The Tartan Plaid Layers (Printable)

Layers of savory jerky and smooth cheese woven into a vibrant tartan pattern for snacks or boards.

# Ingredient List:

→ Jerky

01 - 2 oz beef jerky, thin strips
02 - 2 oz turkey jerky, thin strips
03 - 2 oz pork jerky, thin strips

→ Cheese

04 - 2 oz sharp cheddar cheese, thin strips
05 - 2 oz Monterey Jack cheese, thin strips
06 - 2 oz smoked gouda, thin strips

→ Garnish

07 - Fresh parsley or chives, finely chopped (optional)

# Steps:

01 - Arrange a clean cutting board or serving platter as the work surface.
02 - Place half of the jerky strips vertically, alternating colors to establish a plaid base.
03 - Weave strips of cheese horizontally over and under the jerky, alternating cheese types to create a woven pattern.
04 - Interlace the remaining jerky and cheese strips, alternating directions and colors to replicate a tartan plaid design.
05 - Gently press the woven arrangement to secure its structure.
06 - If desired, trim the edges for a tidy presentation.
07 - Sprinkle chopped parsley or chives for color and freshness, if using.
08 - Serve immediately as part of a charcuterie board or cut into squares for individual portions.

# Tips from the Pros:

01 -
  • No cooking required, just pure creative assembly that looks like you spent hours in the kitchen.
  • It's the kind of appetizer people actually remember and ask you to bring back.
  • Gluten-free and low-carb, so it works for almost every dietary preference at the table.
02 -
  • Slice your jerky and cheese thinner than you think you need to—it makes the weaving smooth and the final plaid actually visible instead of chunky.
  • The cheese needs to be cold and pliable, not brittle; if it keeps breaking, let it sit at room temperature for two minutes before slicing.
03 -
  • Use a very sharp knife and cold cheese—this combination creates clean strips instead of crumbles that ruin your pattern.
  • Weave slowly and deliberately rather than rushing; the plaid clarity is what stops people in their tracks.
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