Pancetta is made from Italian-style cured pork meat. The cured meat is called salumi, and it can be made from other meats as well. Most people consider salumi the Italian version of charcuterie because it’s produced similarly. Being seasoned and salted pork meat, pancetta has a distinct pork flavor, much like bacon but without the smokiness.
Pancetta can be used to add depth and flavor to most soups and pasta. It is also often served on a sandwich. Two major types of pancetta include the ‘arrotolata,’ which is cut in thin slices, and the ‘stesa,’ which is often chopped into many recipes.
Pancetta’s nutrient content is identical to pork, being rich in protein. It is also high in sodium due to its salt-cured preparation.
What is the best substitute for pancetta? The best substitute for pancetta is prosciutto. Prosciutto is made from the back of pig legs. It has a light ink color and a smooth buttery texture, which contrasts with pancetta’s silk texture. Besides these, prosciutto and pancetta are very similar. Both can be enjoyed as is or added to recipes for depth and texture.
Overview of Pancetta
Pancetta is an Italian cuisine with lots of cooking applications. The meat is gotten from the belly or underside of a pig and seasoned with salt, spices, and other ingredients. The main difference between pancetta and bacon is their method of preparation. Bacon is usually smoked, cured and then cooked before it’s fit for consumption.
Pancetta is an excellent source of protein, vitamins, as well as minerals like Iron and Zinc. It is also rich in sodium, thanks to the salt. You can use pancetta for diverse recipes, from bolognese sauce to whole wheat pasta carbonara and even pancetta salad.
Pancetta is readily available at most supermarkets and grocery stores. It has a shelf life of about 12 months if kept in the packaging. It can last up to three weeks with refrigeration after opening.
Why Replace Pancetta?
- You can’t find it: Even though pancetta is a large part of many Italian dishes, you may not have heard of it because it’s not as common as bacon and ham. These, and other substitutes, are more readily available and more easily recognized than pancetta itself.
- You want a smoky flavor: Pancetta is primarily prepared by curing with salt and spices, and you can taste all that in the final product. If you’re looking for a different flavor, smoked meats might be better for you.
- You don’t want pork: Pork is one of the most delicious meats out there, but it can be unhealthy if consumed in large quantities. For example, pigs carry several parasites that can be harmful to humans. You may also be avoiding pork because of the high cholesterol or your vegetarian diet.
- You want a cheaper alternative: The art of cooking often involves finding the best possible ingredients at the best prices. While pancetta isn’t ridiculously expensive, there are cheaper alternatives that add as much flavor and depth to the recipe as pancetta itself.
Best Substitute Options for Pancetta
Best Overall Substitute for Pancetta: Prosciutto
Prosciutto is the overall best substitute for pancetta. They both come from pork and have similar tastes and nutrition benefits. Prosciutto is prepared by curing in salt and leaving it to dry-age at a controlled temperature for 14 to 36 months. Its sweet taste and buttery texture come from this elaborate preparation.
Prosciutto is best served in paper-thin slices, although your recipe may call for a different preparation. Prosciutto is also excellent for adding flavor to pasta, pizza, and other dishes. Some people prefer to pair it with fruits, cheese, or wine.
Best Pork Substitute: Smoked Turkey
Smoked turkey is perfect for people trying to avoid the risks of pork. It’s also great if you can’t have pork for religious reasons. Smoked turkey is more or less the avian equivalent of ham. It is tender, delicious, and has a smoky flavor when prepared.
Smoked turkey also happens to be rich in vitamins, potassium and calories. Its smoky flavor blends well with most pancetta dishes. Smoked turkey is also great for other recipes, like sandwiches and pasta. If you have difficulty finding smoked turkey, other smoked birds, like chicken or goose, will do just as well.
Best Substitute for a Smoky Flavor: Bacon and Smoked Ham
Bacon and smoked ham both have a savory smoky flavor, adding some variety to your pancetta recipes. They are excellent substitutes since they all come from pork. And even though both types of meat are known for different recipes, they can work just as well for soups and sandwiches.
Smoked ham and bacon are also much cheaper than pancetta since it’s not cut. This makes it the go-to option if you’re on a budget. Like pancetta and prosciutto, you can also eat smoked ham raw or pair it with wines or fruits. Finally, smoked ham has a long shelf life, thanks to the smoking.
Best Substitute for Meat Fillings: Salami
Salami is a pork variety most popular in Europe. It’s an excellent substitute for pancetta because it has a similar taste and texture. The process of preparing salami includes air drying, which both ferments it and extends its shelf life.
Salami goes great with many Italian dishes, including pizza, pasta, and sandwiches. Salami is also great for people who can’t eat pork because you can get beef and veal salami, depending on where you are.
Best Substitute for Vegans and Vegetarians: Vegan Salami
Vegan salami tastes very similar to salami, but it’s 100% meat-free. It’s perfect for vegans and vegetarians who want to enjoy Italian recipes without meat. Vegan salami is made from wheat gluten, paprika, fennel seeds, and a host of other ingredients. So unlike pork, it has a spectrum of nutritional benefits.
Vegan salami will work with most pancetta and Italian recipes. If you can’t find or make vegan salami, some smoked vegetables can also be great substitutes. As expected, vegan salami won’t be as meaty as other substitutes. But it’s the best option for a vegetarian recipe.