Cut out for charcuterie

Portugalia has a variety of Portuguese cheeses and Wines as Well as Premade charcuterie boards

There’s nothing better than a cheese plate. Commonly known as a charcuterie board, these plates are usually crafted with cheese, meats, speciality crackers, and an assortment of other snack items. These culinary creations are not only delicious, but also beautifully plated. Examples could include a row of perfectly placed cheese slices, a variety of salty meats, fruit carefully cut into crafty shapes, fancy bowls of dipping jams, and other snack pieces. The options for sweet and salty plates are endless and the arrangements are the perfect centerpiece for a dinner table.

Charcuterie boards have been around since the 15th century, but have recently seen a spike in popularity. People are creating these boards as a fun activity to stay busy during their stay at home. Charcuterie boards have also risen in popularity on social media. Millions of users are searching for these creations, with several accounts being completely dedicated to sharing charcuterie content with their audiences. While influencers have found fame through their beautiful creations, it is possible to craft your own delectable board at home.

Local flavors

The South Coast is home to many premium food stores. One example, Portugalia, located at 489 Bedford Street in Fall River, takes pride in its imported cheeses, Portuguese wine, Portuguese meats, unique snacking products, and more. The owner, Michael Benevides, was thrilled to share his ideas for an at-home charcuterie board creation. He recommended pairing an aged Sao Jorge cheese with an imported Luis Pheo Touriga Nacional – Baga wine for a delectable duo. He also suggested visitors browse the large assortment of olives, almonds, caramelized pecans, and more. If you’re not ready to craft your own complex creation, Benevides also suggests browsing their selection of already-made charcuterie boards. The store is open 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sundays. Follow them on Facebook for more information.

It’s worth remembering that your board can also include healthy snacks. You could add a variety of fruits and vegetables to your board, arranging them in a colorful display. This is a great way to add volume and color to your design. Many people also cut their produce into fun shapes that give their charcuterie board an artistic look. The best way to get fresh produce is through local farmer’s markets. The New Bedford Farmers Market is being held on Saturdays throughout the winter, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the New Bedford Buttonwood Warming House. Stop by to pick up local produce, honey, eggs, and more. Check out their Facebook for more information.

Sauces and dips also make a great pairing for cheeses and crackers. Ripe from the Vine, located at 119 Wareham Road in Marion, is a new olive oil and vinegar store in the community. Selling over 75 varieties of imported oils and vinegars, they are sure to have the perfect flavor pairings for any items. Kelly Zucco, the owner of the store, recommended several tasty combinations. “Salt, fat, and acid light up our taste buds,” she said. Kelly mentioned the importance of balancing contrasting flavors in your charcuterie arrangement. Her favorite pairing at the moment is baked brie with either a Fig Dark Balsamic or one of the Wozz Kitchen Creation spreads available in store. All of her products are free of artificial flavoring and sweeteners. Visitors can visit the store for a tasting before deciding on their perfect combination. They are open 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. Be sure to check out their Facebook Page, Ripe from the Vine, for additional information.

While it can be a fun activity to beautifully craft these boards, your creation does not need to be perfect! At the end of the day, you will have a delicious plate of local cuisine that is sure to delight any audience.

Kennedy Ryan is a Massachusetts resident and lifelong storyteller, contributing to local universities, small businesses, and online publications.

Ripe From the Vine carries Wozz Spreads in addition to over 75 varieties of imported oils and vinegars