties, when having a variety of finger foods given throughout the night was favored to planned meal courses. The regional charcuteries and cheeses of France, Italy, Germany, and Greece were introduced to American servicemen during World War II, sparking a homegrown interest in European cuisines. But charcuterie boards didn’t gain appeal again until the 1990s when specialized food stores and American supermarket stores began to diversify their product lines. However, with the rise of social media in the 2010s, especially image-based apps like Instagram, charcuterie boards also became extremely complex and expensive, featuring dozens of meats, cheeses, and accompaniments on display for followers and monetization. Chicago-based IRI reports that charcuterie boards are still popular in private gatherings like house and dinner parties due to their ease of preparation.
Why is it Called a Charcuterie Board?
Charcuterie boards 🍽️ are a traditional French meat and cheese platter. The word itself comes from porc, meaning pork (which is a staple when it comes to serving charcuterie). A typical charcuterie board will include various meets, cheeses, crackers, bred, fruit or nuts for accompaniment.
The Benefits of Creating a Personalized Charcuterie Boards
The following are some great benefits of personalizing your own Charcuterie Boards.
It Can Be a Meal at Your Gatherings
Charcuterie can be the perfect meal to serve at your gatherings. It is easy to prepare ahead of time, giving guests something delicious to munch on while they mingle. Charcuterie also has the added advantage of being reasonably inexpensive – available at most grocery stores. Impress your guests with this affordable option!
Your charcuterie board doesn’t have to be elaborate. A few different meats, cheeses and breads will do just fine. Let your guests build their own sandwiches from the ingredients on the board or enjoy them separately.
Every Charcuterie Boards are Unique
Charcuterie boards offer the advantage of customization, so no matter your taste in food is 🍇, you can create your ideal board with ingredients tailored specifically for you. From classic combinations of meats 🍖 and cheeses 🧀 to something completely unique, there’s sure to be a charcuterie board out there that matches perfectly!
It Shows a Classy Vibe in Your Table Set-up
Charcuterie boards have become an increasingly popular way to add a sophisticated touch to your table setting 🍽️. They can be used for various events, from casual get-togethers 🎉 to more formal affairs. If you want to wow your guests 👌at your next gathering, why not serve them on one of these creative (and delicious) boards?
You Can Make it as a Business!
Are you passionate about charcuterie boards and entertaining? 🍴 You might be wondering if it’s possible to make money from it. The answer is yes! Charcuterie boards are currently all the rage and there is definitely a market for them. Here are some tips on how to get started:
- Do your research – identify which charcuterie boards are popular in your region and what people want. There’s no point making a board that no one will buy!
- Start small – You don’t need to go all in from the start. Use what you already have and gradually build up your inventory as customers come in & you get a feel for what actually sells.
- Be creative – There are endless possibilities when it comes to charcuterie boards; don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and designs. 🎨
How to Make a Charcuterie Board?
Charcuterie boards 🍽️ are platters of meats 🍖, cheeses 🧀, fruits 🍓 and vegetables 🥦 that can range in size from a snack 🍲 to an entire meal 🍛. When creating your personalized charcuterie board 🥗, here are a few tips to keep in mind and plan for before you begin:
Step 1: Choose a Board
The very first step you should do in before you dig in and start creating your personalized charcuterie board to actually choose the board that you will be using to serve everything on. It can be a little overwhelming because there are so many different charcuterie board sizes, shapes, and designs.
Check out the following expert advice for when it comes to choosing your charcuterie board below:
Shape
Charcuterie boards come in a variety of shapes, but three basic varieties are the most popular: rectangle, oval and round. Rectangle charcuterie boards provide plenty of room to arrange meats, cheeses and other ingredients without taking up too much room on the board; oval boards tend to be better for smaller gatherings or appetizer-sized portions as they have less surface area for arrangement. Round boards can accommodate larger parties as well as main courses; they provide ample surface area to showcase meats, cheeses and other delectable treats in an attractive manner.
Size
Charcuterie boards come in all sizes, depending on the number of people it will serve. For a small charcuterie board, opt for one that measures 10-12 inches long; medium-sized boards should measure 16-18 inches long while large ones require at least 24 inches in length. 📐
Material
The three most popular materials used for charcuterie boards are wood, slate, and marble.
Wood Charcuterie Boards
Wood charcuterie boards are seen as the most popular type of serving board. The vast majority are made from various hardwoods like walnut, maple or cherry & have a smooth finish. Wood boards are ideal for cutting meat and cheese because they provide a sturdy surface.
Some of the best (and nicest) wood charcuterie boards that you can buy online are:
SMIRLY Bamboo Charcuterie Cheese Board and Knife Set
The SMIRLY bamboo charcuterie cheese board and knife set is a beautiful addition to any cheese lover’s kitchen. The durable bamboo construction ensures that this stylish charcuterie board will stand the test of time, while its removable drawer offers convenient storage for unused knives or other accessories. Plus, the attractive design of the cutting board will surely enhance any dinner party or gathering you host.
The Best Personalized Round Wood Charcuterie Cheese Boards with Cutting Set
If you’re looking for the perfect gift for a kitchen enthusiast or an everyday accessory for your own home, the Pyle Personalized Round Wood Charcuterie Cheese Board with Cutting Set is an excellent choice. This board combines style and functionality with its personalized design and multi-function cutting set.
Personalized Bamboo Cheese Charcuterie Board with Knife Cutting Set and Handle
Treat your family to a luxurious and personalized charcuterie board with the BlauKe Bamboo Cheese Charcuterie Board with Knife Cutting Set and Handle. This stunning set is made of bamboo, a sturdy and renewable material that makes for an elegant presentation in any kitchen or dining room. Perfect for serving up cheese platters, fruit salads, and appetizers.
Personalized Charcuterie Serving Tray Cheeseboard
Bring a touch of rustic, woodland charm to your next gathering with this personalized leaf charcuterie serving tray cheeseboard. This unique board is made from natural durable wood and carved into the shape of a maple leaf. The unique design ensures that every piece of cheese or meat you serve looks as beautiful as it tastes.
Slate Charcuterie Boards
Slate charcuterie boards are becoming increasingly popular because they offer a rustic look. Slate boards are made from thin pieces of stone that have been cut into shapes. They are perfect for serving appetizers or small bites because they can be easily washed after use.
Some of the best slate charcuterie boards that you can buy online are:
Slate Cheese Tray Serving Tray Coochie Board
The Slate Cheese Tray Serving Tray Coochie Board is designed to make entertaining easier than it’s ever been before. And since it’s made from a food-safe & food-grade stone, you don’t have to worry about any cross-contamination between food items on the board.
Large Slate Cheese Serving Boards
The Mdesign Tray Charcuterie Boards Set is an ideal way to entertain or enjoy snacks and hors d’oeuvres in style. This practical set is perfect for hosting dinner parties or casual get-togethers with friends and family – or just as an elegant design piece that adds some style to your kitchen.
Marble Charcuterie Boards
Marble charcuterie boards are a luxurious option for those who want to really impress their guests & make a statement. Especially as marble is a beautiful material that adds a touch of elegance to any setting.
Some of the best marble charcuterie boards that you can buy online are:
The Best Marble Personalized Charcuterie Serving Board Gift Set
For entertaining in style, the MDesign Marble Best Personalized Charcuterie Serving Boards make the ideal present. 😍 This elegant set includes marble boards and a golden handle to provide durable, high-quality surfaces for serving cheese, cured meats, olives, and other small snacks with beautiful backdrop that can be personalized with different cheeses or accompaniments. 🧀🍇
A Great Round Marble Charcuterie Cheese Board Wedding Gift
Luxedesign’s round marble charcuterie cheese boards are made with top-tier materials that are both beautiful and long-lasting. Each board boasts an extra-smooth finish that resists staining or scratching, while marble’s natural cool properties keep food cold when served cold such as smoked salmon or prosciutto. Furthermore, each edge has been expertly polished for a luxurious touch that adds an air of sophistication to any table setting.
A Marble Cheese Board – The Perfect Couples Wedding Gift
This timeless piece of art will add style and sophistication to any table setting. The unique pattern on the marble stands out on its own while serving as a cutting surface and serving plate for cheese or other light snacks. A perfect present for newly weds or couples celebrating their anniversary, this cheese board set will surely be appreciated by all who witness its beauty – whether used every day at the dinner table or only during special occasions. 😍
Step 2: Pick Your Meats and Cheeses
Once you’ve got an attractive serving board, it is essential to select quality meats and cheeses. Here are some tips on selecting the perfect ones: 👀 dip various cured meats like salami, prosciutto, chorizo or soppressata in different kinds of cheese such as Manchego, aged cheddar or Gouda with your meat selection; don’t forget about softer cheeses like brie or camembert which go great with baked goods like crusty baguettes or crackers.
Step 3: Add Some Color with Fruit and Vegetables
If you go the route of using some nice 🍎fresh fruits🍇 and 🥕vegetables🌶️ to your charcuterie board, you can not only create an eye-catching visual display – but you’ll also create something unique that will totally tantalize the senses.
In addition to adding vibrant colors to your food, these fruits & vegetables will also help to pack in valuable nutrients & health benefits to what you’re serving. Carrots, celery, bell peppers, apples, grapes are just a few of the various options you can incorporate in your charcuterie board. And as mentioned before, no only do they supply essential vitamins & minerals, but they pair perfectly with cheese or salami – bringing some next-level taste to your spread. You could even mix in crunchy nuts or dried fruits for even more interesting texture! With so many possibilities at your fingertips & available, there’s literally no limit to the kinds of delicious things you can create just using simple ingredients!
Step 4: Don’t Forget the Crackers!
When creating a charcuterie board, one ingredient that often goes overlooked is crackers. Not only do they add texture and flavor to your board, but they’re also ideal for scooping up condiments or adding crunch in contrast to softer meats and cheeses.
Keep in mind that crackers come in all sorts of shapes, sizes, flavors & textures. So if you’re looking for a subtle addition of flavor that won’t overpower, go with lighter-style classic wafers.
On the other hand, if you’re looking to infuse your spread with some stronger flavors, rosemary-infused crisps can heighten the taste profile when they’re featured as the main cracker attraction of your board.
Mixing different types of crackers together on one plate not only gives you the option of showing off your creativity when crafting the ideal charcuterie board, but it also gives guests a bigger variety of snacking options.
Step 5: Get Creative with Garnishes
Garnishes are an excellent way to add some visual interest and texture to your charcuterie board, making it more inviting for guests. Whether you’re hosting a small gathering or an elaborate celebration, adding garnishes is an easy way to wow them and make everyone’s experience more memorable.
Start by adding vegetables like pickles, olives, carrots or celery sticks for a vibrant pop of color. Sprinkle aromatic herbs such as rosemary or thyme around the board for added dimension and edible flowers like chive blossoms for an extra special touch! If you want to go all out, add 🥜 nuts like pistachios, walnuts and almonds for some crunchiness.
Step 6: Serve with the Best Pair of Drinks
Drinks play an important role in completing the experience. When it comes to pairing drinks with charcuterie boards, there are endless options. To help you make the best decision for your next gathering, here is a guide to choosing the best drink pairings for your charcuterie board.
For lighter fare such as cheese and crackers or prosciutto-wrapped melon slices, lighter-bodied white wines like Sauvignon Blancs or Pinot Grigio make perfect companions.
For heartier dishes like salami and cured meats, classic Italian red wines such as Chianti 🍷 offer robust flavors that complement these heavier dishes without overpowering them.
Step 7: Enjoy Your Set-Up with Some Music!
A charcuterie board is a great way to enjoy food with friends and family, but why not add music in the background for added ambiance? Music has the power to affect our mood and can make any get-together feel more special, and it’s quite often an overlooked option when hosting.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much would it cost to make your own charcuterie board?
Making your own charcuterie board doesn't have to break the bank. Prices for boards range from $10-$50 depending on size and what you include, though you will need some basic skills with tools as well as taking time to purchase materials and construct it yourself. With that said, making a great gift for anyone interested in culinary creations doesn't need to break your budget either! 💰
Does Costco make charcuterie?
The answer is both yes and no. While all Costcos carry many imported salamis, sausages, hams and other cured meats, they don't offer any pre-made charcuterie platters or boards. However, with their expansive selection of cured meats and cheeses, you can create your own charcuterie masterpiece right in your own home! All that's needed are some crackers or crostini to complete the look - just head on down to your local Costco for everything else!
What size charcuterie board do I need for 20 guests?
Organizing a charcuterie board for 20 guests can be intimidating. A good rule of thumb is to provide 1/4 - 1/3 pound of meat, 1/4 cup of cheese, and 2 ounces of accompaniments per guest - so for 20 people, you'll need 5-6 pounds of meat, 5 cups of cheese, and 40 ounces (2.5 quarts) or more of these items. When selecting the board itself, it's essential to consider both its layout and available space on your table or countertop; if possible, opt for larger cutting boards or serving platters measuring 18x24 inches or larger (24 inches or larger).
What wood should not be used for charcuterie boards?
Some woods such as pine and cedar should be avoided due to their strong odors which can affect the taste of food placed on them. Furthermore, some wood 🌲 like oak and maple contain resins which could leach into food, potentially leading to health issues if ingested. Moreover, some softwoods contain sap which reacts with acids in certain foods, creating an unpleasant flavor or texture. Additionally, oak and maple tend to crack when exposed to intense heat or moisture, making them unsuitable for cutting boards or serving platters. 🌳
Should a charcuterie board be oiled?
The answer is yes! Oiling your charcuterie board will help protect it from scratches and watermarks that can occur over time. It will also create a smooth finish that makes the board easier to clean and maintain. To properly oil your charcuterie board, use a food-safe mineral or coconut oil on both sides of the board before using it for the first time. You should then reapply oil every few months to keep the surface looking its best.
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