The Art of the Charcuterie
The charcuterie craze feels like it just took off a few years ago, but the art of the charcuterie has existed for hundreds of years dating back to the Greeks and Romans when they cured meats for long trips. However, it was in France when this ‘graze craze’ really took hold dating back to the 15th century and the combination of cured meats*, specialty cheeses*, nuts and fruits* has stood the test of time and is still shared at gatherings today.
Our culture has taken this ancient art, and the definition of charcuterie, and have given it a modern spin with endless possibilities. The term charcuterie no longer just refers to cured meats at the center of a nibble platter (although it may to some), but now entertains the notion of foods brought together for people to gather around and nosh over good conversation.
The Breakfast Charcuterie
The breakfast charcuterie can be simply done with baked goods*, fresh fruits*, jams* and yogurts*. And yet, it can be taken to many various levels with pancakes, cooked meats*, waffles*, syrups*, honey* and other specialty items like skewed fruit, dips and other specialty foods.
The Dinner Charcuterie
The dinner charcuterie can pretty much embody any cooked meat with vegetables, sides and fixings. I personally love some of the burger charcuteries with cooked burgers in the center surrounded by all of the toppings, fresh vegetables and salads to choose from all in one wonderful display.
The Dessert Charcuterie
Who doesn’t love a dessert charcuterie? Again, a platter to be easily themed! One of my personal favorites would be mini cakes at the center surrounded by various toppings; fruits, syrups, chopped candies, flavored whipped creams all so that each guest can create their own variation of flavor to enjoy.
Whatever your flare on the charcuterie happens to be, at the end of the day, it’s really about a memorable gathering of people enjoying fine foods together. And cured meats can be added to each of them if you’re holding on to the traditional definition of a charcuterie board (wink)
*Many items can be located at the Saratoga Farmers’ Market to create your charcuterie work of art.
The Saratoga Farmer’s Market is open on Wednesdays from 3- 6 p.m. and Saturdays from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. at High Rock Park in downtown Saratoga Springs. The Monday market at Clifton Park is open from 2-5 p.m. at the Shenendehowa Methodist Church on Route 146. The Thursday Market at Milton begins Thursday, July 11 through August 29 at the Burgess Kimball Memorial Park from 3-6 p.m. Find us online at www.saratogafarmersmarket.org, where you can sign up for our weekly newsletter, and follow us on Facebook and Instagram @SaratogaFarmersMarket.
