The Complete Guide To Getting A Wooden Charcuterie Board

The art of creating beautiful and delicious charcuterie boards has been around for centuries. Of course, thanks to apps such as Pinterest and Instagram, this age-old tradition has been given new life in recent years. Whether you’re planning an intimate gathering or a large dinner party, a charcuterie board (or cheese board) is always a hit.

But what exactly is a charcuterie board? And how do you go about creating one? This comprehensive guide will teach you everything you need to know about wooden charcuterie boards, from how to use them to how to clean them.

A brief history of charcuterie

Charcuterie [shaa·koo·tuh·ree] is the French word for cured meats. Some examples of cured meat include:

Ham
Salami
Bacon
Sausage
Prosciutto and more

Curing meat originates from ancient times when people needed to find ways to preserve food for long periods. Curing meat involves using salt, smoke, or other chemicals to prevent bacteria’s growth and improve its flavor. In the past, charcuterie was mostly limited to pork products, but nowadays, you can find charcuterie made from all types of meat, including beef, chicken, and lamb.

A charcuterie board is a collection of cured meats, cheeses (soft cheese, hard cheese, blue cheese, goat cheese, etc.), dried fruit, vegetables, crackers, nuts, and other snacks that are arranged on a plate or board. It is essentially a serving tray. Charcuterie boards can be as simple or as elaborate as you want them to be. The key is to include a variety of colors, textures, and flavors so that there’s something for everyone.

Now that we’ve answered the question, What is a charcuterie board? Let’s move on to how to select the right board for you.

Choosing the right board

The first step in creating the perfect charcuterie board is to choose the right board. There are many different types of boards, so it’s important to select one that best suits your needs.

Here are some things to consider when choosing a serving board:

Size: How large of a board do you need? Charcuterie boards can range in size from small, personal boards to large, family-style boards.
Shape: Charcuterie boards come in all different shapes and sizes. The most popular shape is rectangular, but you can also find rounds, ovals, and even heart-shaped boards.
Material: Charcuterie boards can be made from a variety of materials, including wood, marble, glass, and metal. Wooden boards are the most popular type because they’re durable and easy to clean. Plus, they look great on any table or countertop.
Design: There are many different designs to choose from for charcuterie boards. If you want a simple and elegant board, look for one with clean lines and a minimalistic design. If you’re looking for something fun and unique, there are plenty of options with colorful patterns and interesting shapes (such as live edge boards!).

Why go with a wooden board?

Boards made from natural wood are ideal for charcuterie because they’re strong and durable. Wood is also a natural material that’s easy to clean and care for. Plus, it looks great on any table or countertop.

Does it matter what type of wood the board is made from?

Yes, indeed it does. Different types of wood have different grain patterns, colors, and density levels. Various wood species have other inherent properties, such as resistance to heat, scratches, and water.

So, what are the best types of wood for charcuterie boards? Let’s take a look at some of our favorites.

Teak board

Teak is an exceptionally strong and durable hardwood often used in outdoor furniture. It has a high oil content, making it resistant to water and moisture. Teak is also a very dense wood, so it’s less likely to warp or crack over time.

It is a non-porous wood, meaning it won’t absorb bacteria or other food particles. This makes it a great option for those looking for a board that’s easy to clean and disinfect.

Acacia board

Compared to teak, acacia is a semi-hardwood, meaning it’s not as dense or durable. However, it’s still a very strong and sturdy wood that will last for years with proper care.

Acacia wood is beautiful, with a unique grain pattern. It ranges in color from light brown to dark reddish-brown, and it has a naturally lustrous sheen.

Walnut board

Walnut is an incredibly popular hardwood used in a variety of furniture and cabinetry. It’s a dense wood with a medium to the coarse grain pattern. Walnut is known for its rich, dark color – especially black walnut – ranging from chocolate brown to almost black.

Wood boards are a popular choice for charcuterie boards because they’re strong, durable, and easy to clean. In fact, they’re so strong they can be used for butcher blocks, cutting boards, and similar purposes.

The main downside of a walnut cutting board is that it is quite expensive. If you’re on a budget, then another type of wood may be a better option for you.

Hard maple board

Hard maple is a hardwood that ranges in color from creamy white to light brown. It has a smooth, straight wood grain pattern with few knots.

Hard maple is a very dense and durable wood, making it a great option for those who are looking for a board that will last for years.

Cherry board

Cherry is a hardwood that’s known for its beautiful reddish-brown finish. Over time, cherry wood will darken and develop a rich patina.

American cherry is a strong and sturdy wood, though it is not water-resistant like other woods on this list. It needs to be properly sealed and maintained to prevent warping and cracking.

Bamboo board

Even though technically bamboo is not a wood species, it’s often used in place of wood for a variety of purposes, including cheese plates and cutting boards.

Bamboo is a very strong and durable material that’s also eco-friendly. It’s a popular choice for those looking for an alternative to traditional wooden boards.

Aside from being beautiful and lightweight, bamboo cheese boards are also budget-friendly.

How to care for your wooden charcuterie board

Once you’ve chosen the perfect wooden board for your charcuterie spread, it’s important to know how to care for it. Properly caring for your board will extend its lifespan and keep it looking new.

Here is a step by step process on how to clean a wooden charcuterie board:

Remove all food particles from the board’s surface using a damp paper towel or cloth.
Wash the board with warm water and mild dish soap. If any bits are stuck on, use a stiff brush to scrub them off.
Rinse the board with clean water.
Allow the board to air dry completely.

Remove persistent stains

Use a combination of half a lemon and baking soda to remove persistent stains.

Sprinkle the baking soda on the stain and then rub the lemon over it.

Allow the mixture to sit for 5-10 minutes, then scrub it off with a damp cloth.

Rinse the board with clean water and allow it to air dry completely.

Sanitize your board

Washing your board after every use is important, but you should also sanitize it regularly to kill any bacteria that might be lurking.

To sanitize your board, you can use either white vinegar or hydrogen peroxide.

White vinegar should be used straight. Pour it into a spray bottle and spritz the surface of the board. Then, use a clean cloth to wipe it down.

Alternatively, you can use 3% hydrogen peroxide as a disinfectant. Simply pour it onto the board, let it sit for a few minutes, then rinse it off with clean water.

Once you’ve sanitized the board, be sure to air dry it completely before using it again.

Oil the board

Should you oil your charcuterie board?

The answer to this question is yes and no.

If you’re going to be using the board often, it’s a good idea to oil it on a regular basis. This will help keep the wood hydrated and prevent it from drying out and cracking.

To oil your board, simply rub a food-safe mineral oil or a cutting board oil into the surface using a clean cloth. Allow the oil to soak in for at least 30 minutes, then wipe off any excess.

If you don’t plan on using the board often, then you don’t need to oil it. Just be sure to store it in a cool, dry place.

If you have any qualms about using oil on your board, you can consult with the manufacturer to see if they have any recommendations.

Conclusion

A charcuterie board is a must-have for anyone who loves to entertain. But before you can start arranging your meats, cheeses, and other snacks, you need to choose the right board.

Wooden boards are a popular choice for charcuteries because they’re durable and look great. With so many different types of wood to choose from, it can be hard to decide which one is right for you.

The best wood for a cheese platter is one that’s durable, easy to clean, and won’t absorb flavors from the food. Some of the most popular choices include teak, bamboo, and acacia.

Once you’ve selected the perfect board, be sure to take care of it properly. Wash it after each use and sanitize it on a regular basis. If you’re going to be using the board frequently, you should also oil it to keep the wood hydrated.

By following these simple tips, you can ensure that your charcuterie board will last for years to come.

Interested in owning a breathtaking live-edge charcuterie board? Contact us at Bali Teak Collective. We offer a wide range of live edge charcuterie boards made from beautiful, sustainable teak wood. Our boards are the perfect addition to any home and make entertaining a breeze. Visit our website today to learn more!