Way down Yonder on the Charcuterie Boards – or whatever Alan Jackson was singing about! Charcuterie boards, cheese boards, grazing table, fancy Lunchables, or even the “shark coochie” board, there’s no denying how popular this form of entertaining the hungry masses has gotten!
With lovely salami roses and luscious displays of cheese, crackers and nuts they are just as delightful to look at as they are to eat.
But, uh, what are they? The good folks over at eatcuredmeat.com (the finest in cured meat websites of course) tell us a little bit about the history:
“In the 15th Century, the French created charcuterie, which involved using offal and all aspects of the meat. The traditional process of using salt to cure meats dates back to the Roman empire nearly 2,000 years ago like for salumi such as prosciutto.”
So that tells us a little, but what do you mean “all aspects?”
“This is inclusive of the animal’s organs as well as its more traditional sources of meat like the hindquarters and underbelly. The development of this practice came from the desire to not let a single portion of the animal go to waste. Instead of using only the “good” portions of meat, butchers and cooks were able to practice the art that became known as charcuterie.”
Oh. I see. Well then.
History aside, don’t be intimated by these complex looking edible works of art, I’ve gathered some helpful TikTok videos to get you started in the right direction with your Charcuterie Boards.
Basic Charcuterie Boards 101
Where to begin? Well, with the basics of course! HEB has provided us with a Charcuterie Board 101 tik tok to get us prepared and inspired.
@heb #charcuterieboard 101 with @feedmi 🙌. #heb #charcuterie #charcuterieboardsoftiktok
♬ Lazy Sunday - Official Sound StudioProtein Roses
One of the hallmark touches to any impressive grazing board are the florals crafted with various sliced meats. While they may look impossible, by following these steps you will be whipping out salami and pepperoni roses in no time!
@thatcheeseplate HOW TO STYLE MEAT! A highly requested tutorial. #charcuterie #charcuterieboard
♬ Aesthetic Girl - YuseiCucumber Roses
The rose garden doesn’t stop with sliced meats! These refreshing cucumber roses add a lovely pop of green and a veggie balance.
The Grand Mozzarella Blossom
Delightful to the eye and adding to depth of flavor to any display is the Mozzarella Blossom. Add as many as you like and watch your cheesy garden grow.
@modern_brie The Mozzarella Rose #fyp #foryoupage #cheese #tips #tricks #charcuterieboard #cheeseboard #mozzarellarose #tutorial
♬ Aesthetic - XiloStar Cut Method
The more shapes and color one adds to their board, the more visually appealing it will be ( que the Instagram love!) The Star Cut method adds just that, using anything vaguely round in shape. Think hard boiled eggs, kiwi, oranges….
@theboardloon Elevate your Charcuterie and Brunch boards with this easy “Star” cutting technique. 🥝🍊🥚🍓 #charcuterie #brunch #brunchboard #diy #tutorial #fyp
♬ Counting Stars - Instrumental Music From TraxLabLetters and Numbers
To really personalize a charcuterie board, use large container forms of letters and numbers to spell out a name or indicate a birthday!
@deannatdunn #ad What are your favorite #CharcuterieBoard items using emojis?! 🧀🍇🥖 The Krazy Glue Max Bond Gel works creates a strong bond to work on so many surfaces! #ItTakesALittleKrazy #weddingdecor #diywedding #bridalshower #diydecor #charcuterie #cheeseboard #babyshower #holidayseason #dollartreecrafts #halloweenparty #grazingboard
♬ Bubble - Official Sound StudioBirthday Numbers
@letsstajhome DIY Charcuterie Board Numbers - we loved these for Dad’s birthday 🎉 #charcuterieboard #charcuteriebox #diybirthday #tipsandtricks #diyprojects
♬ Sunny Day - Ted FrescoVegan Options
If you are catering to the vegan crowd, if can seem like charcuterie may not be a viable option with all the meats and cheeses. But we’ve got you covered for vegan inspiration!
@zenandzaatar How to build a perfect #vegan charcuterie board every time! My friends love these 🥰 #todayilearned #plantbased #vegancharcuterieboard #vegancharcuterie #veganrecipe #vegansnackideas
♬ Choking on Flowers - Fox AcademyCutting that Cheese
Ah, cutting the cheese. We’ve all been accused of it and now it’s time to become an expert at it! The way your cheeses are cut and displayed on your board impact the overall topography of your display so cut out this tiktok on the best ways to cut the cheese!
@ugotmecheesin Elevate your charcuterie boards with these easy cutting tips! #charcuterie #charcuterieboard #cheeseboard #howto #foodtiktok #easyrecipe #cheese
♬ Beggin' - MåneskinMistake to Avoid!
This tiktoker explains the common mistakes folks make when assembling their grazing boards and how to avoid them:
@charquteofficial Some key components of charcuterie boards that people often forget! 👨🍳🧀 #charcuterie #charcuterieboardsoftiktok #charcuterieboard #cheeseboard
♬ original sound - CharquteDessert Boards
It’s not all meat, cheese and veggies if you please! Bring on the dessert options with these two chocolate inspired masterpieces, sure to get you invited back to the next pot luck!
@mindbodyverse S’mores Board Tutorial 🔥 #foryou #fyp #smoresdip #dessertboard #moresmores #charcuterieboard #learnontiktok
♬ Memories (Drinks Bring Back) - Ajay Stephens@charcutorrieboards calling all chocolate lovers 🗣 introducing my ultimate chocolate lovers dessert board! 🍫✨ #charcuterie #charcutorrie #charcuterieboardsoftiktok
♬ Dissolve - AbsofactoLast but not Least....
If time isn’t on your side and you still want to wow your guests your fancy skills, check out this shortcut our pals at Wendy’s put together for you. I’m sure no one will never know.
@wendys a highly requested tutorial from you guys #charcuterie #hack #fyp
♬ original sound - Wendy’s
More From Beasley Media…
11 of the Best Pet-Friendly Beaches in North Carolina and South Carolina
Caswell Beach, NC
This coastal gem welcomes well-behaved and leashed dogs year-round! It’s also one of the less crowded and more secluded beaches on our list so unleashed dogs under voice control may visit from dawn until 9:00 a.m., and from October 1 through April 30, unleashed but controlled dogs are welcome on the beach from 3:00 p.m. until dark. If you are visiting from a distance there are also ample pet friendly hotels and rentals nearly.
Corolla Beach, NC
Corolla, NC | Things to Do, Rentals, 4x4 Beaches | Visitor Information
Corolla (pronouced: "Kuh-RAH-Luh") is one of the most popular beach vacation destinations on North Carolina's Outer Banks. Its 24 miles of unspoiled shoreline is a unique treasure in these modern times, as are the distinct and charming communities dotting the area. Corolla is the kind of place where folks wave at each other, and the vibes are always good.
The Outer Banks boasts this pet friendly gem, where leashed animals are welcome year round. In addition to a lovely beach day there are many fantastic local dining options that offer outdoor seating that cater to people and pets.
Emerald Isle Beach, NC
Beach & Sound
Emerald Isle's oceanfront and soundside public accesses and parks offer a wealth of amenities. From picnic pavilions, boat and kayak launches, to volleyball courts and playgrounds, Emerald Isle has so many opportunities for your family to enjoy themselves! Paid parking is in effect from April 15 through September 15, 2022, at the Eastern and Western Ocean Regional accesses, from 8 a.m.
Not only does Emerald Isle Beach allow leashed pets year round, there is also the Emerald Isle Woods Park Trail. This 41-acre park includes walking and hiking trails, a floating dock and a pier on-site and ready for you and your dog to explore and enjoy.
Fort Macon State Park, NC
Fort Macon State Park
Fort Macon State Park has multiple personalities as the site of a perfectly restored Antebellum-era fort, a museum-quality coastal education center, and an unspoiled shoreline for swimming, surf fishing, and beachcombing. Nearly surrounded by water at the eastern tip of Bogue Banks, the park offers undisturbed natural beauty and opportunities to explore and learn about salt marshes, estuaries, and dune fields.
The 2015 winner of state park of the year and it’s easy to see why! With an unspoiled shoreline for swimming, fishing, and exploring with your pet, it’s a must see summer adventure. With loads of walking trails and beach access, it’s a great place to pack some puppy (and human) treats and enjoy a beach picnic.
Duck Town Park Boardwalk, NC
Dogs in Duck - Town of Duck, North Carolina
The following are a few things to remember while in Duck with your canine friends: Dogs are required to be vaccinated for rabies, collared with proper identification at all times, and controlled by a leash (10 feet or less) or restraint throughout Town including at the park, boardwalk, and Duck Trail.
Well mannered pups are welcome off leash to frolic on the beach, but must have proof of proper vaccinations. This area is so dog friendly, in fact, that several of the local bars and restaurants welcome them inside with their owners. Many pet friendly beach rentals also available, so stay awhile!
RiverPark at Cooleemee Falls "The Bullhole", NC
Veering slightly away from the beach but still in the realm of water adventures is RiverPark at Cooleemee Falls, known locally as The Bullhole.
The Bullhole is a dog-friendly recreation area in Woodleaf, NC. Leashed dogs are welcome to accompany you to the impressive stone dam, sandy beach and wooded trails. Swimming, picnic areas, public restrooms, and benches abound, making for a perfect day trip for you and your pet.Hatteras Island, NC
Hatteras Island | Watersports, Villages & Lighthouses
Hatteras Island is unlike anywhere else thanks in part to the Cape Hatteras National Seashore, the first of its kind.
With 70 miles of stunning shoreline, your pet is welcome year round as long as they are leashed. Be mindful of the local wildlife, interaction between pets and the local animals is prohibited.
Alder Lane Beach Access, SC
Alder Lane Beach Access
Beach visitors can make a quick stroll to the beach use the Adler Lane Beach Access, off of South Forest Beach Drive.
Moving into South Carolina, Alder Lane Beach Access allows pet access April 1st through September 30th before 10 a.m. and after 5 p.m, or anytime in the off season. They must be on a leash or under positive voice control at all times! Much more intimate than many of the other local beaches in the area, it’s become a favorite of beach going pet owners. Insider tip: bring quarters as the parking area is metered.
Isle of Palm Beaches, SC
Beach
Coast is Clean! The City of Isle of Palms boasts seven miles of wide, pristine beaches great for swimming, lounging, fishing, biking and kayaking. The City of Isle of Palms has been a destination for beach goers for generations. The City's Front Beach commercial district is located on Ocean Boulevard from 10th Avenue to 14th Avenue.
Beach going pet owners are raving about South Carolina’s Isle of Palm Beaches! Isle of Palm Beaches allow dogs from 5:00AM until 8:00AM April 1st through September 14th and 4:00PM until 10:00AM September 15th through March 31st, either leashed or under strict voice control. Big, clean and quiet, there is even a pet fountain provided near the misters so your furry pal doesn’t overheat during your adventure.
Fish Haul Beach Park, SC
Animals on the Beach
Animals on the Hilton Head Island Beach
Fish Haul Beach Park is Hilton Head Island’s only year round pet friendly beach. Shallow water (perfect for my water loving Shih Tzu and his short legs!), shell hunting, and an abundance of sea life this is one of South Carolina’s hidden gems as far as pet friendly beaches go.
Huntington Beach State Park, SC
Huntington Beach
Traffic Advisory: Due to increasing demand and limited parking, temporary park closures have become frequent on weekends and holidays from May through September. To avoid these closures, campers are encouraged to arrive on or after the 2 p.m. check-in time. Campers arriving prior to 2 p.m.
Only the south side of the beach is pet friendly, be mindful of that when trip planning. Pets must be leashed at all times and there is a $5 entrance fee. Beach goers claim it’s never terribly crowded, and there is a dog friendly campground nearby.