Perfect Bread & Cheese Platter

Creating the perfect bread and cheese platter is an art that combines various textures and flavours to delight the senses. Here’s a detailed guide to help you curate a balanced and visually appealing cheese board for your summer gatherings:

Bread Selection

Bread is a crucial element of any cheese board, serving as the vehicle for the cheese and other accompaniments. A seeded sourdough bread is an excellent choice because its nuttiness contrasts beautifully with the creaminess of many cheeses. However, variety is the spice of life, so consider including a mix of different types of bread. A crusty baguette provides a crunchy texture, while a ciabatta offers a softer alternative.

Crackers

In addition to bread, crackers add a delightful crunch and an extra layer of texture to your cheese board. Our sourdough rye crackers are a fantastic option, offering a unique flavour profile that pairs well with both soft and hard cheeses. Their tangy, slightly nutty taste enhances the overall experience and complements the other elements on the board.

Cheese Choices

When selecting cheeses, aim for a balance between soft and hard varieties to offer a range of textures and tastes. A creamy goat cheese or a rich brie provides a luscious, smooth option that pairs well with both sweet and savoury accompaniments. For a hard cheese, a cheddar or an aged gouda brings a robust flavour and a firm texture that contrasts nicely with the softer cheeses. You might also consider adding a stronger cheese, such as a blue cheese or a smoked cheese, to add an element of surprise and intrigue.

Chutney and Spreads

Adding chutney and spreads to your cheese board enhances the flavour experience. A fig or spiced plum chutney introduces a sweet and tangy component that complements the richness of the cheeses. A sweet onion marmalade could also be a good option. Spreads like artichoke dip, olive tapenade or sundried tomato spread provide a savoury, umami flavour that pairs well with both soft and hard cheeses. These spreads not only add flavour but also bring a different texture to the board, making each bite interesting.

Antipasto and Other Accompaniments

An antipasto misto, made up of a variety of cured meats can add substance and flavour to your platter. You could also include some nuts and olives, as the saltiness provides a delightful contrast to the creamy cheeses and sweet chutneys. Including these items ensures that there’s something for everyone and keeps the palate excited.

Fresh Fruit

Fruit is essential for adding colour, sweetness, and a refreshing element to your cheese board. Figs and grapes are classic choices that pair well with most cheeses. Berries, such as strawberries or raspberries, can also be a great addition, offering a burst of sweetness and a bright pop of colour. The natural sugars in the fruit complement the savoury and tangy flavours of the cheese, creating a harmonious balance.

Garnishes and Final Touches

Garnishes like fresh herbs can elevate the presentation of your cheese board. Basil, mint, or rosemary sprigs add a fresh, aromatic touch that enhances the visual appeal and provides a subtle hint of flavour. Placing herbs strategically around the board can also help to separate different sections and create a more organised, aesthetically pleasing layout.

Beverage Pairings

No cheese board is complete without a refreshing beverage to accompany it. A chilled glass of rosé is an ideal choice for summer, offering a light, fruity complement to the cheeses and accompaniments. For those who prefer non-alcoholic options, a drink like Botivo, with its botanical flavours, pairs wonderfully with the variety of tastes on the board.

Assembling Your Platter

When assembling your cheese board, start by arranging the bread and crackers around the edges. Place the cheeses in different sections of the board, cutting a few slices or wedges to make it easy for guests to serve themselves. Next, add small bowls or jars of chutney and spreads near the cheeses for convenience. Scatter the antipasto mix and nuts around the board, filling in gaps. Arrange the fruit in clusters to add colour and visual interest. Finally, add the fresh herbs as garnishes to complete the look.

Tips for a Perfect Cheese Board

• Balance: Aim for a mix of textures and flavours—creamy and crunchy, sweet and savoury—to keep each bite interesting.
• Presentation: Use a large wooden board or a slate slab for a rustic, appealing look. Arrange items thoughtfully to create a beautiful display.
• Experiment: Don’t be afraid to try new cheese varieties or seasonal fruits to keep the board fresh and exciting.

Enjoy crafting and sharing your perfect summer bread and cheese platter with friends and family, creating delightful memories along the way!