Mustard and Charcuterie

No charcuterie board is truly complete without the perfect mustard accompaniment. The condiment doesn't just add a burst of flavor, but enhances and elevates the entire charcuterie experience.

The Right Mustard for the Right Meat

The key to an exceptional charcuterie board is complementing each type of cured meat with a mustard that brings out its unique flavors. Here are some prime pairings:

• Prosciutto or Jamón Serrano: Try a grainy Dijon or whole-grain mustard to contrast the meat's saltiness.

• Try Bournier’s Organic Wholegrain Dijon Mustard

• Soppressata or Chorizo: Pair with a bold, spicy brown mustard or English mustard.

• Try Kosciusko Spicy Brown Mustard

• Bresaola or Smoked Duck Breast: An herby, coarse-ground mustard plays off the smokiness, as will a fruity mustard.

• Try Plochman’s Swet Fig Craft Mustard

• Pâtés and Rillettes: Opt for a richly-flavored beer, Bordeaux wine, or honey mustard.

• Try Cherchie’s Champagne Mustard or Cuisine Perel Chardonnay Jalapeno Gourmet Mustard

When in doubt, include a variety of mustards from smooth to coarse-grained so guests can find their perfect match.

Cheese Pairing Possibilities

Mustard also partners beautifully with various cheeses. Its sharp tanginess can cut through rich, creamy cheese and balance out salty, pungent varieties. Some tasty cheese and mustard combinations:

• Brie or Camembert: Pair with a sweet-tart cranberry or fig mustard.

• Try the aforementioned Plochman’s Swet Fig Craft Mustard or Beaver Cranberry Mustard

• Cheddars: English-style cheddar loves a zesty English pub mustard.

• Try Stonewall Kitchen’s Traditional Pub Style Mustard

• Blues: Both sweet and spicy mustards complement bold blue cheeses like Roquefort or gorgonzola.

• Try Paradigm Foodworks Spicy Pub Style Mustard or the aforementioned Beaver Cranberry Mustard

• Aged Cheeses: Nutty gruyères and sharp aged goudas go well with robust whole-grain mustards.

• Try the classic Maille Wholegrain Mustard

Serving Mustard for Charcuterie

When plating your charcuterie spread, provide at least 2-3 different mustard varieties in separate ramekins or small bowls. Place them near the cured meats and cheese so guests can easily sample and schmear.

For a beautiful presentation, try hollowing out an artisanal bread boule and pouring whole-grain or stone-ground mustard inside to use as an edible mustard bowl or vessel. It adds a rustic, creative touch.

You can also get creative with composed mustard accompaniments like:

• Mustard-Maple Glazed Walnuts or Pecans

• Mustard-Tarragon Deviled Eggs (we like Edmond Fallot Tarragon Mustard for this)

• Sliced Cornichons or Crudités with Mustard Sauce (Maille sells a delicious cornichon that get the vinegar balance just right)

• Mustard and Butter-Poached Radishes

With such a diverse range of flavor profiles, mustard is the perfect accent for any charcuterie board worth its salt. So elevate your next meat and cheese course with the right mustard pairings and preparations - your taste buds will thank you!