Charcuterie is the time-honored art of preparing and assembling cured or smoked meats and cheeses served on boards or platters. There are many ways to prepare and serve charcuterie, depending upon individual tastes and dietary requirements.
While bearing an exotic-sounding name, charcuterie is one of the more popular items routinely prepared by local boutique catering company, the Go Go Gourmet.
“Many cookbooks offer basic charcuterie recipe suggestions,” says Celeste Davidson, owner of the Go Go Gourmet. “There are no hard rules to follow when preparing charcuterie. Many people include additional items, such as beef or pork tenderloins, bacon-wrapped dates, dried fruits, nuts and vegetables.”
Along with the basic charcuterie ingredients, chefs usually include a tray of crackers and breadsticks to supplement the charcuterie.
“Adding crackers and different types of bread supplements the charcuterie boards,” says Celeste. “It is similar to serving assorted crackers with cheese platters.”
Charcuterie is a festive dish that goes well with holidays and celebrations, both small and large.
“At Go Go Gourmet, we are able to prepare charcuterie for groups of any size,” says Celeste. “Whether you are having a small, intimate gathering or putting on a large party, we can help you set the mood with your own customized board.”
Dried Fruits & Nuts–Figs, Apricots & almonds
Spicy Pickled Green Beans
Assorted Veggie Crudite, Cucumbers, Sweet Peppers
Cured Meats–Spicy Salami / Cappicola / Pepperoni
Boiled Eggs
Assorted Artisan Cheeses–Cheddar, Gouda, Pepper Jack, Blue Cheese, Cranberry Goat Cheese
Assorted Olives–Feta Stuffed Green Olives, Kalamata Olives
Assorted Crackers