Charcuterie has become a beloved culinary trend, with its timeless appeal and remarkable versatility capturing the hearts and palates of food enthusiasts everywhere. As restaurants continually strive to stay on top of the latest food trends, incorporating meat and cheese into your menus can provide a unique and enticing dining experience. Here are new trends to help businesses improve their products and meet customer expectations.
Charcuterie Trends
1. Stick with a Theme:
Incorporating thematic decorations and colors adds a vibrant touch to charcuterie boards. Drawing inspiration from seasons, holidays, or specific cuisines can take your presentation to the next level.
For example, on Valentine’s Day, consider creating heart-shaped crackers, skewers, macarons, and chocolate items. This attention to detail enhances the overall dining experience and adds an unexpected and delightful element.
You can try something different. For example, you can have a platter of cured meats or try something unexpected, like a Charcuterie Fry Board.
Another option is a Pretzel charcuterie in a pizza box. Both options are perfect for takeout.
2. Big Flavor, Small Package:
Smaller gatherings or personal portions are increasingly popular, especially in the current dining landscape. Offering mini or individual charcuterie boards allows customization for specific dietary preferences and is perfect for intimate gatherings.
Consider using glass jars for “jarcuterie,” disposable charcuterie paper cones, or ready-made Mini Charcuterie Snack Packs. These options not only cater to individual preferences but also enhance the visual appeal of the presentation. Click here to see Sysco Chef Rachanee Teipen’s spin on Charcuterie Cones.
3. Plant-Based Options:
As more people embrace veganism or seek plant-based alternatives, it’s crucial for restaurants to cater to this growing demand. Offering plant-based meats and cheeses as substitutes is a fantastic way to make charcuterie inclusive for vegan diners. Additionally, ensure that your boards include plenty of other meatless options to accommodate customers with various dietary preferences. By providing a diverse range of choices, you can cater to everyone, regardless of their diet.
4. Sustainable Serving Ware:
With increased emphasis on sustainability and eco-consciousness, patrons appreciate restaurants that prioritize the environment. Consider incorporating eco-friendly serving ware, such as bamboo or wooden platters, glass jars, or other sustainable materials, into your charcuterie presentations. By aligning your offerings with sustainable practices, you not only reduce waste but also demonstrate your commitment to responsible dining. Sysco has a complete line of planet-friendly and sustainable, disposable solutions under the Earth Plus brand.
5. DIY/Take-Home Kits:
Tap into the growing popularity of interactive dining experiences by offering DIY charcuterie kits or take-home options. These kits allow customers to assemble their own boards at home, providing a fun and engaging experience. European Imports offers a great selection of pre-packaged kits like our Busseto Charcuterie Kit or Divina Snacks and Starters Platter. They come with a presentation guide that can simplify the process for both operators and customers, while adding a unique touch to their dining experience.
As the popularity of charcuterie continues to soar, keeping up with the latest trends can help operators stand out in an increasingly competitive market. By incorporating thematic elements, offering customization for smaller portions, including plant-based options, implementing sustainable serving ware, and providing DIY/take-home kits, you can elevate your charcuterie offerings and satisfy the cravings of customers. Embrace the art of charcuterie and create an unforgettable dining experience that celebrates this timeless classic.
