By Aiden ArmstrongA cheese board, cheese plate, or charcuterie board are all terms that describe a delectable plate of items to nibble on and enjoy. Making an Irish cheese board is a perfect way to enjoy aged cheddar and other cheese that have a local flavour and flair.
This is a wonderful way to celebrate the various styles and options in Irish cheese. Designing your board starts with considering what you and your guests would like to enjoy and how to pair these items together for both visual appeal and a great taste experience.
The Cheese
Featuring Irish cheese should be a priority. There are so many different types of cheeses made right here in Ireland that you can choose colours and flavours that match the theme or concept of the board. Look for locally produced cheeses to add to the board. Quality Irish cheeses are made from the milk of cows and sheep that are grass fed, which creates a rich, buttery cheese that is unique to the country.
A strong, mature Irish cheddar is always a must on a cheese plate. For visual appeal, consider a Wicklow blue cheese, which offers a nice bite and tang in a creamy, buttery cheese. Gubbeen cheese is another popular option and provides a nutty taste that pairs well with stronger beers and wines.
The Rest
Meats on a cheese board typically include salami, parma ham, spiced beef sliced very thin, or other types of sausage or deli meats. Slice and cut the meat in shapes that are easy to eat on the crackers and pieces of bread you select to have on the side of the board.
Finish off the presentation with quality olives, pickles, and even sliced raw vegetables. Grapes, figs, nuts, and a variety of mustards and other condiments can be added to the table to allow guests to create their own tasty combinations.
Horgan’s offers the best Irish cheese, including Horgan’s own 1921 Reserve Vintage Cheddar. To see more, visit us at www.horgans.com.
