Soppressata is a type of Italian salami (which is, a type of sausage) that is typically served sliced. It is a dry, cured salami with distinctive taste and distinctive appearance that’s great for sandwiches or as a charcuterie meat.
Soppressata is made from coarsely chopped pork meat, usually taken from the pig’s head, mixed with salt and spices like peppercorns, black pepper, garlic powder, fennel seeds and sometimes hot pepper.
The mixture is then stuffed into large natural casing made out of animal intestine to form the characteristic cylindrical shape. Soppressata usually has larger pieces of fat in the center, rather that Genoa salami that has fats mixed in throughout.
Sopressata is usually aged for 40+ days and served while still soft (though a cured meat).
Where Did Soppressata Originate From?
Soppressata originated in Southern Italy but has now become a popular Italian cured meat throughout all parts of the country. It is typically served hand sliced, and its unique flavor can be found in many different types of dishes including salads, sandwiches, pizzas (like pepperonis) or pastas.
How Is Soppressata Made?
Traditionally, soppressata is made during a local cultural event, where there is more to the craft. However, commercial-grade soppressata is usually made in a very similar manner to most cured salami.
The meat is minced to obtain a sticky consistency, mixed with salt and spices, stuffed into large natural casing made out of animal intenstine to form the characteristic cylindrical shape.
The salami is then left in a dry room for at least 40 days so that its flavors can develop.
Different Types of Soppressata
There are likely as many variants and types of Sopressata as there are towns in Italy. Most variant revolve around what section of the pig is used along with the exact variety of spices, and the material used to process & cure the meat.
Soppressata di Calabria is the only variant that has Protected designation of origin status from the Italian government. In other words, only soppressata made in Calabria can claim that label (unlike, say, “Italian” meatballs made in America).
Soppressata made in Northern Italy will likely use different parts (though still not prime cuts) of the pig. Different towns will also use novel materials to dry & cure the meat.
What Does Soppressata Taste Like?
Soppressata typically has an intense taste that makes it stand out among Italian sausages (almost like a Hungarian sausage), especially compared to milder bologna or mortadella. The pork meat used is usually marbled or rich in texture, which gives it a distinct appearance.
How To Store & Serve Soppressata
Soppressata is typically served sliced and fresh. It can be eaten on its own, but it is perhaps best enjoyed with other classic Italian food dishes such as salads, sandwiches, cheese, pizzas or pastas – or on a charcuterie board!
Once sliced, it is best to store in the refrigerator in a good meat storage container to prevent food-borne illness. Each sopressata is different in curing and preparation. Be sure to consult the packaging and / or your deli along with food safety guidelines for safe storage.
Recipes That Use Soppressata
Soppressata is used in many different recipes such as sandwiches, salads & pasta.
Here’s a few famous examples:
- Classic Italian Sandwich Recipe: From the country that brought you this cured meat, prepare an authentic Italian sandwich!
- Soppressata Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette Recipe: Enjoy the sweet & savory flavors of this salad recipe.
Where To Buy Soppressata
Soppressata is available in many well-stocked grocery stores or specialty delis, though for a truly authentic taste, you may need to visit an Italian market.
If you’re looking for something different to try out on your next sandwich, consider buying some Sopressata! Since it is cured, sopressata will also ship well from online retailers. Here are some of the bestselling options on Amazon.
- A favorite in our Brooklyn store
- Made with the Finest Cuts of Pork. A Perfect Blend of Crushed Hot Pepper and Sweet Paprika.
- Hand Crafted in Brooklyn New York. Whole Pieces Not Sliced.
- Served Sliced With Cheese, Taralli and some Wine For a Trip to Italy Without Plane Fare!
- Weights are Approximate. 2 Sticks Approximately 1.5 Pounds
- Frank and Sal Frank and Sal Sweet Soppressata. A customer Favorite!
- This is For a Whole Sausage. Not Sliced.
- Hand Crafted in Brooklyn New York. Whole Pieces Not Sliced. Served Sliced With Cheese, Taralli and some Wine For a Trip to Italy Without Plane Fare!
- Weights are Approximate. 2 Sticks Approximately 1.5 Pounds
- Made with only select cuts of pork
- Very lean and spiced with nutmeg and whole peppercorns
- Warm taste with white wine flavor
- Excellent partnered with a variety of cheeses like asiago and goat cheese
- Certified gluten free
- Uncured salami with sangiovese red wine
- This salami is perfectly seasoned with organic garlic and red wine
- Inspired by the Veneto region
- 100% U.S raised pork
- No antibiotics ever
- Exclusively selected and passionately sourced from farmers and producers around the world
- No hydrogenated fats, high-fructose corn syrup or added MSG
- Third-party audited and traceable to farm for cheeses
