GET ON BOARD. You've heard of a charcuterie board but have you heard of a chili-cuterie board? Here's a few components to try for your next chili night.

If you keep up with food trends, you'll have noticed that food “boards” are all the rage as of late – charcuterie and otherwise. And as a millennial who grew up on Lunchables – essentially charcuterie for kids – I’m no exception to this sentiment. That being said, my past few months have been occupied by char-BOO-terie (spooky-themed charcuterie), game day boards (Go Pack go!), and just general 2-D displays of treats and snacks laid out in an aesthetically pleasing way.

So, here we land at the chili-cuterie. I knew it was chili season and I knew I loved little toppings in abundance. Now, to be fair, I did come across this trend on social media, but knew I needed to make it my own. My partner actually mostly handled the (keto-friendly) chili-making while I took over the chopping, prepping, arranging, and overall aesthetics that were ultimately, originally, just for the two of us. 

It includes all the basics – sour cream, onion, cheddar, Fritos, etc. – but also some things that we personally really enjoy, such as ghost pepper gouda, hot chili oil, bacon bits, and avocado, which were thoroughly enjoyed sporadically over the course of two or three bowls each that evening and periodically throughout the following week. And then, surprisingly so, abundantly by the Eau Claire Foodies Facebook group as well ... 

In my opinion, there really isn’t a wrong way to create a charcuterie-style board. In fact, I think I might try a sushi one next and definitely some holiday-themed ones during the season as well. So, if you have an idea for one, go for it. Play with it, get creative – there are no wrong answers. As long as it’s delicious: That’s the only requirement. 

Follow @quinniln on Instagram for more food creations and snaps of general local happenings.