Are you planning to make the ultimate charcuterie board for your next party or gathering? One of the key elements that can take your charcuterie board from good to great is the addition of a spread or jam. Typically, the commonly used jams are apricot jam and fig jam. But did you know that there are other types of jams that you can use to complement different types of cheese, cracker, or sweeter ham?

In this blog post, we will dive into the different types of jams that can be used on a charcuterie board. From classic berry jams to unique flavors like spicy pepper jams, we will cover it all. We will also discuss how to pair different types of cheese with the right jam, as well as how to choose a jam that complements the flavors of your charcuterie board.

So, whether you're a seasoned charcuterie board maker or a beginner, this blog post is for you. Get ready to take your charcuterie game to the next level by adding the perfect jam to your board!

Here Are Some of the Most Popular Jams Their Cheese Pairings

When it comes to creating the perfect charcuterie board, combining a variety of cheeses, cured meats, and jams is essential. A cheese board with sweet jams and savory jams can elevate your platter and provide an array of flavors for your guests to enjoy.

Pairing the right cheese with the perfect jam is key to achieving a delicious and well-rounded experience. The saltiness of cured meats like salami complements the sweet and tangy flavors of the preserves, creating a harmonious balance of tastes.

Blue cheese is bold and flavorful making it the perfect cheese that pairs well with sweeter jam varieties. A mild cheese, on the other hand, works best with a more tangy or savory jam. Choosing the best combination of cheese and jam is essential for creating a delightful charcuterie board.

Fig Jam

Fig jam is a popular choice, as it goes well with a wide range of cheeses such as brie, Emmental, mozzarella, feta, and sharp cheddar. The sweetness of the fig jam balances the savory and salty flavors of the cheeses, creating a delicious pairing.

Apricot Jam

Apricot jam is another favorite, pairing perfectly with Parmigiano Reggiano, gran padano, dry Monterey jack, and gran queso. The fruity and tangy taste of the apricot jam enhances the nutty and salty flavors of these aged cheeses.

Raspberry Jam

Raspberry jam, with its sweet and tangy notes, is a delightful match for brie, cream cheese, and parmigiano reggiano. The bright acidity of the raspberry jam contrasts with the creaminess of the cheeses, creating a satisfying balance.

Strawberry Jam

Strawberry jam is a kind of jam that offers versatility, as it can go well with goat cheese, cream cheese, and brie. Its sweet and fruity flavor complements the tanginess of goat cheese and the creaminess of brie and cream cheese making these cheese and jam pairings a must-try.

Plum Jam

Plum jam, with its deep and rich flavor, pairs wonderfully with goat cheese, cream cheese, and smoked gouda. The sweetness of the jam is balanced by the saltiness and smokiness of these cheeses.

Peach Jam

Peach jam is another fruity option, perfect for pairing with goat cheese and baked brie. Its sweet and slightly tangy flavor complements the creamy and tangy notes of these cheeses.

Orange Marmalade

Orange marmalade, with its tangy and citrusy taste, is a great match for gouda, monterey jack, and semi-aged pecorino. The bright acidity of the marmalade contrasts with the buttery and nutty flavors of these cheeses.

Cranberry Jam

Cranberry jam, with its sweet and tart flavor profile, pairs well with goat cheese, camembert, triple creme, and brie. The tanginess of the cranberry jam complements the creaminess and mild flavors of these cheeses.

Chipotle Jelly or Black Currant Jam

Chipotle jelly or black currant jam offers a more savory option, pairing well with spicy blue cheese, feta, aged parmesan, and sharp cheddar. The smoky and spicy notes of the chipotle jelly, or the deep and rich flavor of black currant jam, contrast with the saltiness and pungency of these bold cheese types.

Blackberry Jam

Blackberry jam, with its sweet and slightly tart taste, is a fantastic partner for manchego, triple creme, goat cheese, feta, and camembert. The jam's fruity flavor enhances the nutty, creamy, and tangy characteristics of these cheeses.

Apple Jam

Apple jam is another versatile jam on a charcuterie board, pairing well with mozzarella, goat cheese, fontina, and cheddar-like cheeses. The sweetness and mild tartness of the apple jam complements the creaminess and mild flavors of these cheeses.

To add another layer of flavor, consider incorporating cherry jam or pear jam into your cheese board. Cherry jam, with its sweet and tangy flavor, pairs beautifully with aged cheese, hard cheeses, and tangy varieties. Pear jam, on the other hand, offers a delicate sweetness that complements creamy cheese, acidic cheeses, and mild options.

When selecting jams for a charcuterie board, consider the variety of cheeses you have chosen. Sweeter jams go well with goat cheeses and tangy varieties, while more savory jams are ideal for bold cheese types. Experiment with different combinations to find the perfect balance of flavors for your platter.

Complete Your Charcuterie Boards With These Additions

• Cured meats: Salami, prosciutto, soppressata, and capicola are all delicious options that add a salty and savory contrast to the sweet flavors of your favorite jams that go on a charcuterie board.
• Crackers and bread: Choose a variety of crackers or bread, such as crostini, baguette slices, or whole-grain crackers, to provide a crunchy base for the cheeses, jams, and cured meats.
• Nuts: Almonds, walnuts, pecans, or pistachios add a nice crunch and earthy flavor that complements the rich, creamy cheeses like cheddar and brie.
• Olives: A mix of green and black olives adds a briny touch and diversity to your charcuterie plate.
• Fresh fruit: Grapes, apple slices, and berries provide a sweet and refreshing contrast to the cured meats and even out the saltiness of the board.
• Dips: Offer a selection of dips, such as hummus or tapenade, to complement the other items on the board and add an extra layer of flavor.

When choosing the right jam to go on top of your cheeses, consider apricot and fig jams for their sweet and savory flavor combinations. These jams add a delightful touch to your charcuterie plate and elevate the taste of the cheeses and meats.

Conclusion

In conclusion, charcuterie boards have become a popular and versatile choice for entertaining, offering a mouthwatering array of flavors and textures. By incorporating a variety of cured meats, cheeses, jams, and other accompaniments, you can create a visually stunning and delicious spread that will delight your guests.

Remember to include at least 2 jams on your board, as jams and jellies go well with various cheeses and cured meats, enhancing their flavors and creating unique combinations.

With the right mix of food items, your charcuterie board will not only impress but also provide a memorable culinary experience for everyone to enjoy. 

Related Articles

• What Is a Charcuterie Board and How To Make One?
• Best Wine for Charcuterie, an In-depth Guide
• How To Cut Cheese for Charcuterie Board?

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