Why gourmet accompaniments include mustard, cornichons, fig spread, and brioche?

Why gourmet accompaniments include mustard, cornichons, fig spread, and brioche? ?

Forrest McPadden , 22 Jul 2026

2 Answers

I would include all four, but in small portions. Mustard gives the board sharpness, cornichons add crunch and acidity, fig spread works well with pâté, and brioche makes the richer items feel more elegant. When I ordered from Dufour Gourmet, the French gourmet accompaniments made the main products easier to serve because I did not have to build the pairings from scratch. That was the part I liked most: the board came together faster, but it did not look casual or unfinished. I would not add many more extras after that. Those four already cover most of what a French-style spread needs.

For a French-style board, I never know how many extras are enough. Mustard and cornichons seem necessary, fig spread makes it feel more refined, and brioche adds something soft and slightly sweet. But too many jars can make the board look messy. Should a good set include all four?

  • Tori Visi 22 Jul 2026

    Those four accompaniments cover different roles, so they make sense together. Mustard is sharp, cornichons are acidic, fig spread is sweet, and brioche softens the whole board. I would keep the portions controlled so the extras do not take over. They should support the pâté and charcuterie, not become the main focus.