SEASONAL FLAVORS
Beyond the Board
MEAT AND CHEESE HAVE ALWAYS BEEN CORE TO CHARCUTERIE , BUT NOW THE OPTIONS FOR BEAUTIFUL BOARDS ARE LIMITLESS .
| BY ASHLEY RYAN AND DREW MAILLOUX |
Afeast for more than your taste buds , a well-balanced charcuterie board effectively combines food with art to create one aesthetically pleasing display . In recent years , charcuterie boards went well beyond the typical cheese and meat offering to explore new territory with breakfast foods , build-your-own tacos , ‘ jar ’ cuterie and more .
While charcuterie still makes for a pretty and popular entertaining option , it started more as a necessity than a luxury .
IN THE BEGINNING The concept of using salt to cure and preserve meat , by extracting the moisture , has ancient roots . Well before the invention of refrigeration , cool basements were used to store food .
However , it was the French who pioneered “ modern ” charcuterie in the 15th century , finding that preservation could help to ensure that no food was wasted . While European charcuterie still remains simple , boards in the United States have become increasingly unique .
A PERFECT COMBINATION Traditional boards contain an assortment of meats , cheeses and artisan bread often accompanied by olives , fruit and nuts .
“ Over time , chefs have had the opportunity to put their own touch on charcuterie and play with proteins ,” says Armando Gomez , executive sous chef for The Cloister at Sea Island . Gomez oversees Tavola , River Bar & Lounge plus inroom dining at the resort . “ For a balanced board , we use the ‘ rule of three ,’” Gomez states . “ Three cheeses , three meats , three breads and three treats .”
With no set menu , he aims for variation in both the texture and flavor of the meats . Some of his most popular selections are dry-aged salami , bresaola , pancetta and duck prosciutto plus fresh options like “ rillettes ” ( seasoned meat slow-cooked in fat ) or “ pâté en croute ” ( pâté in a pastry crust ), often found at River Bar .
For cheese , Gomez offers this tip to athome entertainers : “ Start your board with a soft cheese , a hard or semi-firm cheese and a ‘ unique ’ cheese . At Sea Island , we partner with local producers like Sweet Grass Dairy for singular offerings like Thomasville Tomme and Lil ’ Moo .”
Balance is key . In addition to seasonal fruit , Sea Island creates their own jams , compotes and pickled vegetables . These additions are important because they add a needed acidity to the platter , “ that helps cut through the rich cured meats ,” Gomez instructs .
The sky is the limit when it comes to charcuterie boards , and nothing proved that more than the new creative versions that have taken the internet by storm . You can now find a board for any occasion .
ENTERTAINING BOARDS Not only are these eye-catching arrangements showstoppers for at-home entertainers — they are also driving engagement online . From fondue to french fries , social media users are devouring creative takes on the 15th century classic .
Here are a few of our favorites and how to achieve them yourself :
Don ’ t Mind If I Fondue : Build your board with small bowls of melted cheese — fontina , Gruyère or gouda are all good options . Decorate the remaining space with a range of fruits and veggies , breads and meats . This is a great option for entertainers who want to get creative without too many limitations , because melted cheese pairs almost perfectly with anything . Impress your cheese-loving friends and family by garnishing your board with mini grilled cheese sandwiches .
Pickled Platters : As home-pickling gained popularity in kitchens across the country , it extended far past cucumbers . Build a pickled platter with pickled tomatoes , carrots , beets , string beans , jalapeños or okra . To balance your board , choose fattier meats and creamy , mild cheeses . Pickled foods wake up and cleanse the palate , so this is a great choice that can even work between courses .
Butter Board : Butter boards were big in 2022 , although their origin seemingly traces back to Chef Joshua McFadden ’ s 2017 cookbook , “ Six Seasons .” Butter boards are an easy execution for any entertainer . Start with a base of softened butter and then add your choice of various toppings such as garlic , herbs , lemon , chives , goat cheese , salt and honey . Serve with an assortment of breads and crackers for dipping .
Oh My , French Fry : For friends who are constantly engaged in the “ who has the best fries ” discussion , look no further . French fry boards are built by layering different types of fries ( and tots , if you ’ re adventurous ) with a variety of dipping sauces . Let friends choose between waffle , crinkle-cut and the classic golden arch fries . For sauces , start with sriracha mayo , guacamole-ranch dip and a homemade ketchup . Garnish with a flurry of cilantro and lime wedges , for brightness .
18 SEA ISLAND LIFE | SPRING / SUMMER 2023