Salami / Salame

What is salami?

Synonymous with Italian meats, salami is a type of cured, dried sausage that originated in Europe. While it has a number of different names depending on the country or region of origin, the word salami originated in Italy and the Italian version of this dried and cured sausage has become iconic. Traditional salami is made by taking meat, including, pork, beef, veal, and poultry, and mixing with garlic, salt, spices, herbs, wine, and vinegar. Like many Italian food products, the exact mixture of ingredients depends on the region where it is made. The raw meat mixture is then left to ferment in a ventilated room before being placed inside casings, where the meat is cured for at least five months.

What are the types of salami?

While every variety of salami has a distinct flavor profile, in general one could describe it as salty, fatty, sharp, savory, and meaty. Just about every region of Italy lays claim to its own particular salame, but the most famous are Genoa, Calabrese, Milano, Varzi, and Abbruzi. Many of these are well known in the U.S. by other familiar names. For instance, pepperoni is actually a type of salami with the addition of spices such as paprika. Soppressata is a type of salami usually associated with southern Italian regions, such as Calabria and Puglia. Each region has its own distinct version of soppressata, a variety of salami made of pork and includes many leftover parts of the pig, such as the head.What are the types of salami?

What dishes is salami used in?

Salami can be used in an incredible number of dishes to add a sharp and briny flavor. Pizza and sandwiches are two of the most popular salami pairings, but this savory cured meat can also be used to make meatballs, risotto, salads, and omelets. It can also be diced and added to red pasta sauces to temper the acidity. Because salami has a very strong and distinctive flavor, it is best used sparingly, so that its flavor can be appreciated along with the other ingredients in the dish. As an appetizer, salami is a popular charcuterie board addition that can be accompanied by cheeses, a sliced baguette, crackers, fruits, and nuts.