How to build the perfect cheese board for any occasion
When it comes to hosting a gathering or simply indulging in a cozy evening, a well-crafted cheese board is a culinary centerpiece that never fails to impress. The art of assembling a perfect cheese board lies in carefully selecting a variety of cheeses, pairing them with complementary accompaniments, and presenting them with flair. In this guide, we'll explore the key elements to consider when building a cheese board that will leave your guests in awe. So, let's embark on a delicious journey and discover the secrets to creating a cheese board that is both a feast for the eyes and a treat for the taste buds.
1. First, the Board.
cheese board itself plays a crucial role in the overall presentation and aesthetic appeal of your cheese board. The board serves as the canvas for arranging and showcasing the cheeses and accompaniments. A beautifully designed board instantly elevates the presentation and creates a sense of sophistication and attention to detail. Browse through our beautiful Maison Morand boards here!2. Start with a variety of cheeses.
When it comes to building a cheese board, variety is key. Aim for a mix of different textures, flavors, and types of cheese. Consider including:- a soft cheese, like Brie de Meaux, Triple Crème or Camembert de Normandie;
- a semi-soft cheese, like Old Gouda, Tomme de Chèvre or Tomme de Savoie;
- a hard cheese, like Comté, Ossau-Iraty or Manchego;
- a blue cheese, like Roquefort, Fourme d'Ambert or Blue Stilton; and
- a truffle cheese, like Truffle Brie de Meaux, Brillat-Savarin with truffle, or Moliterno Al Tartufo.
3. Get the quantities right.
For your cheese board served before or after the main meal, we would recommend allowing each person about 80g of cheese. So for six people for example, around 750g of cheese in total is a good amount. If you are thinking about serving a cheese board as a main meal, opt for slightly more cheese per person, around 200g.3. Add some accompaniments.
A cheese board is not complete without some accompaniments to enhance the flavors of the cheese and add a delightful contrast. Here are some suggestions:Crackers and Bread
: Offer an assortment of artisanal crackers, crispy baguette slices, or freshly baked bread. These vehicles provide a delightful crunch and a perfect base for cheese and toppings.Meats
: Cured meats, such as Prosciutto, Salami, or Bresaola add a savory and robust component to a cheese board. They contribute a savory and salty flavor profile that pairs beautifully with the creaminess of cheeses. The saltiness of the meats enhances the flavors of the cheese, creating a delightful combination of tastes on the palate.Jams, Preserves and Pickles
: Include a selection of sweet and tangy preserves such as fig jam, apricot chutney, or balsamic reduction. Pickles, olives, or marinated vegetables add a zesty touch, complementing the cheese flavors.Fresh fruits
: Fresh fruits bring a burst of vibrant colors, refreshing flavors, and a touch of natural sweetness to the cheese board. They provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy and savory nature of the cheeses and create a harmonious balance of flavors. In addition, the natural juiciness of fruits acts as a palate cleanser between different cheese varieties, ensuring that each flavor is savored individually.Dried fruits
: Dried fruits like apricots, figs, or cranberries have a rich, concentrated flavor that adds depth and complexity to the cheese board. The chewy texture of dried fruits provides a pleasant contrast to the creamy and smooth cheeses. It adds a satisfying bite and a unique mouthfeel.- Nuts
: Nuts bring a delightful crunch, earthy flavors, and a hint of richness to the cheese board. Nuts like walnuts, almonds, or pistachios provide a satisfying crunch that adds a textural contrast to the creamy cheeses. They offer a delightful bite and a satisfying mouthfeel.
4. Consider the presentation.
Presentation is key when it comes to a cheese board. Arrange the cheeses in a way that is visually appealing. Consider different shapes and colors of cheese, and arrange them in a way that makes sense for your guests. This can be done on a wooden board or slate, but other platters or plates can be used as well.5. Serve at the right temperature.
To fully appreciate the flavors and textures, ensure that your cheeses are served at the appropriate temperature. Soft cheeses like Brie should be served at room temperature, while hard cheeses like Comté or Gouda can be slightly chilled. Take the cheese out of the refrigerator at least 30-45 minutes before serving, so that they can come to the right temperature.6. Be creative.
Don't be afraid to get creative with your cheese board. Consider adding some unusual cheeses, like goat cheese or smoked cheddar. Experiment with different accompaniments to find the perfect pairing for your cheeses. Consider local and seasonal ingredients to add a touch of authenticity and regional flair. Let your creativity shine through, and your cheese board will become a reflection of your own taste and style.In conclusion, a cheese board is a perfect addition to any occasion, whether it's a casual gathering or a formal dinner party. With a variety of cheeses, accompaniments, and careful presentation, you can create a cheese board that is sure to impress your guests. So go ahead, get creative, and build the perfect cheese board for your next occasion!
If you find yourself short on time and unable to prepare a cheese board from scratch or simply prefer the convenience of a pre-made cheese board, fear not! We have everything you need to impress your guests, whether you're looking for a vegetarian platter or a charcuterie (halal) pairing. With our high-quality artisan cheeses, perfectly paired accompaniments, and beautiful packaging, you can sit back, relax, and enjoy your next gathering without the stress of preparing a cheese board from scratch. It's that easy! For all Maison Morand Cheese Boards, follow this link!
