When catering for a formal or even informal event, there is no doubt that cheese platters are the perfect way to keep your guests happy. It’s no wonder cheese hampers are such popular gifts for all occasions. If you are not sure exactly what you need to include when preparing a cheese platter, here is a list.
Several cheeses
We don’t all have the same preferences when it comes to cheese. Some prefer hard cheeses, other enjoy softer cheeses. Some cheeses have stronger flavours and others are on the mild end of the scale. Make sure that you include at least one type of cheese that is easy to recognise, like cheddar. If you serve any strong cheeses, like blue cheese, you should keep it separate from the rest or else the aroma can affect the flavours of the other cheeses.
Breads
You should also include a variety of crackers and breads for your guests to enjoy along with the cheeses. They should not have any strong flavours because it can interfere with the flavours of the cheeses. Plain salted bread sticks, baguettes, and crackers are ideal.
Preserves
It might surprise some people, but cheese pairs very well with certain sweet treats. Strawberry jam and honey, for example, taste delicious with cheddar cheese. Set aside some jars on the table with spoons and encourage guests to experiment with various flavour combinations.
Fruit
Like preserves, fruit can also add that sweet element. Apples, grapes, pears, and various other types of fruit are excellent. Citrus fruits have a stronger flavour which means that they can overpower the flavour of your favourite cheese. Fruits with milder flavours are, therefore, ideal.
Meats
Cured meats and smoked meats are excellent for any cheese platter. Remember to always add in moderation. You don’t want to turn your cheese platter into a cold meat plate.
Remember to prepare your platter and allow your cheese to sit at room temperature for a couple of hours before serving. Keep extra in the fridge for refilling. Again, before you top up your platter, you should always allow your cheese to warm up slightly. This allows the flavours to really come through. Finally, don’t forget about choosing the appropriate wines to pair with the various cheeses too.