Pancetta is an Italian salt-cured pork belly meat product, classified as a type of salume (cured meat). It is made by curing pork belly with salt, sugar, and various spices such as black pepper, nutmeg, garlic, and herbs, then drying it for several weeks
. Unlike bacon, pancetta is typically not smoked, which allows the natural pork and spice flavors to stand out without the smoky taste
. There are two main types of pancetta:
- Arrotolata (rolled): Salted and rolled into a tight cylinder, often sliced thin and eaten raw as part of antipasti or in sandwiches. This type is common in northern Italy.
- Stesa (flat): Laid flat, used chopped in recipes or grilled in thick strips, typical of central and southern Italy
Pancetta can be eaten raw when thinly sliced (especially the rolled type) or cooked, and is often used to add depth and richness to soups, pasta dishes, risottos, and salads. It is prized for its rich, salty, and meaty flavor with a texture that can range from chewy to crisp depending on preparation
. In summary, pancetta is Italian cured pork belly, salt-cured and spiced, usually unsmoked, used both raw and cooked to enhance the flavor of many dishes
