Brettljause is a traditional Austrian snack, typically served on a wooden board (brettl) and shared among friends or family. This savory platter consists of cold cuts, cheese, bread, and pickled vegetables, making it a hearty and satisfying choice for a midday break or light dinner. While it's rich in protein and fat from the cold cuts and cheese, it can be balanced by the fiber in the bread and vegetables. Brettljause offers several benefits, including a good source of essential vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin B12, calcium, and iron. However, it's important to consume it in moderation due to its high fat and sodium content. When enjoyed as part of a balanced diet, Brettljause can provide a social and delicious culinary experience while contributing to overall nutrition.

Here is a step-by-step method for preparing a classic Brettljause:

Ingredients:

1- Assorted cold cuts (such as ham, salami, and prosciutto)

2- Cheese (such as Gouda, Swiss, and brie)

3- Bread (such as rye, whole wheat, or sourdough)

4- Pickled vegetables (such as cornichons, pickled onions, and sauerkraut)

5- Mustard and/or horseradish (optional)

6- Butter (optional)

Instructions:

1- Start by selecting a wooden board or platter to serve the Brettljause on. The board should be large enough to accommodate all of the ingredients.

2- Arrange the cold cuts and cheese on the board, making sure to leave some space between each item. You can slice the cold cuts and cheese ahead of time or leave them whole for a more rustic look.

3- Add the pickled vegetables to the board, placing them in small bowls or directly on the board. You can also add fresh vegetables such as cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumbers, or radishes for color and texture.

4- Slice the bread and arrange it around the edges of the board. You can toast the bread or serve it fresh, depending on your preference.

5- If desired, serve mustard and/or horseradish on the side for dipping or spreading on the bread. You can also add a small dish of butter for spreading on the bread.

6- Enjoy the Brettljause with friends or family, sharing the different items and trying different combinations.

Notes:

1- Brettljause can be customized to your preferences. You can add different types of cold cuts and cheese, as well as additional items such as nuts, fruit, or crackers.

2- If you are serving Brettljause for a larger group, you may want to make multiple platters or arrange the items on a larger board.

3- Brettljause is typically served with a glass of wine or beer, but you can also enjoy it with a non-alcoholic beverage such as sparkling water or lemonade.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1.Can Brettljause be eaten as a main meal?

• Brettljause is typically enjoyed as a light snack, but with the right additions, it can become a satisfying main meal. You can enhance it by adding fruits, nuts, or more substantial sides like a salad to make it a complete meal.

2.What ingredients can be swapped for a healthier version?

• To make a healthier version of Brettljause, you can replace regular bread with whole grain or gluten-free options. Opt for leaner cuts of meat or plant-based proteins, and choose reduced-fat cheese or even skip the cheese for a lighter meal.

3.Are there any other pickled vegetables that can be used?

• Yes! You can replace traditional pickled vegetables with alternatives like pickled carrots, radishes, or spicy pickled peppers to add variety and an extra kick to the dish.

4.Can Brettljause fit into a specific diet plan?

• Brettljause can fit into low-carb or protein-focused diets, but it’s essential to keep an eye on the sodium and fat content, especially from cured meats and cheeses. If you're following a diet like keto, you might opt for more cheese and fewer carbs, while for a lower-sodium diet, you can choose leaner meats and lower-sodium pickled veggies.

Health Benefits:

• Protein: The cold cuts and cheese provide a good source of protein, essential for muscle repair and immune function. 
• Fat: The fats in Brettljause primarily come from the cheese and cold cuts. While fats are necessary for energy and the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K)
• Carbohydrates: The bread (typically rye, whole wheat, or sourdough) provides carbohydrates, which are the body's primary source of energy. The fiber from whole grain bread helps in digestion and contributes to a feeling of fullness, making the snack more satisfying.
• Pickled Vegetables: The pickled vegetables, such as cornichons and sauerkraut, are rich in probiotics, which promote gut health and digestion. They can also help in balancing the pH levels in the stomach.
• Whole Grain Bread: Whole grain bread is a great source of fiber, which aids digestion, helps in lowering cholesterol levels, and maintains blood sugar levels.
• Mustard and Horseradish: These condiments contain compounds known to have anti-inflammatory properties, and horseradish, in particular, is known for its ability to help clear sinuses and improve digestion.

Nutrition Facts:

Assorted Cold Cuts (2 oz serving):

  - Calories: ~120-160 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: ~1-2 g

  - Protein: ~10-15 g

  - Fat: ~8-12 g

  - Sodium: ~600-800 mg

Cheese (1 oz serving):

  - Calories: ~90-120 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: ~0-2 g

  - Protein: ~5-8 g

  - Fat: ~7-10 g

  - Sodium: ~150-300 mg

Bread (1 slice):

  - Calories: ~70-120 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: ~12-25 g

  - Protein: ~2-5 g

  - Fat: ~0.5-3 g

  - Sodium: ~100-250 mg

Pickled Vegetables (1 oz serving):

  - Calories: ~5-15 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: ~1-3 g

  - Protein: ~0-1 g

  - Fat: ~0 g

  - Sodium: ~100-300 mg

Mustard and/or Horseradish (1 tbsp):

  - Calories: ~0-10 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: ~0-2 g

  - Protein: ~0-0.5 g

  - Fat: ~0-0.5 g

  - Sodium: ~50-150 mg

Butter (1 pat/serving):

  - Calories: ~35-45 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: ~0 g

  - Protein: ~0 g

  - Fat: ~4-5 g

  - Sodium: ~30-40 mg

Please keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on portion size and specific brands. If you're looking for precise nutritional information, it's best to consult the packaging or a nutritional database for the exact items you plan to use.