Pronounced “shar-coo-ter-ee”, it is a beautifully created wooden board of appetizers that includes cheeses, cured meats, nuts, olives, sweets, the possibilities are endless. Any combination would be correct, but presentation is key. It has become the new art form. Color, texture and variety are important. Try your hand at creating your own charcuterie board or learn from an expert.
Geo’s Cheese Shop at 221 East Gregory Blvd. in the Waldo/Brookside area is presenting a special virtual Valentine Date Night on February 10th at 7 pm from the beautiful Oak Street Mansion. Claire Cason, also known as Claire the Charcutier, will demonstrate the art of the charcuterie while Sam from Veritas Wine Selections will teach wine pairing and tasting techniques. A prepackaged kit with everything you need for this event–two bottles of wine, food and board serving 2 to 4 people and Zoom code-can be picked up at Geo’s Cheese Shop.
Cason loves creating charcuterie boards for people and special events. “Charcuterie is a conversation starter, a place to gather around and a way to make memories. It has a way of bringing people together and lighting up a room,” says Cason. “I learned by doing.”
So check your garage for a board, go to Geo’s for everything you need and prepare to amaze your friends for the Super Bowl, Valentine’s Day, or Mardi Gras with a charcuterie!
And if you’re looking for a unique yet romantic gift for your Valentine on the 14th, Geo’s has you covered. A gift box containing a charcuterie board and a bottle of wine, tied with a bow and topped with a bouquet of roses is sure to please any Valentine. Gift boxes are limited so place your order before 2/11. For details regarding Valentine Date Night on the 10th or the Valentine gift box, go to Geo’s Facebook page.
A cheese ball and crackers can be included on your charcuterie board and Claire the Charcutier offers this recipe for her Grandmother Izzy’s favorite.
Here’s the dish…
Grandmother Izzy’s Cheese Ball
8 oz. package cream cheese
8 oz. Geo’s Buffalo Cheese, shredded
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Paprika to coat
- Mix all ingredients (except paprika).
- Pop into freezer for 5 minutes.
- Shape into ball (or football for the Super Bowl).
- Roll in paprika
- Serve with crackers, chips or veggies.