Wagoner’s Ploughman’s Board π€π
Clan: Copper Dragon π€
Category: Tavern & Pub Classics
Wagoner’s Ploughman’s Board
Along the old trade routes of the Copper Dragon territories, wagoners and merchants often stopped at roadside inns for a hearty midday meal before continuing their journeys. The Ploughman’s Board became a favourite because it required no lengthy cooking and showcased the finest local produce. Thick-cut cheese, crusty bread, pickles, ham, and fresh fruit combine to create a feast that’s simple, satisfying, and perfect for sharing.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No complicated cooking required
- Perfect for sharing
- Great for summer lunches
- Customisable to your tastes
- Traditional British pub favourite
Prep Time
15 Minutes
Cook Time
5 Minutes
Serves
4
Ingredients
For the Board
- 300g mature cheddar cheese, sliced
- 200g cooked ham, sliced
- 1 crusty loaf, sliced
- 50g butter
- 4 tbsp pickle or chutney
- 1 apple, sliced
- 1 pear, sliced
- 100g grapes
- 4 pickled onions
- 4 gherkins
Optional Additions
- Scotch eggs
- Pork pie slices
- Celery sticks
- Cherry tomatoes
Method
Step 1 β Prepare the Bread
Slice the loaf into thick pieces.
Lightly butter if desired.
Step 2 β Arrange the Cheese
Place the cheddar slices onto a large serving board.
Step 3 β Add the Tavern Fare
Arrange the ham, pickled onions, gherkins, and fruit around the cheese.
Step 4 β Summon the Condiments
Add small dishes of pickle or chutney.
Step 5 β Complete the Feast
Fill any gaps with additional items such as pork pie, Scotch eggs, or vegetables.
Step 6 β Serve
Place the board in the centre of the table.
Allow everyone to help themselves.
π Dragon’s Tip
Use a variety of textures and colours when building the board to make it look as impressive as possible.
πΊοΈ Adventurer’s Notes
π§ Tavern Keeper’s Upgrade
Include a second cheese such as Red Leicester or Stilton.
βοΈ Traveller’s Feast
Add pork pie, sausage rolls, and Scotch eggs for a substantial meal.
π Orchard Variation
Swap the fruit depending on the season.
πΊ Alehouse Secret
Serve alongside a pint of cider or ale for a traditional pub experience.
π° Market Day Saver
Use whatever cheese, fruit, and bread are on offer.
π₯ Coaching Inn Method
Toast the bread lightly before serving for extra crunch.
π Lore of the Hoard
The Wagoner’s Ploughman’s Board traces its origins to the great trade roads that connect the Copper Dragon territories. Travellers needed meals that were filling, practical, and easy to serve. Innkeepers soon discovered that simple local ingredients arranged beautifully could satisfy even the hungriest merchant. Today, the Ploughman’s Board remains a symbol of hospitality, good company, and the simple pleasures of tavern life. π€π