Long ago before refrigerators were a common household appliance, the ancient art of charcuterie (shahr-cute-uh-ree) was a way to preserve meats. Today, this old-world process is used not practically, but to enjoy the flavors derived from the process of preservation. The word itself is French and refers to smoked, cured, and cooked meats. These meats can range from grade school lunch classics like bologna to more intimidating forcemeats like pâté, terrine, and ballotine.
Charcuterie boards are great way to try new and experience new flavors. They often don’t just feature various meats, but cheeses, fruits, and other preserves. They’re a great conversation piece and Louisville menus certainly aren’t lacking. Here are five boards you should try right now!
Wiltshire on Market
You’ll never be bored with this board. Chef Noble Holden changes things up weekly along with the rest of the menu to reflect the seasonal Kentucky bounty. Locally sourced and fresh, “I try to create a balance,” says Holden, “Usually, it's three items, one Prosciutto style item, one hard salami, and one "wild card". This can be a pâté, coppa, bresaola, liver mousse, or terrine. It's fun to play with accoutrements that pair well with salty & savory cured meats, seasonal fruit preserves, nice honey from Sping Valley Farms, Marcona almonds, and fresh pickled vegetables.”
Ghyslain
Holy Grale
Butchertown Grocery
Have the late night munchies and a taste for the finer things in life? Then Butchertown Grocery is your answer or rather answers. They have not one, but five different charcuterie boards (Butchertown, Seasonal, Spicy, European, and Game Changer). So, based on how hard in the paint your willing to go you can choose from a simple, seasonal boucheron cheese, fruit, nuts and local honey board to “everything from our cheese and charcuterie kitchen,” also known as the “Game Changer.” The real game changer would be to order all five. I think then it’s technically a charcuterie table.
Rye
If you’re new to the charcuterie scene this is a good place to start. Straightforward and pork driven this board includes Broadbent Country Ham, rillette croquette, finocchiona, and pork terrine.
Cover Image: Ghyslain
