For centuries, the meat platter has served as more than just sustenance. Meat platters are a celebration of different cultures and communal dining. From the ancient smokehouses of Europe and to the spice markets of the Middle East, carefully curated assortments of cured and spiced meats tell the story of global exchange and cultural preservation.
At Angies, we honour and respect this rich heritage by crafting and fusing timeless meat platters that blend tradition and modern creativity. Vibrant Mediterranean mezze and French charcuterie perfectly blended with British pub style sharing boards are expertly transformed into gourmet, nutrient dense experiences. In this quick read, we’ll be exploring the culinary influences behind Angie’s most popular meat platters and how they pay homage to rich cultures that inspired them.
Delicacy Through The Ages: Meat Platters Across Cultures
The tradition of serving a meat platter is deeply rooted in history. It reflects a fascinating interplay of preservation techniques and global trade. Across ancient civilizations, methods such as salting, drying and curing not only extended the shelf life of the meat, but created flavoursome combinations enjoyed till this day. From dried deli cuts to smoked meats, these ancient techniques have consistently been used in modern cuisine.
The meat platter was originally served at grand feasts in Rome and medieval Europe. Banquets were lavished with various meat platters that showcased wealth and power. The evolution of global trade, shaped by the Silk Road, introduced exotic flavours like black pepper, cinnamon and saffron which transformed how we prepare certain meat dishes today, even at Angie’s!
Ancient Preservation And Culinary Techniques
Early Mediterranean and European cultures used smoking, salting and drying as meat preservation methods. By preserving meats, they could extend its shelf life and incorporate meats in their diets throughout the year. Salt derived from seawater was among the first methods used to cure meat.
This method was used as salt draws moisture from the meat and prevents spoilage. Additionally, air drying and sun drying techniques were also used as popular food preservation methods. In some cultures, smoking was the main form of preservation, which involved hanging meat over a fire and added a rich, smoky depth of flavour. Another preservation method that was used to keep meat from spoiling was fermentation, which is still very popular today for certain deli meats, such as salami.
Spices and herbs were used combined with these preservation methods to enhance flavour. These methods, used for centuries around the world in many different cultures, have led to the modern meat platter, often consisting of intense, smoky and rich flavours from specially cured meats.
The Meat Platter: Cuisine For Hospitality And Celebration
The communal sharing of meat was a significant practice in ancient Rome and Greek banquets. Meat distribution reflected the social structure of the society, where kings and nobles would receive the prime cuts. Ancient Roman banquets were a social ritual where citizens feasted to reinforce social bonds. In medieval Europe, meat was a staple in royal court feasts.
Today, while royal banquets may not be as popular as they used to be, meat platter dishes are served at various functions and intimate gatherings, allowing dinner guests to indulge in hearty cuisine while socialising among themselves. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, wedding or work gala, a meat platter selection works wonders for bringing guests together and providing them with an unforgettable night. From corporate functions to intimate dinners, communal meat platters are the perfect way to kick off a dinner party and break the ice among guests.
The Meat Platter: Tasting Cultural Exchange
Ancient trade routes like the Silk Road have had a significant impact on how we season and prepare different meats. The trade and introduction of new exotic spices and herbs was not the only factor to influence the culinary world as culinary techniques were shared and spread across Europe. The Silk Road and its trade influenced how different regions flavoured and prepared meats, with spices like black pepper, saffron and cinnamon used to flavour meats to make them more palatable. These spices and herbs also preserved the meat during storage. Other culinary techniques included grilling and stewing meats with specific spice combinations.
Today, most meat platter dishes are prepared using many of these same culinary techniques, from grilled burgers and succulent wings to hearty stews. These original techniques and flavour pairings have evolved over time, allowing chefs to create innovative dishes that combine an abundance of flavours using various techniques and spices. Thanks to the rich culinary history of various cultures, more and more innovative food techniques have been developed.
Popular Regional Meat Platters And Their Cultural Significance
In Europe, charcuterie and antipasti platters initially emerged from necessity. French and Italian artisans perfected techniques like smoking and fermenting to create delicacies such as prosciutto and pate. Meanwhile, British pub style meat platters reflected tradition and hearty sharable meals rooted in the working class.
Beyond Europe, Middle Eastern and Mediterranean meat platters introduced bold spices, grilled kebabs and mezzo style to the table, transforming dining into a social celebration. The fusion of these worlds allows us to experience and appreciate different cultural identities through the one thing we all share – food.
European Charcuterie And Antipasti Platters
Most individuals have enjoyed the variety a good charcuterie board can offer, but most don’t know the origins of this delicious meat platter. Charcuterie dates back to ancient France and Italy – meaning cooked flesh. In the 15th century, French guilds regulated the production and sale of cured meats. Skilled artisans called “Charcutiers” created a wide variety of cured meats by using every part of the animal.
Italian charcuterie emphasized the high quality meats prepared through old traditional methods and simple seasonings. Salting and curing meat was ideal in the time before refrigeration. Cured hams were served with sausages and pâtés. These meat platters are decorated with preserved pickles, olives and cheeses.
Modern Meat Platter Trends And Angie’s Catering Expertise
At Angies, we believe that exceptional food should be both a feast for the senses and a celebration of diverse tastes. Our carefully crafted meat platter dishes blend traditions with innovation, offering something for every palate. Rooted in London’s multicultural culinary scene and other global cuisine, Angie’s commitment to nutrition and authenticity shines in every dish prepared. Angie’s exceptional gourmet experiences and punctual service will transform your next event into an unforgettable dining experience for your guests.
Customisation For Dietary Needs An[d Preferences
Here at Angie’s, we offer gluten-free and dairy-free options to accommodate a variety of diets. Our ingredients are ethically sourced and include locally sourced meats from the UK alongside carefully chosen exotic elements from abroad. We balance traditional flavours with contemporary dietary requirements without sacrificing flavour and nutrients.
Our Turkey Kofta meat platter showcases a mix of Middle eastern flavours. Turkey, corn and courgette kofta balls are served with a sweet chili and lime mayonnaise, fresh lemon and pea shoots. This meat platter serves 10-12 people and is ideal for providing your guests with a nutrient rich, equally decadent meal.
Today, kofta is among some of the most popular dishes used in meat platters with deep roots in Balkan and eastern regions. These minced and spiced meat kebabs encourage sharing and communal dining among guests, making them the perfect centrepiece for any event.
Creative Presentation And Flavour Pairings
At Angie’s we use seasonal vegetables, fresh herbs and artisan breads to complement meats. Our stunning platter designs are ideal for posting on social media and bringing visual appeal to any food table. Our modern twist on catering platters will enhance any event reflecting London’s multicultural food scene. For a delicious main course that is just as visually appealing as it is mouthwatering, our Beef Onglet exhibits rare beef onglet marinated in soy, chili and ginger served with baby gem and bean sprout salad.
For a variety in meaty cuisine, our Harissa Chicken platter is sure to delight all chicken lovers, consisting of harissa marinated chicken breasts with maple and a grapefruit glaze, served with a chili and parsley salad. This spicy and smoky Mediterranean meat platter incorporates Harissa – a northern African chili paste, made with garlic, chilies, citrus and olive oil. Experience worldly flavours with this divine meat platter.
If neither our Harissa Chicken Or Beef Onglet platters suit your tastes, try our crowd pleasing Chicken Supremes With Parma Ham meat platter. This exquisite roasted chicken with crispy Parma ham is served with watercress, lemon, gremolata and caper berries. Exploding with unique flavours and contrasting textures, this delicious meat platter is sure to have your guests coming back for seconds.
Angie’s Commitment To Quality And Authenticity
We are a trusted catering food provider that transforms ordinary events into extraordinary gatherings. With our expertise in local and exotic cuisine, Angie’s has fused gourmet with the catering world, proving that you can have both high quality cuisine and excellent service delivery.
Fresh and nutritious foods are at the heart of our business, taking the hassle out of delicious and healthy food. Located in Chiswick, Angies offers local and punctual delivery, ideal for that last minute soirée with at least 48hrs notice. Platters are tailored to suit corporate events, weddings, private parties and many more, making them a versatile centrepiece and conversation starter among your guests. Our client testimonials speak for themselves as returning customers are continuously delighted by the convenience of our service and our excellent flavour combinations.
Meat Platter Dishes: Elevate Your Event With Delectable Cuisine From Angie’s
At Angie’s, we celebrate the timeless traditions of meat platters, from ancient preservation techniques to royal feasts and global spice trade routes. The meat platter has always been more than just a meal for sustenance. Rather, these culturally rich dishes bring people together through the sharing and celebration of food. These platters symbolise human connection and cultural heritage, and we bridge this vibrant history with contemporary creativity by crafting platters that embrace modern tastes in our multicultural world.
Each bite tells a story of craftsmanship and the joy of shared dining. Our platters balance individual dietary needs with artful elegance. We invite you to explore Angie’s bespoke meat platter options for your next London event.
