The Extension Education Association (EEA) of Austin County recently hosted a fun and successful charcuterie program, bringing members together to learn how to create beautiful and tasty charcuterie boards. Emmy Kokemor, a 4-H member, planned all the delicious items that would go on the boards and helped everyone as they put their own boards together. She guided the group through this trendy topic, showing them how to choose and arrange the perfect mix of meats, cheeses, fruits, and other tasty treats. The hands-on session also covered tips on flavor pairing, presentation, and food safety. By the end of the event, everyone left excited and ready to create their own stunning boards at home!
The the word “charcuterie” is French. It comes from the French terms “chair” meaning flesh and “cuit” meaning cooked. People often have trouble saying the name charcuterie so here is an easy phonetic breakdown.
– shahr-KOO-tuh-ree
• shahr (like “shar” in shark)
• KOO (like coo in cool)
• tuh (like the tuh in today)
• ree (like ree in reel)
For those not familiar with charcuterie boards, they are a trending centerpiece at gatherings that offer a visually appealing and flavorful mix of meats, cheeses, and accompaniments. While they seem like a modern trend, the history of charcuterie dates back to 15th-century France, where shops specialized in cured pork products like sausages and pâtés. Over time, this evolved into the diverse spread we know today. Although charcuterie has been enjoyed for centuries, its popularity surged in the U.S. in the 2010s, especially around 2020, when social media fueled the trend. Their versatility and aesthetic appeal made them perfect for everything from casual get-togethers to formal events.
A well-crafted board balances flavors, textures, and colors, typically featuring cured meats like salami, prosciutto, and chorizo, and cheeses such as brie, cheddar, and blue varieties. Fresh and dried fruits, crackers, nuts, and spreads like honey and fig jam add sweetness and flavor depth. Arranging items with varying heights, shapes, and fresh herbs can enhance the visual appeal, while balancing savory, sweet, crunchy, and creamy elements ensures a dynamic tasting experience.
