Types of Cured Meats That You Should Try

If you want to add some new and exciting flavors to your meat repertoire, you should try cured meats. Cured meats have been treated with salt, sugar, or a combination of the two to preserve them. This treatment also gives them their characteristic flavor and texture. There are many types of cured meats, each with its unique flavor profile. This article will discuss some of the most interesting types of cured meats and give tips on how to cook them.

1. Biltong 

Biltong is a type of cured meat that originated in South Africa. It is made from beef, or game meat marinated in a spice blend and then air-dried. Biltong can be eaten raw or cooked, and it goes well with savory and sweet flavors.

If you want to try biltong, you can easily make it at home. Just marinate beef or game meat in a spice blend of your choice, and then air-dry it using a dehydrator or an oven with the door slightly open. Or, even easier, you can order biltong and other cured meats online from specialty shops. Biltong is a great option if you're looking for a healthy, high-protein snack. It's also perfect for those who are on the go and need a quick and easy snack to fill them up. You can eat it with your hands, chop it up, and add it to salads or pasta dishes. 

2. Bresaola

Bresaola is a type of cured meat that is made from beef. The beef is first salted and then air-dried for a few weeks. The result is very flavorful and tender meat, perfect for slicing and eating on its own. Bresaola can also be used in salads, pizzas, or pasta. If you want to try bresaola, we recommend you slice it very thinly, which will help maximize the meat's flavor and texture. You can also drizzle bresaola with olive oil or vinegar or add it to other dishes for an extra burst of flavor. 

Bresaola is an excellent option for those looking for something different than the typical cured meats. The flavor is unique, and the texture is very tender. 

3. Prosciutto

Now a classic one - prosciutto. It's a dry-cured ham that is usually thinly sliced and served uncooked. It's made from the hind leg of a pig or wild boar and cured for around 12 months. The result is a sweet, slightly nutty flavor with a melt-in-your-mouth texture. Prosciutto is typically eaten on its own as an appetizer or added to salads, pizzas, or pasta dishes.

Prosciutto is an excellent option if you're looking for slightly sweeter cured meat, and the curing process gives it a unique flavor that pairs well with other ingredients. And, because it's thinly sliced, it's also very easy to eat.

4. Capicola

Capicola is a type of ham that is made from pork. Like prosciutto, it is dry-cured and thinly sliced. However, the curing process for capicola is much shorter, only around three months, resulting in a less intense flavor that is slightly sweet and salty. Capicola can be eaten on its own or added to salads, pizzas, or pasta dishes. 

Similarly to prosciutto, a capicola is an excellent option if you're looking for something that is thinly sliced and easy to eat. The shorter curing process also gives it a less intense flavor, which some people prefer.

5. Smoked Bacon

Who doesn't like bacon? Smoked bacon is one of the most popular types of cured meats, and it is made from pork belly that has been fixed and then smoked. The result is a delicious, salty, and slightly sweet flavor with a crispy texture. 

There are many different ways to enjoy smoked bacon. It can be eaten on its own as a snack or added to sandwiches and salads. It can also be used in recipes, such as bacon-wrapped dates or scallops. However, keep in mind that smoked bacon is high in fat and sodium, so it should be eaten in moderation. 

6. Chorizo

Chorizo is a sausage made from pork, beef, or turkey. It is seasoned with spices, such as paprika, and then cured. The result is a flavorful and slightly spicy sausage that can be eaten on its own or added to dishes. Chorizo is typically used in Spanish and Mexican cuisine. 

Chorizo is an excellent option for those who are looking for something flavorful and slightly spicy. It pairs well with other ingredients and can be used in various dishes.

7. Lonza

Have you heard of Lonza? If not, it's time to try this delicious cured meat. Lonza is made from pork loin that has been cured and then air-dried. The result is a salty, slightly sweet, and very flavorful meat. If you're looking for something new to try, add Lonza to your list. You can try it on its own or add it to salads, pizzas, or pasta dishes.

Lonza is an excellent option for those who are looking for something new to try. It's flavorful and versatile and can be used in various dishes. Give it a try the next time you're looking for something new to eat.

8. Droëwors

If you're a fan of sausage, then you'll love droëwors. This South African sausage is made from beef or lamb and then dried. The result is a flavorful and slightly chewy sausage that can be eaten on its own or added to dishes.

Droëwors is an excellent option for those looking for something new and different. The sausage is flavorful and slightly chewy, making it a great addition to any dish. Give it a try the next time you're looking for something new to eat.

Cured meats are a delicious and easy way to add flavor to your dishes. There are many different types of cured meats, so there's sure to be one that you'll love. If you're looking for something new to try, add one of these meats to your list, and you won't be disappointed.