The history of charcuterie.
It’s amazing to see just how much the beloved charcuterie board has taken off in recent times, and the grazing boards have grown to amazing sizes, sometimes taking up entire countertops.
I first was introduced to charcuterie in a much more simple manner, while out having some wine over dinner and of course at a winery soon after that. To me, it has grown into a beautiful art display of tantalizing flavours and fun. It’s hard to come by someone that doesn’t love charcuterie, as it can be so easily customized.
See my take on the family-style sandwich charcuterie board.
Have you ever wondered, though, where charcuterie came from?
History of Charcuterie
Charcuterie has actually been around for hundreds of years. The word itself comes from the French words for flesh (chair) and cooked (cuit) which was used to describe shops in 15th century France that wouldn’t waste any part of the pig or animal used for the cured meats.
The practice of actually curing, salting and smoking meats, though, dates back 6,000 years to ancient Rome.
It’s fair to say, that this love for meats and eating cured foods came from both the French and Romans… like many wonderful things, we can thank Europe.
I love learning about the origin of foods, it’s important to know and respect and thank those that created the amazing flavours we enjoy today.
See also:
- The Origin of Food: Why Everyone Should Watch Ugly Delicious
- The Turmeric Latte Is Not A New Thing: Haldi Doodh
Regardless, of how and when you enjoy it, I personally have to have my charcuterie with some vino (as encouraged by our European trendsetters).
Cheers!
