ITALIAN HAM-PROSCIUTTO
One of the most well-known types of Italian ham is prosciutto. Prosciutto is a type of dry-cured ham that is typically made from the hind leg of a pig. The meat is salted and left to cure for several months, during which time it loses moisture and develops a deep, rich flavor.There are two main types of prosciutto: prosciutto crudo (raw) and prosciutto cotto (cooked). Prosciutto crudo is the most common and is usually served thinly sliced and uncooked, often as part of an antipasti platter. Prosciutto cotto, on the other hand, is cooked and is similar to traditional ham.
Other types of Italian ham include:
Culatello: a type of ham made from the most tender part of the pig's leg, which is salted, cured, and aged for at least a year. It has a delicate, buttery flavor and is typically served thinly sliced.Speck: a type of smoked ham that is made in the South Tyrol region of Italy. It is typically made from the hind leg of a pig and is seasoned with juniper berries and other spices before being smoked.Cotto ham: a type of cooked ham that is similar to prosciutto cotto, but is made from the leg of the pig instead of the shoulder. It is often used in sandwiches and other cooked dishes.
Italian ham is commonly enjoyed as part of antipasti, in sandwiches or paninis, or as a topping for pizza.
