Beginners Guide to Wood Charcuterie Boards

For centuries, wood has been a favorite material for cutting surfaces due to its availability, ease of use, and gentle touch on sharp kitchen tools. From cutting boards to charcuterie platters and serving trays, wooden options come in countless forms and materials, including plastic, glass, steel, and marble, each with its own cleaning benefits. Unlike harder materials that can damage your knives, wooden cutting boards offer a softer surface that minimizes tool wear. Although wood boards may show some signs of knife marks, they naturally heal over time, ensuring a smooth appearance with proper care. Additionally, wooden charcuterie boards are often crafted from leftover furniture pieces, reducing waste and providing elegant solutions for serving everything from desserts to meats.

Selecting the right type of wood is crucial for maintaining kitchen hygiene and prolonging the life of your tools. Both softwoods and hardwoods have their uses, but hardwoods are generally preferred for cooking due to their durability and resistance to scratches and mold. Maple, walnut, cherry, beech, and ash are popular hardwood choices for cutting boards because of their tight grain structures and antibacterial properties. Beech, in particular, strikes a balance between hardness and gentleness on knives, making it a cost-effective option compared to other hardwoods.

Woodworking scraps often end up as landfill, but they can be repurposed into beautiful cutting boards and serving trays. End grain cutting boards are created by joining the ends of wood pieces, requiring specialized adhesives. This method not only enhances the board's charm but also improves its resistance to cuts and warping. While end grain boards are pricier, their intricate patterns make them highly sought-after. On the other hand, edge grain chopping boards, which are more budget-friendly and common in kitchens, maintain simplicity and affordability through straightforward construction. With proper care, both types of boards can become cherished kitchen staples.

Ever noticed those butterfly-shaped joints popping up in woodworking circles? Known as bow ties, dovetail keys, or Dutchman joints, these designs aren’t just decorative—they serve a functional purpose too. By tying multiple pieces of wood together, they prevent splitting and enhance structural integrity in items like picture frames, doors, and tables. Today, these joints are trending in custom wood products, including cutting boards and serving trays, creating unique and eye-catching kitchenware.

Despite their toughness, wooden cutting boards require careful handling to maintain their quality. First, avoid running your board through the dishwasher, as heat and water can cause warping and splitting. Instead, gently wash it with mild dish soap and warm water, focusing on scrubbing rather than relying solely on detergent. Bleach should be avoided, as it can discolor and dry out the wood. Afterward, dry the board thoroughly with a towel and let it air-dry upright on both sides. For stubborn stains or odors, apply vinegar or lemon juice to neutralize lingering residues.

Regular oiling is another essential aspect of wooden cutting board maintenance. Applying mineral oil a few times annually can help protect the wood from moisture and cracks. However, avoid using standard machine-grade mineral oil, as it’s not safe for food contact. Specialized cutting board oil penetrates deeply into the wood fibers, forming a protective barrier against liquids and humidity. When applying oil, use a cloth or brush rather than your hands to minimize the risk of splinters. Never use vegetable or olive oil, as they attract bacteria and can spoil over time. Neglected boards often warp due to insufficient maintenance. Charcuterie boards and serving trays make thoughtful gifts, especially during holidays when shipping delays are common—consider supporting local artisans by purchasing handmade wooden pieces.

^{(1) (2) (3) (4)} Elliot Bell, "How To Choose the Best for Your Cutting Board," Misen, August 04, 2019, misen.com/blogs/news/best-wood-for-your-cutting-board
^{(5) (6)} "Butterfly Joint," Wikipedia The Free Encyclopedia, 13 February 2021, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Butterfly_joint
^{(7) (8) (9) (10) (11) (12) (13) (14)} "How to Oil and Maintain a Cutting Board," CuttingBoard.Com, www.cuttingboard.com/how-to-oil-and-maintain-a-cutting-board/