Charcuterie Board Trends: What's Hot and What's Not in 2021
Charcuterie boards have taken social media by storm in recent years. These beautifully arranged platters filled with an array of cured meats, cheeses, crackers, and fruits not only serve as a culinary masterpiece but also provide a unique and interactive way of entertaining guests. As the world evolves, so do the trends surrounding charcuterie boards. In this article, we will discuss what's hot and what's not in 2021.
Hot Trends
Mini Charcuterie Boards
Small charcuterie boards have gained popularity as they offer a personalized experience to each guest. These mini boards are perfect for intimate gatherings or solo indulgence. The charm of the mini boards lies in their presentation, with meats, cheeses, and accouterments arranged just as beautifully as a traditional-sized board.
Plant-Based Charcuterie Boards
Plant-based charcuterie boards have become increasingly popular as more people opt for vegetarian and vegan lifestyles. These innovative boards feature plant-based meat alternatives, such as seitan or tempeh, alongside an array of fruits, vegetables, and dips.
Themed Charcuterie Boards
Theme-based charcuterie boards have taken over as a fun and creative way to host parties, ranging from a tropical-themed board with a variety of exotic fruits and cheeses to a Halloween-themed board with deliciously eerie-looking snacks. These boards are a great way to showcase your creativity and impress your guests with your unique flair.
Not So Hot Trends
Uncurated Charcuterie Boards
The whole point of a charcuterie board is in its curation. Randomly throwing a bunch of snacks onto a board and calling it a "charcuterie board" is no longer acceptable. A well-crafted board with a variety of flavors, textures, and colors is what makes it truly special.
Limited Meat Options
Charcuterie boards are centered around cured meats, so having only a few meat options limits the potential of the board. It's important to have a variety of meats, such as salami, prosciutto, and pepperoni, to allow guests to experience different flavors and textures.
Artificial Ingredients
With the recent emphasis on natural and unprocessed food options, artificial ingredients in charcuterie boards are a thing of the past. Artificially dyed cheeses and meats, high-fructose corn syrup crackers, and preservative-filled dips should be avoided in favor of more natural alternatives.
In conclusion, charcuterie boards have evolved over the years to incorporate unique twists and themed options to keep things exciting. The mini-charcuterie boards, plant-based options, and themed boards are some of the hottest trends for 2021. However, it's important not to forget the basics of a well-curated board that includes a variety of meat options and natural ingredients. By keeping these trends in mind, you are sure to impress your guests and create an unforgettable culinary experience.
