Italian charcuterie, also known as salumi, is a true treasure in the Italian kitchen. I must admit that these delicacies are an almost irresistible temptation for me, and one of the reasons why I always weigh a few kilos more when I return to Denmark after a trip to Italy! Let's take a taste journey through Italy and explore the 10 best salumi, each with their own unique character and history, which can be found in every Italian supermarket.

1. Parma ham

Our journey begins in Emilia Romagna with the iconic Prosciutto di Parma. This air-dried ham is known for its delicate and slightly salty flavor, achieved through a careful maturation process of up to 24 months. Parma ham is perfect to be served with fresh figs or as part of an antipasti platter with olives and artichokes.

2. Salame Emiliano

Italian salami from the Parma area is a true classic. Made from lean pork and seasoned with black pepper and garlic, this salami has a rich and complex flavor. I love enjoying it with a slice of cheese and a glass of Amarone red wine – a perfect combination of flavor and texture.

3. Parma Cup

Coppa di Parma is made from the neck of the pig, seasoned and air-dried to achieve a juicy and flavorful experience. Its fragrant notes of smoke and spices make it ideal to be served with grilled bread and a drizzle of balsamic.

4. Cheekbone

Guanciale, made from pork cheek, is essential in dishes like pasta alla carbonara and pasta amatriciana. Its rich flavor and fatty texture add a depth that makes every bite unforgettable. A classic pasta alla carbonara made with guanciale, eggs, and Parmesan cheese is an unrivaled taste experience.

5. Pancetta

Pancetta is Italian bacon that is salted and seasoned with herbs before maturing. It can be either rolled or flat and is often used to add depth of flavour to dishes like risotto or simply fried crisp and served as a snack. Try using it in a creamy pasta dish with peas and Parmigiano Reggiano – a real treat.

6. Mortadella di Bologna

Mortadella di Bologna is a large, mild sausage made from finely chopped pork and seasoned with spices and small cubes of fat. It has a soft and rich texture and is perfect in a sandwich with pesto and tomatoes. Or try it diced and served with pickled vegetables as a light snack.

7. Bresaola of Valtellina

Bresaola is an air-dried beef delicacy from Valtellina in Lombardy. It is tender and low in fat, with a subtle flavor that is best enjoyed thinly sliced ​​with a little lemon, olive oil and arugula. Bresaola is also excellent in a salad with parmesan flakes and toasted pine nuts.

8. Culatello di Zibello

Culatello di Zibello is an exclusive delicacy from Parma, made from the best part of the pork shank. This salume has an intense flavor and a delicate, almost buttery texture. Try it with freshly baked focaccia and a drizzle of olive oil – a simple yet elegant taste experience.

9. 'Nduja

From southern Italy, specifically Calabria, comes 'Nduja, a spicy, spreadable sausage made from pork and chili. It's perfect for spreading on bread or adding a kick to pasta sauces. I love using 'Nduja in a tomato sauce for pasta – it gives the sauce a deep, spicy flavor that makes any pasta dish unforgettable.

10. Capocollo di Martina Franca

We finish with Capocollo di Martina Franca, which comes from my area and is a favorite of many – myself included. This delicacy from Puglia is made from pork, seasoned with salt, pepper and herbs, then smoked with local wood. It has a rich and complex flavor that makes it perfect for an antipasti plate or simply with some bread and cheese.

Tradition and Enjoyment

Each of these salumi represents a part of Italy's rich culinary traditions. They are best enjoyed in good company, perhaps with some bread, cheese and a glass of wine. Whether it's a simple sandwich with Mortadella di Bologna or an elegant antipasti with slices of Italian salami , Italian salumi is a feast for the taste buds. A good glass of Chianti Classico is always an excellent accompaniment to these delicacies.

So the next time you need to impress guests or treat yourself, remember that Italian charcuterie is always a good choice.

Buon appetito!