FOOD CRUSH - Charcuterie ‘N More By Annie
Story & Photos By Amy Dewitt Geurin | Contributing Writer
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It feels like society is becoming more and more obsessed with charcuterie boards. These boards are not a new concept. Charcuterie comes from two French words, chair (meaning flesh) and cuit (meaning cooked). While “cooked flesh” may not sound fantastic, the term was created to describe the act of preserving meat in the 15th century. It makes sense, as cured meat is a widespread staple in modern charcuterie. Along with the taste created by combining different components into one bite, the most amazing thing about charcuterie may be how beautiful it is. It is the practice of assembling food artistically, a style of culinary art. Is there a more appealing piece of art than one made for eating?
Some of the most gorgeous edible art in the form of charcuterie is being created by Annie Wilkins, owner of Charcuterie ‘N More by Annie. Wilkins started her business after years of making specialty charcuterie boards for family and friends. Armed with a vision, social media and access to a commercial kitchen, her pretty displays of cured meats, nuts, fruits, cheeses and more took off.
Her creations are not only inviting, but also super tasty. Incredibly versatile, Wilkins offers never-ending options when it comes to what a client’s charcuterie consists of, as well as how it can be presented. Citrus, crostini, spreads, smoked gouda, pickles (they’re not for me, but they do look pretty on a board), berries, peppers, sharp chesses, salamis, cheese balls, vegetables and soft cheeses are a small sampling of what Wilkins can put together.
Presentation is not limited to a board. An increasingly popular way to heighten the charcuterie experience is a grazing table. Imagine a large table or countertop loaded to the edges with as much variety as the space can handle, directly on the paper-topped surface. Grazing tables are perfect for a larger group of people, such as a wedding reception or graduation, to “graze” the offerings throughout the event. Wilkins delivers the ultimate spread with her grazing tables, stunning clients with her attention to detail and pretty-as-a-picture final product.
Sharing food brings people together, and a well-prepared charcuterie board can be the centerpiece to spark conversation at any event. Charcuterie is often unexpected and always memorable. It’s a gorgeous collection of snacks! Wilkins’ creations are balanced and beautiful, and more importantly, her work gives people a chance to connect. Happy Eating!!!
Top 3 For Me…
Wilkins can do charcuterie in any vessel! If a board doesn’t feel quite right, try cups or boxes or anything else. Get creative!
Charcuterie is for everyone. Meat lovers, cheese lovers, fruit lovers, cracker lovers, it is a fun crowd pleaser.
Party season is upon us, and charcuterie is suitable for any event. Order today for showers, parties, Wednesday wine nights, anything. All parties are perfect for snacks.
Charcuterie ‘n More by Annie is available by preorder.
Follow @charcuterienmorebyannie on Facebook.
Order via Messenger or call 580.749.0968.
If You Find Yourself In ...
Oklahoma City … and you are craving some amazing charcuterie, head to the Chisolm Creek area of north Oklahoma City and snag a spot at Riserva Bar + Tapas. Friends, this is easily one of the top five restaurants in OKC right now. Globally inspired, their charcuterie board is phenomenal. Pulling from Spanish flavors, this board is loaded with Jamon, Spanish chorizo, Drunken goat cheese, Soppressata and house-made pita, among many other accoutrements. This pita is remarkable. I’m not kidding. It is perfection. Chef James Fox has created an ingenious menu enveloped in a stunning space. Everything I’ve tried at Riserva, and I’ve tried most of it, is excellent.
Find Riserva on Facebook and Instagram at @riservatapas.
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