Cold Meats Recipe: A Guide to Making the Perfect Cold Meat Platter for Luncheons or Suppers

Introduction

Cold meats are a quintessential dish that can be enjoyed year-round, whether as part of a light luncheon, a hearty supper, or as an appetizer for a special occasion. In Margaret’s household, cold meats were a favorite, and they were often served with creative garnishes and accompaniments to make the meal visually appealing and delicious. When prepared correctly, cold meats can be both a treat for the eyes and the palate.

Serving cold meats with the right accompaniments and garnishes can elevate the experience, making a seemingly simple dish look like a gourmet creation. From adding sliced boiled eggs to garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or creating decorative lettuce ribbons, the presentation of cold meats can transform them into an elegant platter that will impress your guests.

This guide will explore the essentials of preparing and presenting cold meats, with details on the ingredients, steps, and thoughtful tips to make the dish both attractive and delicious.

Ingredients

The key to a successful cold meat platter lies in the quality of the meats and the garnishes you use. Here are the ingredients you’ll need:

For the Cold Meats:

• Cooked meats such as: 
• Cold Chicken or Turkey (the meat should be well-cooked, with skin removed and sliced or shredded as desired)
• Ham (cold and sliced thinly)
• Roast Beef (cold and sliced)
• Lamb (cold and sliced)
• Other meats of choice, depending on your preferences (e.g., pork, veal, or even a combination)

For Garnishes:

• Hard-boiled eggs (for slices or devilled eggs)
• Lettuce (to create decorative ribbons)
• Pimolas (a type of small, sweet pepper, optional for garnishing)
• Fresh parsley (for a vibrant garnish)
• Saratoga potatoes (for a crunchy border, especially with lamb or roast beef)
• Cold peas (mixed with mayonnaise, great with chicken or lamb)
• Mayonnaise (for the pea mixture)

These ingredients can be adjusted based on the types of cold meats you’re serving, as well as your personal preferences for garnishes and accompaniments.

Steps of How to Prepare Cold Meats

Step 1: Prepare the Meats

1. Trim the meats: Start by trimming off any excess skin, fat, or ragged pieces from the cold meats. The exception is ham, where a little fat is often left to enhance the flavor and keep the meat moist. For chicken and turkey, remove the skin completely to make the dish lighter and easier to serve.
2. Slice the meats: Slice the meats into thin, even pieces. For cold chicken or turkey, you can either serve the meat in slices or shred it. For roast beef and lamb, thin, uniform slices will ensure that the meat is easy to eat and visually appealing.
3. Keep the meats cold: Make sure the meats are chilled before assembling the platter. This ensures that the cold meats maintain their texture and are easy to slice.

Step 2: Garnish and Decorate

1. Hard-boiled eggs: One of the classic ways to enhance the presentation of cold meats is by garnishing with hard-boiled eggs. Simply boil the eggs until they are firm (around 10-12 minutes), peel them, and then slice them into halves or quarters. Arrange them around the edge of the platter, or if you prefer a more decorative touch, devilled eggs can be placed on the platter in halves, which also adds a spicy and creamy flavor contrast to the meats.
2. Lettuce ribbons: To create a beautiful, textured look, take several lettuce leaves (preferably Romaine or iceberg) and stack them. Fold the leaves lengthwise and cut them into thin ribbons using kitchen scissors. These lettuce ribbons can then be arranged in the center or edges of the platter, adding a fresh and vibrant touch.
3. Pimolas: If you’re serving cold chicken or turkey, consider slicing a dozen pimolas (small, sweet peppers) across and placing them around the meats. Pimolas are sweet and colorful, making them an excellent complement to the mild flavors of poultry.
4. Fresh parsley: Fresh parsley is a must-have for any cold meat platter. Not only does it brighten up the presentation, but it also adds a burst of flavor. Simply scatter small sprigs of parsley around the platter or place them neatly in the center.
5. Saratoga potatoes: If you’re serving lamb or roast beef, Saratoga potatoes (thinly sliced, fried potatoes) make a wonderful border. Their crisp texture pairs well with the richness of the meats, and they add an attractive, crunchy element to the dish.
6. Cold peas with mayonnaise: A side of cold peas mixed with mayonnaise is a classic accompaniment to both chicken and lamb. Simply mix chilled peas with mayonnaise and a little salt and pepper to taste. This creamy side dish complements the meats and provides a refreshing contrast.

Step 3: Assemble the Platter

1. Arrange the meats: Begin by placing the largest pieces of meat in the center of the platter. For example, place roast beef or lamb in the middle. Surround the centerpiece with smaller pieces of cold chicken, turkey, or ham. Be mindful of the arrangement—aim for a balanced, aesthetically pleasing presentation.
2. Add the garnishes: Once the meats are in place, arrange the hard-boiled eggs, lettuce ribbons, pimolas, and fresh parsley around the meat in a way that highlights each ingredient and adds visual appeal.
3. Finish with the sides: Place the Saratoga potatoes around the edges of the platter for lamb or roast beef. Add the cold peas with mayonnaise to the side or in a small dish next to the platter.
4. Chill and serve: Once the platter is assembled, chill it in the refrigerator until ready to serve. This keeps the meats and garnishes fresh and cool, making them more enjoyable to eat.

Benefits of Cold Meats

Cold meats are not just delicious but also come with several benefits that make them a great choice for casual meals and gatherings.

1. Convenient and Quick: Cold meats are typically easy to prepare, as they can be made ahead of time and served without additional cooking. This makes them ideal for lunch, supper, or entertaining.
2. Rich in Protein: Cold meats like chicken, turkey, and roast beef are excellent sources of protein, which is vital for building and repairing muscles, immune function, and overall health.
3. Nutrient-Rich: Depending on the type of meat you choose, cold meats can provide essential vitamins and minerals. For example, turkey is rich in B vitamins, and roast beef offers iron and zinc.
4. Versatile: Cold meats can be served in various ways, from sandwiches and wraps to elaborate platters. They can be paired with a variety of sides and garnishes to suit different tastes and dietary preferences.
5. Great for Leftovers: Cold meats are a great way to repurpose leftovers. After cooking a large meal, cold meats can be used for sandwiches, salads, or served as a platter for the next meal.

Facts About Cold Meats

1. A Tradition Across Cultures: Many cultures around the world have their own versions of cold meats, often served as part of celebratory meals or large gatherings.
2. Health Benefits: Lean cuts of cold meats, such as turkey and chicken, are often lower in fat compared to other meats like pork and beef, making them a healthier choice for those watching their fat intake.
3. Customizable Platter: Cold meat platters can be easily customized based on dietary preferences, allowing you to accommodate guests with different tastes and needs, such as those who prefer more vegetables or those avoiding gluten.