Charcuterie Types
Charcuterie (shar-cood-er-ree), or salumi in Italian, refers broadly to prepared meat products, most typically made from pork. Charcuterie is an art form that began centuries ago in order to preserve meats for later consumption. Enjoy the guide below to get a basic understanding of the general types of charcuterie.
Salami
One of the more common encased meats, with a variety of styles differing in heat and spice. Pepperoni, or salami piccante, is among the most well known types of salami. While pork salami is the most popular, beef salamis are available.
Country of Origin: Italy
Jamón Serrano & Jamón Ibérico de Bellota
Jamón Ibérico de Bellota is one of the most expensive cured meats, as it is made from special black-hooved pigs. The hams are aged up to five years to develop their trademark sweet, nutty flavor. Jamón Serrano is a more affordable version made from white pigs and aged for less time.
Country of Origin: Spain
Bresalo
An air-dried, salted beef that has been aged two or three months. A lean meat with a less gamy flavor.
Country of Origin: Spain
Speck
A smoked cured meat that is similar in flavor and texture to bacon, with a milder flavor and firmer texture than prosciutto.
Country of Origin: Italy
Proscuitto
A common type of charcuterie made from pork, prosciutto is silky and versatile, with a prominent umami, or savory, flavor.
Country of Origin: Italy
Mortadella
A cooked sausage made from pork, similar to bologna, with nuts and spices added.
Country of Origin: Italy
Sopressata
This sausage, with an uneven, rustic appearance, ranges in flavor from spicy to sweet, depending on the spices used.
Country of Origin: Italy
Capicola
Also known as Coppa or Capocollo, this tender smoke sausage is produced from pork and features spices and herbs.
Country of Origin: Italy
Chorizo
A sausage notable for the addition of Pimentón de la Vera, a smoked paprika that gives chorizo it's distinctive red color. The type of parprika will make it either spicy (picante) or sweet (dulce).
Country of Origin: Spain
Saucisson Sec
A French-style salami that is thick and rich, similar to pepperoni.
Country of Origin: France
Pâté
Generally comprised of either ground pork, duck, or chicken liver mixed with spices, Pâtés may range from silky smooth to coarser country-style.
Country of Origin: France
Rillettes
Slow cooked meat, typically pork, rabbit, goose, duck or salmon, that is shredded to make a coarser spread. Best served cold.
Country of Origin: France