There’s nothing quite like gathering friends and family around a charcuterie board brimming with delicious bites. These boards are the ultimate crowd-pleaser—easy to prepare, visually stunning, and endlessly customisable.
But here’s the twist: why not shake up the traditional charcuterie experience by making beef jerky the star of the show?
Beef jerky brings an exciting edge to your board with its rich flavours, chewy texture, and undeniable Aussie charm. With a mix of premium flavours, clever arrangements, and pro tips, you’ll be ready to create a board that’s as Instagram-worthy as it is irresistible.
What is a charcuterie board?
Charcuterie boards have been around for centuries, originating from the French tradition of preserving and showcasing meats. In its most traditional form, a charcuterie board is an arrangement of cured meats like prosciutto, salami, and pâtés, paired with cheeses, bread, and pickled accompaniments. Over time, this humble concept has evolved into a global entertaining staple, celebrated for its versatility and visual appeal.
Today, the term "charcuterie board" refers to any beautifully arranged platter of snackable goodies. While classic boards feature cured pork and traditional cheeses, modern versions have no limits—fresh fruits, nuts, chocolate, and even dried meats like beef jerky have found their way into the mix. This fusion of flavours and textures is what makes charcuterie boards a creative canvas for hosts and food lovers alike.
Why beef jerky deserves a spot on your board
Beef jerky might not be the first thing you think of when creating a charcuterie board, but it absolutely deserves a starring role. Here’s why:
1. Unmatched variety of flavours
From smoky barbecue to spicy chilli, beef jerky comes in a range of flavours that cater to all taste buds. This variety allows you to mix and match different jerky profiles with cheeses, fruits, and crackers for a dynamic snacking experience.
2. A unique texture
Charcuterie boards thrive on a mix of textures, and jerky adds that chewy, satisfying bite that you just can’t get from other cured meats. Its hearty texture contrasts beautifully with creamy cheeses and crispy crackers, making every bite more exciting.
3. Easy to pair with other ingredients
Beef jerky’s versatility shines when it’s paired with complementary flavours. Spicy jerky works wonders alongside creamy cheeses like brie, while sweeter varieties are elevated by dried fruits and nuts. Its bold taste can stand up to strong cheeses, tangy pickles, and even chocolate for a sweet-and-savoury twist.
4. High-protein, low-guilt snacking
Unlike some indulgent charcuterie items, beef jerky is a protein-packed, low-fat option that doesn’t skimp on flavour. It’s a great way to keep your board delicious and wholesome, giving your guests a snack they can feel good about eating.
Steps to create the perfect beef jerky charcuterie board
Step #1: Choose the right board
The foundation of any great charcuterie board is, well, the board itself! Opt for a sturdy surface like a wooden cutting board, a marble slab, or even a slate platter. The size will depend on how many people you’re catering to, but don’t be afraid to go big—you want enough room to showcase all the goodies while keeping it easy to grab from all sides.
Step #2: Plan your ingredients
A well-rounded charcuterie board thrives on variety. Here’s what we reckon you should include:
Beef jerky and other various meats
Pick 2-3 flavors to offer contrast. For example:
- Sweet BBQ Beef Jerky for a mild, family-friendly option.
- Chilli Beef Jerky for those who love a kick.
- Exotic Truffle Beef Jerky for a rich, gourmet profile.
Cheeses
Go for a mix of textures and strengths. Include:
- A creamy soft cheese (e.g., brie or camembert).
- A sharp hard cheese (e.g., aged cheddar or parmesan).
- A novelty cheese (e.g., a fruit-infused goat cheese).
Fruits and veggies
- Fresh: Grapes, apple slices, carrots, berries, or cherry tomatoes.
- Dried: Apricots, cranberries, or figs.
If dried fruit is more your thing, we’ve got you covered with our Fruit Jerky Air-Dried Fruit Salad—a perfectly sweet and chewy addition to any board.
Crunchy elements
- Crackers: Water crackers, seeded crisps, or baguette slices.
- Nuts: Almonds, pistachios, or roasted cashews.
Dips and spreads
- Hummus, mustard, chutneys, or honey for a touch of sweetness.
Extras
- Olives, pickles, and marinated veggies for tangy pops of flavour.
Step #3: Arrange like a pro
Let’s be real—you’re not putting all this effort into crafting the perfect beef jerky charcuterie board just to have it go unnoticed. Make it insta-worthy!
Start with the “anchor items” like bowls of dips, large cheeses, or clusters of jerky, and place them evenly across the board. Then, layer in smaller items like crackers, fruits, and nuts to fill the gaps. Follow these tips for a standout display:
- Colours: Use vibrant fruits and veggies to add pops of colour.
- Textures: Combine creamy, crunchy, and chewy elements for contrast.
- Height: Stack crackers or fan out jerky slices to create dimension.
Step #4: Pairing tips for maximum flavour
Take your charcuterie board to the next level with these foolproof pairings:
- Chilli Beef Jerky + creamy brie + a drizzle of honey
- Smokey Beef Jerky + blue cheese + fresh pear slices
- Texan Beef Jerky + sharp cheddar + dried apricots
For drinks, pair with a chilled beer, a fruity red wine, or even a sparkling non-alcoholic option like ginger ale.
Step #5: Finishing touches
Make your board pop with a few small details:
- Garnish with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme.
- Include cheese knives and small tongs for easy serving.
- Add serviettes and toothpicks to keep things tidy.
Where to get the best beef jerky in Australia
The Jerky Co’s premium Aussie beef jerky is exactly what you need to make your board shine. Not only do we use MSA-grade Australian beef, but our jerky is packed with flavour and designed to pair perfectly with all the cheeses, fruits, and dips your heart desires. Plus, with our convenient online store, you can stock up on your favourite jerky flavours and have them delivered straight to your door. No stress, no hassle—just premium jerky, ready to take your board to the next level.
So, go on, snap that Insta-worthy pic, tag us @thejerkyco, and show the world your charcuterie masterpiece. Whether it’s for a family gathering, a cheeky snack night, or just because, we’ve got the jerky to make your board unforgettable.
What are you waiting for? Head to our shop, grab your jerky, and get building!
