If you’re wondering how to say charcuterie in English, the simple answer is “cold meats” or “cured meats.” The word “charcuterie” comes from French, and it refers to a selection of sliced meats like ham, salami, sausages, and pâté. In English, people often still use the French word, but “cold meats” or “cured meats” are the closest everyday English meanings. This helps you understand the word easily when reading menus or describing food boards.
The word charcuterie has become popular in English, especially in culinary settings. It usually refers to a platter of cured meats, cheeses, and accompaniments. Learning how to describe, serve, and enjoy charcuterie in English will make you sound confident whether you’re at a restaurant, hosting a party, or exploring gourmet foods.
Say Charcuterie in English
Let’s explore 15 ways to say charcuterie in English, complete with origins, examples, and usage tips.
1. Charcuterie
Origin: French word literally meaning “cooked meat.”
Example:
👤 “We ordered a charcuterie board for the appetizers.”
Use: Common in English menus and casual conversation; widely recognized.
2. Meat Platter
Origin: English translation emphasizing the meat aspect.
Example:
👤 “The chef prepared a meat platter with salami, prosciutto, and ham.”
Use: Simple and clear alternative to charcuterie.
3. Cured Meat Board
Origin: Highlights that the meats are preserved or cured.
Example:
👤 “Try the cured meat board with artisan cheeses.”
Use: Descriptive and formal for menus or parties.
4. Gourmet Meat Platter
Origin: Adds a sophisticated touch to “meat platter.”
Example:
👤 “A gourmet meat platter was served at the wine tasting.”
Use: Formal, fancy, often in upscale restaurants.
5. Artisan Meat Board
Origin: Emphasizes handcrafted or specialty meats.
Example:
👤 “The artisan meat board included locally sourced charcuterie.”
Use: Casual yet upscale, popular in foodie contexts.
6. Deli Meat Platter
Origin: Refers to meats commonly found in delis.
Example:
👤 “We shared a deli meat platter for lunch.”
Use: Informal, home gatherings or casual restaurants.
7. Salami & Cheese Board
Origin: Focus on the most common items in charcuterie.
Example:
👤 “I made a salami & cheese board for the party.”
Use: Casual, easy-to-understand alternative.
8. Antipasto Platter
Origin: Italian style appetizer, often similar to charcuterie.
Example:
👤 “The antipasto platter had prosciutto, olives, and mozzarella.”
Use: More Italian-focused, good for themed menus.
9. Tapas-Style Meat Platter
Origin: Inspired by Spanish small dishes.
Example:
👤 “We served a tapas-style meat platter with chorizo and manchego.”
Use: Casual, party or tapas nights.
10. Snack Board
Origin: Casual term that includes meats, cheeses, and extras.
Example:
👤 “The kids loved the snack board with meats and crackers.”
Use: Informal, family-friendly gatherings.
11. Charcuterie & Cheese Board
Origin: Most common English version for parties.
Example:
👤 “We enjoyed a charcuterie & cheese board with wine.”
Use: Standard party or restaurant serving.
12. Wine & Meat Board
Origin: Highlights pairing with wine.
Example:
👤 “The wine & meat board was perfect for tasting.”
Use: Casual, wine pairing events.
13. Hors d’oeuvre Platter
Origin: French origin meaning “appetizer plate.”
Example:
👤 “The hors d’oeuvre platter included meats, cheeses, and olives.”
Use: Formal, restaurant menus or catered events.
14. Smorgasbord of Meats
Origin: Swedish-inspired term, meaning variety of foods.
Example:
👤 “They served a smorgasbord of meats at the party.”
Use: Casual, fun, emphasizes variety.
15. Party Meat Board
Origin: Simple and casual term for gatherings.
Example:
👤 “I put together a party meat board with salami, ham, and cheeses.”
Use: Informal, home parties or casual events.
FAQs
- What does charcuterie mean in English?
→ A platter of cured meats, often served with cheese, fruits, or crackers. - Can I use “meat platter” instead of charcuterie?
→ Yes, it’s simpler and widely understood. - Is charcuterie only meat?
→ Traditionally, yes, but modern boards often include cheese, fruits, and nuts. - What is the origin of charcuterie?
→ French, from “chair” (meat) + “cuit” (cooked), originally cooked and preserved pork. - Can I say “cheese and meat board”?
→ Absolutely! Very common in English-speaking contexts. - Is “charcuterie” formal or casual in English?
→ Neutral; can be used in casual gatherings or upscale restaurants. - Are there international variations?
→ Yes, Italian antipasto, Spanish tapas, and Swedish smorgasbord are similar. - How do I pronounce charcuterie?
→ SHAR-koo-tuh-ree - Can I use it at home gatherings?
→ Yes! Charcuterie boards are popular for parties and casual events. - Is it okay to just say “snack board” for kids?
→ Yes, it’s simple and kid-friendly.
Conclusion:
Understanding how to say charcuterie in English makes reading menus and talking about food much easier. Whether you use the French word or choose simple English terms like “cold meats” or “cured meats,” you can confidently describe delicious meat selections in any conversation. If you learn just this one phrase, you’ll already sound more natural and knowledgeable when discussing food.
