How to Make the Perfect Charcuterie Board to Pair with Manuka Honey
A good charcuterie board is like a party on a plate. A great one? That’s when you add manuka honey. Its rich, earthy sweetness doesn’t just sit there looking pretty — it brings harmony, balance, and a little wow factor to every bite. Here’s how to build a board that will impress your guests (and maybe even yourself).
Build Your Base
Every masterpiece needs a canvas. For charcuterie, that’s your board. Go rustic with timber, sleek with marble, or dramatic with slate. Leave little spaces for bowls or jars — one of them will be the star of the show: the manuka honey.
Cheese Loves Honey
If there’s one thing honey was born to do, it’s making cheese sing. A few must-haves:
- Brie or camembert: soft, gooey, and a dream with honey.
- Blue cheese: salty, bold, and suddenly irresistible with a drizzle.
- Aged cheeses: think manchego or parmesan — nutty flavours that pop with honey.
- Goat cheese: tangy and smooth, the perfect honey companion.
Cut some pieces ahead of time so no one has to hesitate before diving in.
Meats Meet Their Match
Manuka honey takes cured meats from savoury to sublime. Try:
- Prosciutto folded into ribbons.
- Salami for spice and richness.
- Smoked ham for depth and balance.
The saltiness of the meat and the sweetness of the honey is a combination worth repeating.
Fresh and Juicy
Fruit and honey are a natural match, and they add bursts of freshness to your board. Think grapes, figs, apple slices, or pear wedges. Dried fruits like apricots or dates bring chewiness, while cucumber or cherry tomatoes stop things from getting too heavy.
Crunch Time
No board is complete without crunch. Add variety with:
- A mix of crackers and breadsticks.
- Toasted baguette slices.
- A handful of roasted nuts (almonds, pecans, walnuts).
If you really want to show off, drizzle honey over the nuts before serving — it’s a little detail that makes people stop and notice.
Spotlight on the Honey
Don’t just plonk the jar on the table. Give manuka honey the attention it deserves. Use a small bowl or jar, add a honey dipper, and let it shine in the middle of your board. It’s not just an accessory; it’s the golden thread tying everything together.
Drinks to Match
The right drink will lift your board even higher. A crisp Sauvignon Blanc, a light Pinot Noir, or a bottle of bubbles will all work beautifully. If you’d rather keep it alcohol-free, sparkling water with a slice of lemon or a pot of herbal tea is just as refreshing.
The Final Drizzle
A charcuterie board is about mixing, matching, and discovering new favourite bites. Manuka honey doesn’t just elevate the flavours; it elevates the experience. Pair it with cheese, meats, fruits, or nuts, and watch how quickly your guests become honey converts.
